Interim Head Of Waste Management

Vivid Resourcing Ltd; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading waste management company seeks an experienced Interim Head of Waste Management to lead services optimization across the county. Responsibilities include overseeing recycling centres, managing a £90m budget, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. The ideal candidate has senior leadership experience and a strong understanding of waste policy and contractor management. Ready to make an immediate impact? Apply now.

Qualifications

• Extensive senior leadership experience in waste management.
• Strong understanding of emerging waste and resources policy.
• Proven track record in managing multi-million-pound budgets.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operation of recycling centres and transfer stations.
• Ensure Health & Safety compliance.
• Oversee financial management of waste budgets.
• Manage closed landfill sites in compliance with regulations.
• Support a team of direct reports and 200+ operational staff.

Skills

Chartered Waste Manager (MCIWM)

Strong knowledge of waste policy

Operational understanding of waste services

Budget management skills

People management

Excellent communication skills

Compliance with legislation

Contractor management

Job description

Interim Head of Waste Management

We are seeking an experienced, forward‑thinking Interim Head of Waste Management to join a collaborative senior leadership team. This role will lead the optimisation of waste services across the county—driving environmental improvements, enhancing efficiency and delivering high‑quality, compliant local services.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the safe and efficient daily operation of recycling centres, transfer stations and the haulage fleet.
• Ensure full Health & Safety compliance for staff, contractors and the public.
• Oversee robust financial management of waste budgets (c. £90m), including savings targets and forecasting.
• Provide expert input into major procurements, ensuring operational excellence.
• Manage closed landfill sites in line with regulatory requirements and maximise associated revenue opportunities.
• Work closely with contract management colleagues to ensure major contractors deliver high‑quality services.
• Lead and support a team of direct reports and 200+ operational staff, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities.
• Engage effectively with Waste Collection bodies to provide strategic disposal and treatment guidance.
• Deliver assigned projects on time, within budget and to the expected standard.

About You

• Chartered Waste Manager (MCIWM) with extensive senior leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of current and emerging waste and resources policy and legislation.
• Deep operational understanding across recycling, transfer, treatment and disposal services, with experience managing complex waste contracts.
• Proven ability to manage multi‑million‑pound budgets.
• Strong people manager committed to staff development.
• Excellent communicator able to influence at all levels.
• Highly skilled in ensuring compliance with environmental permitting and Health & Safety legislation.
• Track record of effective contractor management and delivering value for money.

If you are a strategic, hands‑on leader ready to make an immediate impact, we'd welcome the opportunity to speak with you.