Ben Routledge

Background

About Ben Routledge

I am a strategic municipal operations leader and licensed agrologist with over 15 years of experience translating complex environmental challenges into sustainable, scalable public solutions. I specialize in regulatory compliance, zero-waste innovation, and cross-functional team leadership within multi-million-dollar government operations. My career has centered around one mission: modernizing public service delivery to serve both community and the environment. As Manager of Solid Waste Services for the Regional District of Nanaimo, I direct a $30M+ operation and lead a team of 70+ in delivering integrated planning, environmental engineering, and curbside programs. I’ve extended landfill lifecycles, driven 90% diversion targets, and secured cross-jurisdictional support for circular economy initiatives. I’m known for building cohesive systems that align civic planning, sustainability, and operational excellence—grounded in strong labor relations, executive communication, and stakeholder collaboration with all levels of government, including First Nations. My leadership bridges policy and performance, transforming infrastructure into impact through forward-thinking governance and innovation. Core Expertise: Municipal Operations | Regulatory Compliance | Capital Project Leadership | Zero-Waste Strategies | Circular Economy Policy | Cross-Government Collaboration | Labor & Union Relations | Public Engagement | KPI-Driven Innovation | Solutions Orientated Leadership I thrive on challenges that call for long-term vision and immediate action—and I’m always open to connecting with peers, policymakers, and partners working toward a more resilient, sustainable future. Let’s connect—collaboration starts with conversation.