Building circularity momentum in North America: A conversation with Michael J. Williams, EVP of Circular Solutions, North America

Tom: Michael, it’s been a busy year for the team in North America. Can you walk us through some of the progress you’ve made?

Michael: It’s been an amazing year, no doubt. We kicked off with the acquisition of Lincoln Waste Solutions in May 2024, which became the platform for our operations in North America under the leadership of CEO John Ayvas. That was quickly followed by four additional acquisitions, each bringing incredible teams and new capabilities onboard. In September 2024, the Lincoln team of 25 colleagues relocated to our new headquarters in Windsor, Connecticut. By the end of the year, we’ll have over 100 colleagues from three acquired businesses based there, plus an additional 40+ colleagues at our operation in Peekskill, NY.

This growth is more than numbers; it’s about expanding our ability to deliver industry-leading, customer-focused service while laying down the foundations for scalable, sustainable operations.

Tom: That’s an impressive trajectory. What have been the most valuable learnings so far?

Michael: One of our biggest priorities has been protecting our culture as we grow. That starts with choosing the right partners. Lincoln was a natural fit, their relentless focus on customer experience and their respectful, collaborative approach to working with haulers really mirrored Reconomy’s values.

Each business we’ve brought into the fold since then shares that ethos. And moving forward, that alignment will continue to be non-negotiable.

Another major learning is the importance of clear, consistent communication. When you’re growing fast and integrating multiple businesses, communication isn’t a one-time event, it’s an ongoing commitment. We know we can always get better here, and it’s something we’re putting at the top of our priority list.

Tom: Looking ahead, what’s next for Reconomy in North America?

Michael: We’ve got big ambitions and tremendous support from our owners and Reconomy senior leadership. We’ll keep scaling through both M&A activity and organic growth. The Lincoln platform, much like the UK’s Business and Industry team, is our foundation, but we’re also exploring expansion into adjacent sectors like industrial hazardous and non-hazardous waste, construction and demolition, and equipment rental, to name a few.

Ultimately, our goal is to be a trusted partner that can handle any material from any generator and guide it toward the most sustainable, ideally circular, outcome, in alignment with our customers’ sustainability and financial goals.

Tom: And what are you personally most excited about as we move into this next phase?

Michael: I’m really excited to watch our team continue to grow and come together as we get further into scaling and integrating our business.

There’s a real sense of opportunity, not just for our business, but for our people. With the growth we’re planning, there will be incredible opportunities for professional development. It’s rewarding to see people grow alongside the business.

I’m also genuinely excited about the momentum for circularity in the U.S. The appetite for sustainable solutions is gaining momentum, and our team, with support from the broader Reconomy team, is ready to meet that demand. I look forward to watching our reuse and recycling rates climb as we scale our impact.

Ready to Think Circular in North America?

Reconomy’s expanding U.S. network, which includes brands such as Lincoln Waste Solutions, among others, is delivering flexible, tech-enabled, and circular solutions to businesses across various sectors. Whether you’re looking to reduce waste, improve compliance, or explore reuse and recycling opportunities, we’re here to help.