CSX Corp. announced Thursday that its board of directors has appointed Steve Angel as president and chief executive officer, effective Sept. 28.
Angel succeeds Joe Hinrichs, who has departed from the company as president, CEO and board member. Angel will also join the CSX board of directors.
The leadership change comes as CSX maintains strong operating performance, with the company still expecting to deliver full-year volume growth.
"We are excited to welcome Steve as our new CEO. He is a visionary in creating long-term value and an expert in guiding companies through significant transformation," said John Zillmer, chairman of CSX.
Angel brings more than 45 years of executive experience, most recently serving as CEO of Linde plc from 2018 to 2022 and as its chairman since 2022. Prior to Linde, he led Praxair as chairman, president and CEO from 2007 to 2018.
During his leadership, companies under Angel's direction generated total shareholder returns of 219% at Linde and 257% at Praxair. His early career included 22 years at General Electric, where he worked directly with locomotive and rail operations.
"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," Angel said.
Zillmer thanked Hinrichs for his leadership over the past three years, noting his contributions to improving operations and strengthening customer relationships.
