Name: Michael Malatesta

New position: CEO of LJP Waste Solutions

Previous position: CEO of Full Cycle Enterprises

Malatesta took on the top role at the Minnesota-based company this week, following the retirement of former CEO Steve Metz.

“I was drawn to LJP due to its excellent customer service, industry leading team, and growth opportunities in the zero landfill and waste-to-energy markets. I look forward to joining the LJP team and advancing our strategic initiatives,” said Malatesta in a statement.

Malatesta has more than 30 years of experience in the environmental services sector, including leadership roles at multiple companies. This included founding Advanced Waste Services, which grew to operate six locations across five states before Covanta purchased it in 2015 as a way for that company to expand its industrial waste offerings. Malatesta then worked to grow another industrial waste company, ERC Midwest, through multiple acquisitions before selling it to VLS Environmental Solutions in 2021.

Mankato-based LJP has grown through its own acquisitions and was acquired by private equity firm Nonantum Capital Partners in 2022. The company was previously owned by Aperion Management.

“We are excited to welcome Mike to the LJP team and believe that his experience growing differentiated businesses in the environmental services industry will be an asset to LJP during its next phase of growth,” said Jon Biotti, managing partner of Nonantum, in a statement.

LJP, which was founded in 1993, provides waste and recycling services with a focus on larger commercial clients. It touts a “zero landfill” approach, which is done via converting waste to a refuse-derived fuel product that is used by Xcel Energy. LJP also operates transfer facilities and services some residential customers.

Executive search firm Global Recruiters McKinney facilitated Malatesta’s placement with LJP.