MICHAEL SALDANA
La Habra,CA
Summary
Results-driven operations executive with over 14 years of progressive leadership experience across the waste management and environmental services industries. Proven track record of managing multi-site operations, leading large teams, and optimizing safety and logistics systems. Skilled in P&L ownership, strategic planning, compliance oversight, and technology implementation. Known for driving cost savings ($25M+), increasing efficiency, and elevating safety culture. Fluent in Spanish and experienced in both union and non-union environments.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Medi-Waste Disposal
09.2024 - Current
- Lead regional field operations across multiple medical waste lines, including regulated waste, sharps, and pharmaceuticals.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations (OSHA, DOT, EPA, HIPAA) via audits, training, and manifest tracking.
- Oversee cross-functional teams of drivers, dispatchers, and technicians; drive recruitment, onboarding, and performance reviews.
- Implement ELDs and digital route tools, improving route efficiency and reducing violations.
- Manage fleet operations including preventative maintenance, inspections, and asset utilization.
- Partner with sales to support business development, onboarding new healthcare clients and optimizing pricing models.
- Reduced operational costs and improved margins through vendor renegotiation and labor optimization.
- Manage full $10M P&L, consistently meeting financial and service KPIs.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
Area Operations Manager
AWP Safety
01.2023 - 09.2024
- Directed multi-location operations supporting 80 active contracts, ensuring high service levels and prompt resolution of customer issues.
- Managed a team of supervisors and field personnel, conducting regular safety training and enforcing compliance standards.
- Reduced turnover and improved labor efficiency by implementing staff development and recognition programs.
- Owned $13M P&L and successfully aligned operational goals with budget targets.
- Maximized profits through thorough financial analysis, identifying areas for cost savings without compromising service quality or employee satisfaction.
- Boosted team morale and productivity by fostering a positive work environment and offering regular feedback.
General Manager
Republic Services
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Directed high-volume district operations across all solid waste segments; accountable for $50M P&L.
- Led seamless transition from WM to Republic Services, including creation of new CBA for transferred workforce.
- Championed a safety-first culture, driving down incidents through robust prevention, education, and enforcement programs.
- Streamlined operations and increased customer satisfaction through targeted service and productivity enhancements.
District Operations Manager
WM
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Led district operations with 275 employees and a $10M P&L.
- Delivered safe, reliable, and high-quality customer service across commercial and residential waste segments.
- Drove improvements in compliance, performance tracking, and employee development.
- Investigated safety incidents and implemented corrective action plans.
- Developed strategic plans for the district to achieve short-term and long-term goals.
- Improved district operations efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing best practices.
Process Improvement Manager for Ops, Safety & Fleet
WM
01.2012 - 01.2019
- Partnered with 4 directors to oversee performance and profitability across multiple locations (26).
- Led logistics and safety improvements, achieving over $107M in savings via route redesigns and landfill optimization.
- Deployed new fleet and timekeeping technologies that saved an additional $10M.
- Partnered with labor unions to enhance workforce relations and ensure contract compliance.
Route Logistics Engineer
WM
01.2007 - 01.2012
- Analyzed and improved routing efficiency, balancing service levels with operational costs.
- Provided ongoing support to route managers, ensuring data-driven decision-making and optimized service coverage.
- Multi-Million dollar saving with re-routing and disposal optimizations
Education
High School Diploma -
Bishop Amat Memorial High School
La Punte, CA06-2001
Skills
- Power BI (Advanced)
- Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
- Data Analytics & Reporting Tools
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Multi-Site Operations Leadership
- P&L Accountability (up to $50M)
- Safety & Compliance (OSHA, DOT, EPA)
- Fleet & Logistics Optimization
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Team Development & Culture Building
- Customer Retention & Satisfaction
- Union Relations & Labor Negotiation
- Acquisition Integration & Due Diligence
- Technology Implementation (ELD, route tools)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Bilingual: English & Spanish
Timeline
General Manager
Medi-Waste Disposal
09.2024 - Current
Area Operations Manager
AWP Safety
01.2023 - 09.2024
General Manager
Republic Services
01.2022 - 01.2023
District Operations Manager
WM
01.2019 - 01.2022
Process Improvement Manager for Ops, Safety & Fleet
WM
01.2012 - 01.2019
Route Logistics Engineer
WM
01.2007 - 01.2012
High School Diploma -
Bishop Amat Memorial High School
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