Casella Waste Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CWST) announced two executive leadership changes, including the appointment of Damian Ribar as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, effective July 20, 2026, and the promotion of Shelley Sayward to Executive Vice President and General Counsel.

Ribar brings more than 30 years of solid waste industry experience to the Rutland, Vermont-based company. He most recently served as Division Vice President of North Florida at Waste Connections, Inc., where he oversaw operations across more than 30 locations. Earlier in his career, he held roles at Progressive Waste Solutions, Waste Services, Inc., Regus Industries, LLC, and Waste Management, Inc. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.

In his new role, Ribar will oversee company operations and work with the executive leadership team on long-term strategy execution.

"Damian is a proven leader with an exceptional track record, and I am thrilled to have him join our executive leadership team," said Ned Coletta, President and Chief Executive Officer of Casella.

Sayward has been with Casella since 2008 and has served as Senior Vice President and General Counsel since January 2021. In her expanded role, she continues to oversee legal and governmental affairs, engineering, permitting and compliance, and risk management.

"Shelley's promotion reflects both her exceptional leadership and the significant contributions she has made to Casella over nearly two decades," Coletta said.