CSX Corp. said Sept. 29 that President and CEO Joe Hinrichs has left the company, with former Linde CEO Steve Angel appointed as his replacement.
Hinrichs, a former executive with Ford Motor Co., joined CSX three years ago.
The Jacksonville-based railroad company gave no reason for Hinrichs’ departure in a news release.
Hinrichs had recently come under fire from activist investment firm Ancora Holdings Group, which called for his resignation.
With Union Pacific Corp. and Norfolk Southern Corp. announcing a merger agreement in July to create a transcontinental railroad, Ancora has called for CSX to seek a merger of similar size to remain competitive.
However, CSX has announced several agreements in recent weeks to provide connecting services with other railroads, and Hinrichs said cooperation between major railroads makes mergers unnecessary.
Analysts have generally praised freight service improvements at CSX and have expressed optimism about the company’s prospects.''
Linde plc is a global industrial gases and engineering company that says it operates in more than 80 countries. The United Kingdom-based company reported revenue of $16.6 billion in the first half of 2025.
CSX said Angel has more than 45 years of experience leading large public companies.
He served as CEO of Linde from 2018 to 2022 after serving as CEO of Praxair Inc. from 2007 to 2018, when it merged with Linde.
“He is a visionary in creating long-term value and an expert in guiding companies through significant transformation. The Board conducted a very targeted process, and Steve was the clear choice to lead CSX,” CSX Chairman John Zillmer said in the news release.
“My top priorities will be to ensure the safety of the railroad and our employees, deliver reliable service to our customers, and increase value for our shareholders. I look forward to working in partnership with the team and the Board as we continue to build on CSX’s strong momentum, advancing key initiatives aimed at driving long-term growth,” Angel said in the release.
“I am proud of the progress we have made in improving performance, strengthening customer relationships, and building a culture centered on safety and collaboration,” Hinrichs said in the release.
“I leave with pride for all that we have accomplished together and have full confidence that under Steve and the Board’s leadership, the Company will continue to grow stronger, delivering lasting value to all our stakeholders,” he said.