Mr Simmons, who joined Greenstar in December 2009, has 20 years operational leadership experience in senior positions. Most recently, Simmons came to Greenstar from Q Investments where he served as senior operating partner. Q Investments is a multi-strategy hedge fund. He also spent 20 years at GE (General Electric) where he held international leadership positions in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, business development and operations.
Jim Barry, CEO of renewable energy group NTR, said: “We are pleased to welcome Michael to Greenstar North America. With the need for enhanced sustainability efforts continuing to increase worldwide, Michael’s experience and leadership will be of tremendous value to our organization and in delivering on our business objectives. Greenstar is a core business for NTR and we are strongly committed to the recycling industry over the long term.”
NTR has invested $710m in its US renewable energy and recycling businesses with $315m of that committed to recycling.
Mr Simmons will replace Mike Wynne, who has been serving as interim CEO during Greenstar’s chief executive search. Mr Wynne will continue in his role as chairman and chief executive of NTR’s International Recycling Operations.
Mr Wynne added, “In 2007, Greenstar entered the North American market. Now, in just three short years, we have established ourselves as a leading recycler in America bringing innovative and sustainable solutions to our customers. Simmons’ successful track record as CEO and his expertise in operations, finance and business development will support Greenstar’s growth as one of the leading recyclers globally.”
