The National Waste and Recycling Industry Council (the ‘Council’) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rose Read as its new CEO, effective August 1.
Rose is a seasoned CEO with experience leading both commercial and not-for-profit organisations including AMTA’s MobileMuster and Clean Up Australia. She has 20 years experience in the waste, recycling and environmental sectors. She is a recognised expert on recycling advocacy and community engagement.
She is currently the CEO of the MRI PSO – the product stewardship arm of MRI E-cycle Solutions. The MRI PSO is a government approved program for television and computer recycling Australia wide. Rose will transition out of her role at MRI to take the position of CEO of NWRIC.
“I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with Council members and State affiliates in addressing key national issues facing the industry,” Ms Read said. “As a key enabler of the circular economy the recycling industry has much to contribute to Australia economically, environmentally and socially.
I look forward to being part of NWRIC and collaborating with members and key stakeholders to create a more vibrant and sustainable waste and recycling industry”.
“Rose has played an important role in setting up MRI’s product stewardship arm over the past two years,” said Will LeMessurier, Managing Director, MRI E-cycle Solutions. “She will continue to be involved in MRI on a part time basis over the next six months or so as we transition to our new structure. We wish her well in her new role and the continued positive influence she has over our industry.”
Rose’s appointment comes as a result of the retirement of Max Spedding. With more than 30 years experience in the waste and recycling sector, Max is moving on to enjoy retirement after a prestigious career. Alex Serpo will remain with the organisation as company secretary.
“There are few in the industry who haven’t had the opportunity to work with Max and experience his patient and discerning management style,” said Mr Phil Richards, Chair of the NWRIC. “Over his 30 career he has contributed enormously to the development of the industry, and we wish him well in retirement.”
“Setting up the Council over the past two years has been a challenge but now we have all of the key national companies and state associations on board we are starting to see real and positive outcomes.” said outgoing CEO Max Spedding. “With our current recycling problems and the urgent need for better infrastructure planning across Australia, Rose and her team have a busy time ahead. I wish them every success.”
The appointment of Rose comes at a time when the NWRIC are stepping up to promote practical solutions for a circular economy. Key priorities for 2018 and 2019 include a national campaign to improve standards across the industry, working with the States to harmonise and improve regulation and continued campaigns for better recycling services in the wake of the Chinese import restrictions.