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
- Direct message the job poster from Seven Resourcing
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Temporary
Job function
- Public Relations
Industries
- Staffing and Recruiting
- Air, Water, and Waste Program Management
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