John Defenbaugh

About John Defenbaugh

As a strategic and results-oriented business leader with over 30 years of experience in the waste and recycling industry, I specialize in driving profitable growth, operational excellence, and long-term value creation—particularly within Private Equity-backed organizations.Throughout my career, I’ve built a reputation for developing high-performing teams, cultivating trusted relationships across all levels of an organization, and delivering consistent financial results. I’m passionate about empowering people, setting clear direction, and creating a culture of accountability and innovation.My expertise spans P&L leadership, business development, marketing strategy, and executive-level planning. I’ve participated in divestitures, negotiated complex multi-year contracts, and managed business development budgets aligned with strategic goals. I thrive in dynamic environments where growth, transformation, and customer focus are key.Whether leading a turnaround, scaling operations, or preparing a business for exit, I bring a hands-on, collaborative approach that consistently delivers measurable outcomes.

Experience

1. Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)

   Wastequip

   Jan 2023 — Present · Charlotte, NC, US

Education

• Harvard Business School Executive Education

  Executive Education, Managing Sales Teams and Distribution Channels

  2019 — 2019

• The University of Georgia

  Bachelor's Degree, Business Administration, Management and Operations

  1990 — 1994

Skills

• Purchasing
• Process Improvement
• Team Building
• Cscp
• Manufacturing
• Sales Management
• Materials Management
• Operations Management
• Leadership
• Forecasting
• Continuous Improvement
• Business Development
• Budgets
• Mrp
• New Business Development
• Strategic Planning
• Iso
• Six Sigma
• Lean Manufacturing
• Budgeting
• Contract Negotiation