Fresh from being recognised as the winner of the 2025 CEO Leadership Award, Sarah shared lessons from her journey, the challenges she has faced and the bold vision driving CIWM Group forward.
Taking to the stage at Kings Place, she opened with heartfelt thanks to her colleagues and to Memcom, emphasising that while the award recognises her achievements, “this award isn’t just about me, it’s about many people.”
Leading through change, with courage and curiosity
Sarah became CEO of CIWM Group at a pivotal moment. Climate urgency, digital disruption and changing member expectations required a new kind of leadership, one that honoured the organisation’s heritage while embracing transformation.
She didn’t arrive with all the answers. Instead, she came prepared to listen and learn, asking honest and sometimes difficult questions:
- What do our members need now and next?
- How do we remain relevant and resilient?
- Where is our sector heading and how do we lead the way?
This approach has been grounded in courage, clarity and collaboration - values she encourages every leader to nurture.
Building a culture of trust, accountability and continuous learning
A major part of CIWM Group’s transformation has involved investing in people and leadership culture. Sarah credits joining peer CEO networks and working with professional coaches for helping her challenge assumptions, sharpen strategy and make bold decisions.
“Great leaders build trust. They create space for others to grow.”
This mindset is embedded across the organisation. Through coaching, quarterly strategy reviews and empowering emerging leaders, CIWM Group has become more agile, aligned and future-ready. The creation of an Early Careers President and Ambassadors network ensures underrepresented voices are heard, and shaping the future.
For Sarah, this cultural shift is one of her proudest achievements.
From UK-focused to global influence
Under Sarah’s leadership, CIWM Group has accelerated its global reach to drive progress on circularity and sustainability worldwide.
Highlights include:
- International collaboration, such as the WasteAid initiative transforming waste management in The Gambia
- A landmark acquisition, integrating the Circular Economy Institute and Circular Economy Club in 2024
- Historic milestones ahead, including hosting the ISWA World Congress in 2026, returning to the UK after 30 years
- With members now in over 100 countries, CIWM Group is no longer just responding to global change, it is helping lead it.
Digital transformation as culture
Sarah spoke passionately about the Group’s digital journey, shifting not only systems but mindsets. From enhanced learning platforms to improved member engagement, digital transformation is now woven into everyday thinking, a tool to create value and connection at scale.
Resilience, determination and the power of purpose
Sarah’s message was clear: progress requires perseverance.
She acknowledged moments of being underestimated or discouraged, but emphasised the importance of showing up, speaking up and standing firm.
“Leadership is never a solo act. It’s a team sport.”
She reminded the room that leadership is defined not by titles, but by impact, the culture built, the people empowered and the legacy left.
