Long-standing MD of waste disposal firm Jacqueline O'Donovan to step down after 36 years

Jacqueline O'Donovan OBE took up the top role at just 19 years old

Tue, 30 Jan, 2024 - 16:03

Emer Walsh

Long-standing managing director of waste disposal firm O'Donovan's has stepped down from her role after 36 years.

Established in 1959, O'Donovan's Waste Disposal was founded by Cork man, Joe O'Donovan, who emigrated from West Cork to the UK.

His daughter, Jacqueline O'Donovan, took up the job as MD when she was just 19 years old, receiving an OBE at Windsor Castle in December 2023 for services to recycling, safety and industry.

Commended for "pushing boundaries" throughout her career, Ms O'Donovan is leaving the waste disposal firm in the hands of Sortera, a Swedish firm that acquired the company in 2022.

"I am excited with what we plan to achieve in 2024 and beyond, with our aim of being the partner of choice in respect of sustainable construction," said managing director of Sortera UK, Mark McCleery.

With both organic and strategic growth plans outlined for 2024, Mr McCleery added that it had secured a "fantastic business to build upon."

Currently, the waste company owns a combined fleet of more than 220 along with 6 depots servicing London and the Southeast.

"I am super excited to move into different industries to see what else I can turn my hand to," said Ms O'Donovan.

"I have no intention of abandoning the waste industry as it has been my love for 36 years and it has been such a fantastic journey that I have had from £175k turnover back in the 80s, leaving on a £20m+ high is an amazing achievement from all the family and staff."

Throughout her time as MD, Ms O'Donovan was honoured by President Michael D. Higgins with a Presidential Distinguished Service Award for her support of the Irish community in the UK. She also became the first female CEO worldwide to earn a master's degree in demolition management.