D.E. Shaw owns a stake of more than $1 billion in Sysco, two people familiar with the matter said, as the Houston-based foodservice distributor refreshes its board and accelerates an artificial intelligence strategy. Sysco will appoint Shipium Chief Executive Officer Jason Murray and former Aramark Chief Financial Officer Tom Ondrof effective September 1, expanding the board to 13 directors. The appointments support initiatives spanning supply chain planning, demand forecasting, inventory management, customer service and logistics. Sysco expects $100 million in fiscal 2027 savings from AI, automation and process improvements, while its planned acquisition of Jetro Restaurant Depot is expected to require a capital raise in which D. E. Shaw expects to participate. The company is seeking faster growth and better operating performance, but its shares have risen less than 4% over the past 12 months amid higher food and transportation costs and budget-conscious consumers.