Waste Management Specialist

Seven Resourcing

Chelmsford

On-site

GBP 70,000 - 90,000

Part time

14 days+

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Job summary

A leading staffing agency is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Waste Management to oversee operations across Essex, managing significant contracts and ensuring compliance with a strong focus on sustainability. You will lead a dynamic team, drive efficiencies, and influence policy in a high-profile role. This temporary position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact in the waste management sector.

Qualifications

Proven success in senior waste service leadership roles.
Strong understanding of waste and resources policy, legislation, and operational best practices.
Experience managing large-scale waste contracts and multi-million-pound budgets.

Responsibilities

Oversee waste operations ensuring efficiency and service delivery.
Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation.
Manage budgets of approximately £90 million per annum.

Skills

Time management

Leadership

Communication

Strategic planning

Financial Oversight

Education

Chartered Waste Manager (MCIWM) status or equivalent

Job description

Interim Head of Waste Management

Closing Date: 2 November 2025

Seven Resourcing is seeking an Interim Head of Waste Management to take on a major leadership position within one of the UK’s largest and most complex Waste Disposal Authorities. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a high-profile, strategic environment.

Managing services that process over 650,000 tonnes of waste annually across Essex, you’ll lead operations that include 21 Recycling Centres, 4 Transfer Stations, and multiple closed landfill sites, supported by a workforce of more than 200 operational staff.

You’ll oversee multi-million-pound contracts with a combined value exceeding £1 billion, covering all aspects of residual waste treatment, recycling, reuse, and haulage. This role demands strategic oversight of commercial arrangements, contract performance, and compliance within a high-risk, regulated sector.

Working as part of a collaborative senior leadership team, you will drive efficiency, innovation, and environmental excellence, supporting Essex’s commitment to sustainability and a low-carbon, circular economy.

As Interim Head of Waste Management, you will:

Collaborate with senior leaders to deliver continuous improvement and innovation across waste services.
Drive environmental and financial efficiencies, maintaining high-quality service delivery to residents.
Provide strategic direction for waste operations and influence local policy to achieve long-term sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Management: Oversee the safe and efficient running of recycling centres, transfer stations, and the haulage fleet.
Health & Safety: Ensure compliance and safety for officers, contractors, and the public.
Financial Control: Manage budgets of approximately £90 million per annum, ensuring strong financial governance and forecasting.
Major Procurements: Support and advise on key waste management procurements and contracts.
Closed Landfill Sites: Manage regulatory compliance and maximise potential revenue streams.
Contract Management: Monitor major contractors to ensure compliance, performance, and value for money.
Leadership: Directly manage a team of 7 and oversee 200+ operational staff, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with the 12 Waste Collection Authorities across Essex to deliver effective disposal and treatment solutions.
Project Delivery: Lead assigned projects, ensuring timely delivery within budget and scope.

We’re looking for an experienced and dynamic leader with:

Chartered Waste Manager (MCIWM) status or equivalent professional qualification.
Proven success in senior waste service leadership roles.
Strong understanding of waste and resources policy, legislation, and operational best practice.
Experience managing large-scale waste contracts and multi-million-pound budgets.
Excellent people management skills and a commitment to staff development.
Clear and confident communication skills across all levels of the organisation.
A proactive approach to compliance with environmental permitting and health and safety legislation.
A track record of achieving value for money through effective contractor management.

Why Work with Seven Resourcing?

At Seven Resourcing, we connect skilled professionals with meaningful opportunities where they can make a real difference. With nearly a decade of industry expertise, over 3,000 five-star reviews, and a reputation for award-winning service, we provide continuous support, career development, and access to rewarding roles that align with your experience and aspirations.

Base pay range