USA Truck has announced the appointment of Russell Overla to the position of executive vice president, Truckload Operations and Jeff Lester to the role of executive vice president, Safety and Risk Management. The two bring a combined 40 years of transportation industry experience to USA Truck's executive management team.

In the course of his 15-year career, Overla has spent time with several industry leaders, including LinkAmerica, JBS Carriers, National Freight and Arnold. He has developed a hands-on management style through holding a variety of positions, starting as a Load Planner and progressing into management through Customer Service and Planning, Regional Sales and Operations. At USA Truck, Overla oversees fleet operations, fleet maintenance, driver recruiting and retention, and customer service.

Lester brings 25 years' experience to USA Truck, including a vast array of expertise in safety, compliance, risk management, security, insurance and independent contractor programs. He was most recently at Greatwide Logistics, and has also worked for FedEx and Ryder. Lester, who will serve as USA Truck's chief risk officer, holds a master's degree in safety management. At USA Truck, Lester oversees safety, insurance, claims, compliance, orientation and the student driver program.