Suez chief executive becomes chair of ESA

His appointment was confirmed at the Association’s Annual General Meeting held today (28 November 2025).

Scanlon succeeds Biffa CEO Michael Topham, who stepped down following the completion of his two-year term.

The ESA represents almost 70 of the UK’s recycling and waste management companies, employing a combined workforce of 50,000 people.

Commenting on his appointment, Scanlon said: “I’m proud to follow in Michael’s footsteps as ESA Chair as the sector enters a period of adaptation and delivery that will see the Government’s trio of recycling reforms coming into effect.

“Overall, I am cautiously optimistic and with the creation of a sector roadmap, the publication of the Government’s circular economy growth plan and preparations for the introduction of ETS in 2028 all in the wings, 2026 is already shaping up to be a productive year.

“I look forward to helping to lead the sector through this next phase of our transition as we translate policy into practice.”

Jacob Hayler, Executive Director of the ESA, added: “The ESA team and I welcome John to his new additional role as ESA Chair and look forward to working with John and the rest of our board as we continue to deliver against our sectoral net-zero and circular economy targets.”

‘A pivotal time for our industry’

Michael Topham, who became ESA Chair in December 2023, led the Association through extensive engagement between ESA members and government departments including DESNZ and Defra on the inclusion of waste within the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).

His term also spanned the political transition following the 2024 General Election, as well as the implementation phase of the government’s Collection and Packaging Reforms.

Alongside this policy-focused work, Topham oversaw a refresh of the ESA’s organisational strategy and its four strategic priorities: sustainable resource use, zero-carbon, higher standards and effective regulation.

Topham reflected on his time as Chair: “It’s been an honour to serve as ESA Chair during a pivotal time for our industry.

“The past two years have brought intense political and economic uncertainty, yet our Association has worked hard with government and stakeholders to shape vital policy and drive progress.

“Our Circular Economy Vision 2040 and renewed strategic priorities show the sector’s ambition for a zero-carbon, resource-efficient future.

“But without further certainty on policy, investment will stall – and a more sustainable future for waste management in the UK will remain out of reach.

“I’m grateful to the ESA team, our members and partners for their commitment throughout my tenure, and I wish John every success as Chair.”