NWRA appoints president and CEO

The National Waste and Recycling Association (NWRA), Arlington, Virginia, has appointed Darrell K. Smith as the trade association’s president and CEO.

Smith’s skill sets include public policy advocacy for heavy industry, grassroots activation, trade association management and growth, public relations and a technical background in safety and environmental processes.

“The waste and recycling industry is profoundly important to the functioning of society, and the complexities and challenges faced by the industry are rarely appreciated,” Smith says. “I am proud to have been trusted with the management of the industry’s trade association, and I am ready to play a role in reenergizing staff, focusing on our mission and driving industry growth with the promotions of solutions-driven public policies.”

The appointment comes as the waste and recycling collection occupation ranks fifth in the nation for injuries, accidents and fatalities, due in large part to inattentive motorists and distracted driving. Smith was previously as a safety professional prior to entering the public policy sector.

“We were looking for a proven association leader, and we have found such a person in Darrell,” Ben Harvey, the NWRA board of trustees chair, says. “We are particularly pleased that he has worked previously in the waste industry, has a proven track record in association membership growth, is experienced in local community engagement, and that he possesses exceptional skills in strategic thinking and team building. We also recognized the value of his safety background.”

Smith comes to NWRA from the Industrial Minerals Association–North America, part of the mining industry, and has previously served as an industry advocate for the petroleum and chemical industries. Before entering public policy, he worked in several industries, including hazardous waste. He has a bachelor’s degree from the Citadel, a master’s degree in environmental science from the University of South Carolina and a doctoral degree from George Mason University in environmental conflict and public policy. He resides in Washington.