Richard J. Schnieders served as CEO of Sysco Corporation from 2004 until his resignation in 2009. His leadership was marked by a focus on performance-based pay, aligning executive rewards with company success. During his tenure, he earned significant bonuses; for...

Richard J. Schnieders served as CEO of Sysco Corporation from 2004 until his resignation in 2009. His leadership was marked by a focus on performance-based pay, aligning executive rewards with company success. During his tenure, he earned significant bonuses; for instance, in 2008, his total compensation was about $11.99 million, and a large part came from stock options and bonuses tied to the company’s earnings growth. He made an impressive impact with a cash bonus of $3.93 million in 2007, which highlighted the company’s strong performance during that time. His strategic approach involved setting clear performance metrics based on earnings per share and overall company profitability. Interestingly, he recognized the importance of his role and positioned himself for future opportunities post-ceo life, indicating a focus on long-term impact rather than just immediate gains. Schnieders' career is notable for his ability to overcome challenges and deliver results, steering Sysco through market fluctuations and competitive pressures. After stepping down, he maintained his influence as the Chairman of the Board until June 2009, showcasing his commitment to the company even as he transitioned from the top executive role.