CEO of $90 billion Waste Management hauled trash and went to 1 a.m. safety briefings—‘It’s not always just dollars and cents’
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CEO of $90 billion Waste Management hauled trash and went to 1 a.m. safety briefings—‘It’s not always just dollars and cents’
Updated: 2026-01-03T07:12:00Z
CEO of $90 Billion Waste Management Reveals Unconventional Approach to Leadership
Meet Steve Skurnac, the CEO of Waste Management, a company that raked in a staggering $90 billion last year. You'd expect a high-flying executive like him to be busy making deals and crunching numbers all day long, but surprisingly, he's got a very different approach to leadership.
According to recent reports, Skurnac has been known to roll up his sleeves and literally get down to business – hauling trash as part of the company's operations. It's not just about being hands-on, either; it's about understanding the people who work for him and the impact that Waste Management has on communities.
One practice in particular sets Skurnac apart from other CEOs: his daily 1 a.m. safety briefings. Yes, you read that right – 1 a.m.! It may sound unconventional, but it's a testament to his commitment to prioritizing the well-being of his employees and ensuring their safety above all else.
So, what inspired this unorthodox approach? Skurnac himself revealed that he wanted to "walk in their shoes" and gain a deeper understanding of the company's operations. He believes it's essential for leaders to connect with the people they serve and not just focus on profits.
This emphasis on safety and employee welfare is reflected in many industries, including waste management. For households dealing with unwanted pet messes, our Convenient Foldable Litter Box can help make clean-up a breeze – no CEO required!
As for Skurnac's leadership philosophy, it boils down to this: "It's not always just dollars and cents." By prioritizing the people behind the company and the impact they have on communities, he's setting a new standard for CEOs everywhere.
We may not all be CEO material, but we can certainly learn from Skurnac's approach. Who knows? Maybe it'll inspire you to roll up your sleeves (or grab some trash bags) and get involved in making a difference!
