Big Truck Rental’s Martin Focuses on Future Leadership

As Big Truck Rental in Tampa, Fla., remains poised for growth, its Vice President of Sales North America Zach Martin is focused on providing leadership, structure, training and support, not only to his team but to the future leaders in waste and recycling.

“Zach is a natural leader. He communicates and establishes trust with others and invests significant resources in developing relationships,” says Greg Yorston, chief operating officer of Toronto-based GFL Environmental Inc. “He is also humble and approachable and willing to take time to better those around him.”

Yorston has worked with Martin in his role as past co-chairman of the National Waste & Recycling Association's Future Industry Leaders Alliance (FILA). The group provides education, networking and mentoring to future leaders to prepare them for executive advancement and professional leadership in the waste and recycling industry.

“Zach’s future advancement of the industry in many ways are materializing now. Under his leadership, FILA went from being a simple two- or three-day ‘field trip’ to an intensive, well-respected, leadership training program that is drawing top talent from most companies throughout the industry,” says Yorston. “His vision for creating a training ground for the next generation of industry leaders filled a major void within the industry and has had significant ripple effects that will continue well into the future.”

As a 2019 Waste360 40 Under 40 award recipient, Martin recently shared his leadership style and growth strategy in his role as vice president of sales and marketing for Big Truck Rental.

Waste360: How did you get into the waste and recycling industry?

Zach Martin: I had an opportunity to join Rehrig Pacific Company as a sales trainee in December 2003, where I was introduced to the waste and recycling industry.

Waste360: Have you held any other jobs in this industry? If so, what were they?

Zach Martin: I spent 13 years working with Rehrig Pacific, where I held roles in sales, business development, municipal sales and sales management. I was director of sales for the last two years of my time with the company, and I joined Big Truck Rental in December 2016 as vice president of sales North America.

Waste360: What does a typical day look like for you in your current role?

Zach Martin: Big Truck Rental is in growth mode, so my day is spent providing leadership, structure, training and support to our growing team to ensure that we meet customers’ expectations. I also oversee Big Truck Rental’s marketing efforts, so I spend time ensuring our brand continues to develop and further our market position through social media, website and advertising.

Waste360: What is one of the biggest challenges you have faced in this industry, and how did you overcome it?

Zach Martin: Prior to joining Big Truck Rental, I knew many aspects of the business but had a smaller understanding of the complexity of fleet management and trucks. What is great about this industry are the people and the time they were willing to invest with me to help get my knowledge where it needs it to be in order to be successful. It is an ongoing learning process, and I am appreciative of the customers, suppliers and partners who have supported me.

Waste360: What are you most passionate about when it comes to your career?

Zach Martin: People. Seeing the development and success of people who have been on my team and building long-standing friendships out of business relationships.

Waste360: What is your leadership style?

Zach Martin: To partner with my team by providing the resources, structure, goals and the freedom to execute in the way that best supports our business and their success. I live by the Platinum Rule of coaching, where everyone is treated how they want to be treated in order to have a personal experience with someone who has vested interest in their success.

Waste360: What is your proudest moment in your current role?

Zach Martin: It has been more than 2.5 years here at Big Truck Rental, and my proudest moment is ongoing because of the year-over-year amazing growth we have experienced. Working in a midsized company, you see the impact of your actions every single day, which is very rewarding.

Waste360: What do you see for the future of waste and recycling?

Zach Martin: It all comes back to people. It is our job to continue recruiting the best and brightest to join our industry, as they will help steer the future of the business when it comes to advanced technology, processes and equipment that best suits employees, customers and the environment.

Waste360: If you had to do something else as a career, what would it be?

Zach Martin: Voiceover actor. I say that somewhat tongue-in-cheek, but people ask me all the time if I ever do radio or voiceover work, and I think that would be a fun career to have.

Waste360: Do you have any hobbies or personal interests?

Zach Martin: Family and sports. I have an amazing family who supports me given all of the time and effort needed to be away and help run our business. I couldn’t do it without them. I also really enjoy coaching, watching and playing sports.