The Company
The client was a UK-based recycling and resource recovery business, operating as part of a larger national group. It specialised in the recovery of complex waste streams for reuse in manufacturing and energy conversion, with a particular focus on industrial and commercial customers. With operations across multiple sites, the wider group employed more than 1,400 people and generated annual revenues exceeding £280 million.
The client’s wood recycling division had shown strong growth and was considered a core part of the company’s long-term commercial strategy. To support this momentum, the business sought to strengthen leadership within the division.
The Challenge
As the division continued to expand, the company recognised the need for a senior commercial leader to support the Business Development Director and provide structure and vision for the next phase of growth. The newly created role of Commercial Manager was identified as business-critical.
This role carried significant responsibility, including leadership of the sales team, the implementation of budgeting and reporting procedures and delivery of a division-wide sales strategy. It was a high-visibility position that required regular engagement with the group board. The client needed someone who could quickly build trust, provide immediate leadership and bring a strategic approach to commercial development.
After internal efforts to secure the right candidate fell short, the company turned to Newman Stewart based on our track record of placing senior leaders within the waste and recycling sector.
Our Process
Newman Stewart was appointed to lead a targeted executive search. Acting as both search partner and strategic advisor, we worked closely with the client to refine the brief and define the leadership, behavioural and cultural attributes that would be essential for success in the role.
We undertook a confidential and highly focused search process, combining our established executive search methodology with extensive sector knowledge. Candidates were assessed not only on experience and technical capability but also on leadership behaviours, team development skills and their ability to influence across a group structure.
Following a rigorous screening and interview process, we presented a shortlist of five high-calibre candidates. Each underwent a two-stage interview process and psychometric assessment. Consistent communication and feedback sessions with the client ensured we remained closely aligned on expectations throughout.
The Outcome
The position was filled by an experienced commercial leader with a strong background in industrial sales and a proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams. Upon joining, the individual introduced greater structure to the division’s sales operations and aligned the commercial strategy with wider group objectives.
By engaging Newman Stewart early in the process, the client accelerated the appointment timeline, avoided unnecessary resource pressure and secured a leader who contributed value from the outset.
The client reflected: “Throughout the process the team provided excellent feedback, the candidates were well briefed and most importantly we did not waste any time. Ultimately, the biggest result is that over a period of seven weeks we briefed, interviewed and offered a senior position and we could not be happier with the result. A fantastic addition to our team and a brilliant fit for future growth.”
This assignment reinforced the importance of working with a search partner who not only understands the sector but can translate business goals into targeted leadership appointments. Newman Stewart delivered a precise, insight-led process that supported the client’s growth strategy with pace and confidence.
For support with critical leadership appointments, contact Newman Stewart. T: 01937 541395 | E: info@newmanstewart.co.uk.
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