Priority Waste names CEO
Priority Waste, a hauler of waste and recyclables operating transfer stations, has appointed Aaron Johnson as CEO. Johnson is a fourth-generation waste industry operator with over two decades of leadership experience.
About the role
In this role, Johnson will focus on strengthening operations, upgrading infrastructure, and delivering reliable service for Priority Waste, an independent provider of waste and environmental services. The company serves over 1.3 million households and 125 municipalities across Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana, along with thousands of commercial customers in the Midwest. Priority Waste employs 1,200 people, operates 625 routes, and owns five transfer stations.
Responsibilities
- Strengthen and modernize waste and recycling operations
- Upgrade infrastructure and fleet
- Deliver reliable, high-quality service to residential, municipal, and commercial customers
- Create a safe and exceptional work environment
- Execute operational improvements, including route reliability, on-time service, and faster response times
- Lead integration of acquisitions and expand the company’s Midwest footprint
Qualifications
- Over 20 years of leadership experience in the waste and recycling industry
- Fourth-generation waste industry operator
- Proven track record in regional operations, commercial growth, and service delivery
- Experience leading or integrating over 50 acquisitions
- Deep knowledge of the Midwest market
Experience
- Most recently served as President of the Midwest Region at Reworld, overseeing regional operations, commercial growth, and service delivery
- Spent over two decades at WM Inc., holding leadership roles across multiple regions, including Canada and the Great Lakes
- Joins Priority Waste following its acquisition by TPG, a global alternative asset management firm
Johnson’s appointment follows significant investment by TPG, including $190 million in capital to modernize Priority Waste’s fleet, settle outstanding claims, and improve operational efficiency. Robert Simon has also joined as Senior Vice President of Fleet, bringing over 15 years of industry experience.