National Recycling Director

The National Recycling Director (NRD) serves as an emerging strategic leader for a portfolio of Northstar Recycling clients while leading and developing the Client Development Executives (CDs) who support those accounts. This role sits at the intersection of client strategy, sustainability, account operations, people leadership, and business performance.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who understands that successful client account management requires a balance of strategic planning and operational execution. NRDs develop long-term account strategies while remaining actively engaged in day-to-day account performance, client needs, and operational challenges. This includes direct support during escalations, implementations, transitions, staffing gaps, and periods of increased volume to ensure client satisfaction, continuity of service, and business success.

Requirements

Demonstrated progressive experience in manufacturing or corporate sustainability, environmental services, waste/recycling, client/account management, supply chain, or related operations.
Experience working within or closely supporting manufacturing environments, corporate sustainability programs, environmental initiatives, or complex multi-site operations strongly preferred.
1–3 years of people leadership experience preferred, including experience coaching, mentoring, training, or providing day-to-day direction to others. Candidates with demonstrated informal leadership experience who are ready to step into broader formal people management responsibilities are encouraged to apply.
Experience managing complex client or stakeholder relationships and communicating effectively with contacts at multiple organizational levels.
Exposure to cost savings, operational improvement, sustainability goals, vendor management, negotiations, program implementation, or similar business initiatives.
Strong business acumen with the ability to balance client outcomes, service quality, profitability, and operational realities.
Comfort navigating ambiguity, prioritizing competing needs, and managing multiple projects or accounts simultaneously.
Forward-thinking, strategic, and growth-oriented mindset paired with strong attention to detail and follow-through.
Ability to lead effectively across departments and influence without relying solely on formal authority.
Willingness to remain hands-on and step into operational needs when necessary.
Ability to learn Northstar’s business model, platforms, material grades, improvement strategies, and ways of working.
Availability after hours when needed for escalated service emergencies and ability to travel as business needs require.

Education & Other Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Sustainability, Environmental Science, Supply Chain, Operations, or a related field preferred, or equivalent relevant experience.
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record as a condition of employment.

Northstar NRDs can be based throughout the country. This position can be fully remote or a hybrid office/remote set-up utilizing an existing Northstar office.

Tagged as: Renewable Energy/Sustainability