Casella Waste Systems, Inc., a regional solid waste, recycling and resource management services company, announced that Damian Ribar will join its executive leadership team as executive vice president and chief operating officer. The company also promoted Shelley Sayward from senior vice president and general counsel to executive vice president and general counsel.
As executive vice president and chief operating officer, Ribar will oversee the companyʼs operations and partner with the executive leadership team to execute Casellaʼs long-term growth strategy.
Ribar has more than 30 years of solid waste industry experience. He has excelled throughout his career in driving operational execution, developing high-performing teams, effectively developing and executing financial plans and successfully integrating acquisitions.
Prior to joining Casella, Ribar served as division vice president of North Florida at Waste Connections, Inc., where he was responsible for operations across more than 30 operating locations. During his tenure he served in a variety of leadership roles.
Earlier in his career, Ribar served as area manager for Progressive Waste Solutions, where he managed collection, disposal and recycling operations. In addition, he previously served as vice president and operations controller at Waste Services, Inc. as well as chief accounting officer and corporate controller at Regus Industries, LLC, and region controller at Waste Management, Inc. Throughout his career, he has successfully led the integration of acquired businesses while building strong operating teams and driving sustainable performance across diverse markets.
Sayward was promoted from senior vice president and general counsel to executive vice president and general counsel. Sayward has played an integral role in the company’s growth and has served as senior vice president and general counsel since January 2021.
Published August 2026
