New Managing Director for Bristol Waste Company

Bristol Waste Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Rob Heath as their new Managing Director, starting in early September 2026.

Rob brings almost 40 years of experience in waste management and environmental services, having worked at every level of the sector — starting as a driver, and from site management to executive leadership — with major industry names including Biffa, SITA/SUEZ, and Ubico.

During his most recent role as Executive Operations Director for Ubico, he played a pivotal role in significant growth for the business, improving service delivery, and building robust operational, training, and Safety, Health, Environmental, and Quality (SHEQ) teams.

Crucially, for our partnership with Bristol City Council, Rob has direct experience working within Teckal company structures. He deeply understands what makes Bristol Waste Company unique, as well as the vital daily work our teams perform for the city.

Rob Heath, newly appointed Managing Director for Bristol Waste Company said: “I am thrilled to join Bristol Waste Company and to lead the teams making Bristol safer, cleaner and more sustainable. Having worked across all levels of environmental services, from driving — almost 40 years ago — to directing operations, I know how vital our frontline work is to local communities. I look forward to working closely with Bristol City Council, building on Bristol’s innovative and dedicated attitude towards sustainability, and ensuring we continue to deliver reliable services that residents can be proud of.”

“We’re delighted to have attracted someone of Rob’s calibre to lead Bristol Waste Company,” said Andrew Pollard, Chair of Bristol Waste Company. “Rob brings considerable experience in the waste management and recycling sector, particularly in Teckal trading businesses like ours, and a strong track record of leadership in operational services. The team and I very much look forward to working with him as we continue to strengthen Bristol Waste Company’s profile and reputation and deliver for the city in the years ahead.”

Councillor Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: “We welcome Rob into his new role and value the depth of his experience across the sector. This along with his understanding of the unique relationship between our two organisations will be a real asset as we further strengthen our partnership.

“Our city’s residents value clean streets and neighbourhoods and we are committed to investing in measures that will help to reduce litter and fly-tipping, improve reliability of collections whilst decarbonising our fleet and make it easier for people to reduce their waste and recycle more. Rob’s leadership and experience will be key to delivering on these priorities and I look forward to working closely with him and the team as we drive forward these important improvements.”

A huge thank you to our tripartite leadership team, Ricky Gayfer, Operations Director, Ceri Hodgkinson, People Director, and Kevin Hayter, Finance Director, who have provided collective governance and ensured continuity during the recruitment process and will continue until Rob starts in September.

We are confident that Rob’s proven track record of operational excellence and commercial growth will be an asset to Bristol Waste Company and will support the wider city council partnership. His appointment will help make Bristol safer, cleaner, and more sustainable for the city’s residents, businesses and visitors.