United Rentals, Inc. announced that its board of directors has appointed Matthew Flannery, the company's president and chief operating officer, to become chief executive officer, while retaining the role as president. Additionally, the board has appointed Michael Kneeland, the current chief executive officer, to become non-executive chairman. Bobby Griffin, a 10-year member of the board and chairman of the Strategy Committee, will become lead independent director.

The appointments become effective at the company's annual meeting of stockholders on May 8, 2019, when Chairman Jenne Britell and CEO Michael Kneeland will step down from their respective positions. Dr. Britell, Mr. Kneeland and Mr. Flannery have led the evolution and growth of United Rentals for more than a decade.