Sims will have new CEO in October

Sydney-based global metals and electronics recycling firm Sims Ltd. has announced the pending retirement of group CEO and Managing Director Alistair Field and the appointment of Stephen Mikkelsen as his replacement, with Mikkelson starting those posts Oct. 1.

Field joined Sims in 2015 and began his role as CEO in 2017. “As CEO, he has played a pivotal role in developing and driving the company’s growth strategy,” according to the firm.

“Alistair’s vision has been fundamental in transforming the company by defining our purpose and culture that, in turn, drives our strategy and vision,” Sims Board Chair Geoff Brunsdon says. “Alistair has been the driving force behind our long-term management succession planning process which will ensure this transition happens in an orderly manner.

“He is leaving Sims well-positioned to capitalize on a once-in-a-generation opportunity to support decarbonization, energy transition and the circular economy.”

“It is an excellent time to hand the baton to the next CEO of Sims, Stephen Mikkelsen, who has demonstrated a strong fit with the company’s strategy and culture," Field says.

Mikkelsen has served as Sims’ group chief financial officer since 2018 and prior to joining the recycling firm held a number of executive positions at Australia-based gas and oil firm AGL Energy.

While Mikkelsen is based in Sydney, the firm says as CEO he will spend his time co-located in Australia and the United States.

“Stephen has been selected following a rigorous recruitment process, and I congratulate him on his appointment,” Brunsdon says. “The board is delighted the new CEO of Sims comes from within and is a well-respected member of the organization. His experience and knowledge of Sims’ operations provide him with the ability to seamlessly transition to CEO while driving Sims’ growth strategy.”

“During his tenure as CFO, Stephen has acquired a deep understanding of the metals industry and he has been a significant contributor to Sims’ financial and operational performance. He brings a wealth of experience and a proven history in managing large complex organizations, building new businesses, and creating shareholder value through disciplined capital allocation.”

Mikkelsen says, “Sims is well-positioned to capture growth opportunities from decarbonization of the metals industry and development of circular economies," Mikkelsen says. "I look forward to leading the team and building on Alistair’s legacy.”

Steve Skurnac, currently the group chief development officer of Sims and a veteran of the electronics recycling sector, will take on the role of interim CFO as of Oct. 1. Upon the appointment of a permanent CFO, Skurnac will retire from Sims, the company says, and a global internal and external search for the CFO position is underway.

Mikkelsen says, “Steve has been with Sims in various executive roles since 2007, and he brings a wealth of executive-level experience across all our businesses. He will provide strong leadership and continuity while we conclude the appointment of a permanent CFO," Mikkelsen says.

Founded in 1917, Sims employs 4,400 people operating from more than 200 facilities in 15 countries.