Role Overview for VP of Waste Operations – Dallas, TX
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a leading environmental services and waste management company in their search for a dynamic and visionary Vice President of Waste Operations. Based in the strategic hub of Dallas, Texas, this executive leadership role is pivotal to the continued growth and operational excellence of the company’s regional activities. The VP of Waste Operations will assume full P&L responsibility and provide strategic direction for all aspects of the waste management lifecycle, including collection, hauling, transfer station management, landfill operations, and recycling initiatives. This is a rare opportunity for a seasoned operations leader to make a significant impact on a major market, driving profitability, sustainability, and safety while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will be a results-oriented leader with a deep understanding of the waste industry’s complexities, from logistical challenges to regulatory landscapes. You will be responsible for translating high-level corporate strategy into actionable, on-the-ground operational plans that enhance efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and ensure the highest standards of environmental compliance and employee safety. You will lead a large, diverse team of managers, drivers, and technicians, inspiring them to achieve ambitious performance goals. This role requires a unique blend of financial acumen, operational expertise, and transformational leadership to navigate the evolving demands of the waste management industry and solidify our client’s position as a market leader in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Key Responsibilities of VP of Waste Operations – Dallas, TX
The Vice President of Waste Operations will have a broad and challenging scope of responsibilities, overseeing the entire operational framework for the Dallas region. Success in this role will be measured by improvements in safety, financial performance, operational efficiency, and team development.
Strategic and Operational Leadership
- Develop and execute a comprehensive regional operations strategy that aligns with corporate objectives, focusing on market growth, profitability, and long-term sustainability.
- Provide decisive leadership to a team of District Managers, Operations Managers, and functional support staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
- Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) across all operational areas, including safety (TRIR, LTIR), efficiency (cost per ton, miles per gallon), customer service (service completion rates), and financial metrics (EBITDA, margin).
- Champion a culture of safety above all else, ensuring that all operations adhere to strict company policies and OSHA regulations. Drive proactive safety initiatives, training programs, and incident investigation protocols.
- Direct all collection operations for municipal, commercial, and industrial clients, ensuring optimal routing, fleet utilization, and service reliability.
Financial Management and P&L Ownership
- Assume full P&L responsibility for the Dallas region, developing annual budgets, monthly forecasts, and long-range financial plans.
- Rigorously analyze financial statements and operational data to identify trends, pinpoint areas for cost reduction, and uncover opportunities for revenue enhancement.
- Lead capital expenditure planning and justification for new equipment, technology, and facility upgrades to support growth and improve efficiency.
- Collaborate with the sales and business development teams to price new contracts competitively and profitably, ensuring operational capabilities can meet service level agreements.
- Implement and manage robust cost-control programs across all departments, including labor, maintenance, fuel, and disposal, without compromising safety or service quality.
Compliance, Safety, and Environmental Stewardship
- Ensure absolute compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations governing waste management, transportation, and disposal. This includes deep familiarity with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, as well as DOT and state-level environmental quality rules.
- Oversee the management of all post-collection facilities, including transfer stations, material recovery facilities (MRFs), and landfills, ensuring they operate safely, efficiently, and in full environmental compliance.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with regulatory agency officials, acting as the company’s primary operational contact during inspections and audits.
- Promote and advance the company’s sustainability goals by championing recycling programs, exploring waste-to-energy opportunities, and minimizing the environmental footprint of all operations.
Team Development and Talent Management
- Attract, retain, and develop top-tier talent within the operations organization.
- Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for direct reports and high-potential employees.
- Establish clear performance expectations and conduct regular performance reviews, holding the team accountable for achieving their goals.
- Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages employee engagement, open communication, and a sense of shared purpose.
- Implement succession planning to ensure leadership continuity and a strong pipeline of future leaders for the organization.
Requirements for the VP of Waste Operations – Dallas, TX
The successful candidate will be a proven leader with extensive experience in a complex, asset-heavy industrial service environment. We are seeking an individual with the strategic foresight to plan for the future and the tactical expertise to manage day-to-day challenges effectively.
Educational & Professional Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
- A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive leadership experience in the waste management, environmental services, transportation, or related industrial operations sector.
- At least 7 years of experience in a senior management role (e.g., Director, General Manager, or VP) with full P&L responsibility for a business unit or region with revenues exceeding $50 million.
- Demonstrated track record of success in managing large, distributed workforces, including both union and non-union environments.
- Proven experience in fleet management, logistics, and route optimization is essential.
Skills and Competencies
Financial Acumen
Deep understanding of financial statements, budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning. Ability to use financial data to drive strategic decisions.
Strategic Thinking
Ability to see the big picture, anticipate future trends, and develop long-term plans to achieve competitive advantage.
Leadership and Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate large teams. Capable of building consensus and driving change across the organization.
Regulatory Knowledge
In-depth knowledge of EPA, OSHA, and DOT regulations relevant to the waste and transportation industries.
Analytical Skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Communication
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to a variety of audiences, from frontline employees to executive leadership.
Negotiation Skills
Proven ability to negotiate effectively with customers, vendors, and municipal partners.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain the best talent in the industry. This includes:
- Competitive Base Salary
- Lucrative Annual Performance-Based Bonus Plan
- Long-Term Incentive Program (Equity/Stock Options)
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Robust 401(k) Retirement Plan with a generous company match
- Company Vehicle or Vehicle Allowance
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Schedule
- Relocation Assistance for qualified candidates
- Life Insurance and Disability Coverage
- Opportunities for continued professional development and executive education
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this critical leadership position. If you are a visionary operations leader with a passion for excellence and a proven track record in the waste management industry, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and accomplishments. Qualified candidates will be contacted by a JRG Partners recruiter for a confidential discussion. Explore more executive opportunities in our Waste & Environmental Services Executive Search Firm practice area to see how we connect top talent with industry leaders.
