John Skinner, long-time executive director and CEO of the Solid Waste Management Association of North America (SWANA), will retire effective April 30, 2015.
Skinner has led the association since 1996 following positions at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Environment Programme, according to a news release.
“I have truly enjoyed working with SWANA’s members and staff throughout the years and believe we have taken the association to new heights together,” Skinner said. “I am stepping down from SWANA to focus my future activities on efforts to advance solid waste programs internationally.”
Current president of the Silver Spring, Md.-based SWANA, Brian Tippetts, said, “John has been a great asset to SWANA and will continue to lead the organization well through his retirement date. Under his leadership, SWANA has grown in both number and stature, and we thank him for his service and dedication for the past 18 years.”
Tippetts said some of Skinner’s SWANA accomplishments included the highest membership total in the association’s history (8.300); membership in every U.S. state, Canadian province and a Caribbean Chapter; a strong balance sheet and financial reserves; a wide range of educational offerings; a proactive advocacy program; and an applied research program providing valuable studies.
Tippetts said for Skinner’s successor SWANA will seek an experienced leader and manager with a background in the solid waste industry and the ability to build relationships for the association and the industry. The new chief also will take a lead in implementing SWANA’s new strategic plan, which is nearing completion.
Questions about SWANA's executive search should be directed to SWANA General Counsel Barry Shanoff.