Bristol Waste Company, the refuse collection, cleaning and recycling firm, has appointed Richard Williams as its new managing director.
The firm said Bristol-born Richard, pictured, brought a wealth of expertise, experience and commitment to the role having held senior leadership positions in a range of companies, including discount supermarket group Aldi, where he worked for nearly 20 years, nine of them as its property director. 
He has also worked in the retirement and healthcare property sectors.
Bristol Waste Company, which is owned by Bristol City Council, said his experience, proven track record of success and passion for sustainability, coupled with his deep-rooted connection to the city, equipped him with a unique perspective on business and made him ideal for the job.
His appointment follows on from turnaround work by outgoing interim MD Dave Knight at the firm, whose services range from collecting and recycling domestic and business waste, cleaning Bristol’s streets and running its recycling centres, and removing graffiti.
The firm also grits the city’s roads in the winter. 
Richard’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Bristol Waste Company, which is poised to play a pivotal role in addressing the environmental challenges facing the city as it looks to become carbon neutral and climate resilient by 2030.
Under his leadership, it will continue to be at the forefront of sustainability, delivering vital services to the city and providing value for money to residents and stakeholders.
Richard said: “I am pleased to be joining Bristol Waste Company at such an exciting time.
“Bristol has held the crown for top English core city for recycling for eight years, which is a phenomenal achievement, but I think we can take it even further.
“I have children and, like a lot of parents, I often think about the planet we’re leaving to them. If we can reduce waste, reuse as much as possible and recycle everything we can, then we’re on our way to building a better planet for the next generation, and for ourselves too.”
As managing director, Richard will oversee the company’s operations, strategic direction, and sustainability initiatives.
He will focus on enhancing Bristol Waste Company’s standing as an industry leader, helping to keep Bristol clean and safe, while driving innovation in the sector.
This includes the growth of its commercial arm, providing waste and recycling, plus cleaning and security services to businesses in Bristol and beyond – with revenue generated going back into the city to support other important services.
Last year alone Bristol Waste delivered social value worth more than £30m.
