Waste Management’s COO Is Leaving the Firm

Larry O’Donnell, president and chief operating officer (COO) of Houston-based Waste Management since April 2004, will be leaving the firm at the end of June “to pursue chief executive officer opportunities,” according to the company. Waste Management CEO David Steiner has assumed the title of president, and O’Donnell will work with Steiner “through June 30 … to assure an orderly transition of duties,” according to the hauler.

In February, O’Donnell gained fame when he starred in the first episode of the CBS reality series “Undercover Boss,” which appeared right after the Super Bowl.

“I have worked with Larry at Waste Management for 10 years, and during that time he has demonstrated the capability and desire to become a CEO,” said Steiner. “That would be difficult to pursue while performing his duties as president, so we mutually agreed that Larry would transition his duties to me to allow him to devote his energies to the next stage of his career. I am certain he will be successful, and will miss him at the company as a colleague and a friend.”

“I have enjoyed the many friendships I have made during my years at Waste Management, and am proud of the achievements we have made together as a team,” added O'Donnell. “The company is well positioned for continued progress and success, and now is a good time to pursue my next goal. I wish each WM employee and their family continued success.”

• To read Waste Age's exclusive Q&A with O'Donnell about his "Undercover Boss" appearance, click here.