Management

We are proud of our management team. Learn about a few of the people who work behind the scenes at the Association!

Michelle Courtney
President & CEO
Since 2016

Michelle brings a passion for sustainability and innovation to the Association. Committed to advancing recycling and encouraging waste diversion, Michelle works closely with her team to tackle industry challenges and drive impactful change. Her vision is rooted in building a sustainable future and upholding BRA’s commitment to providing responsible, efficient services across its member municipalities.

Francis Veilleux
Since Inception

Francis served as President of the Bluewater Recycling Association from 1989 until he stepped down in November of this year. He has led the development, costing and optimization of recycling and waste management programs in more than 80 municipalities. He has developed a number of operations and economic analysis models and guidelines, which can assist municipalities in planning 3Rs programs and improve economics through reduced costs and improved efficiencies. 

Dave Ross
Fleet Operations Manager
Since 2023

Dave is presently the Association’s Fleet Manager and oversee our fleet, subcontractors, and the maintenance required. Dave has 30 years of experience in the transportation industry, managing fleets and maintenance facilities. He is a certified class 310T mechanic and a member of the London Automotive Transportation Service Superintendents Association.

Terry Erb
MRF Operations Manager
Since 2001

Terry is responsible for the Association's Material Recovery Facility (MRF). With his team, they process all the material collected from our fleet of vehicles and those collected by local contractors. They convert the material collected into valuable commodities meeting strict industry guidelines to ensure the highest quality possible at the most reasonable cost. Terry has many years of management in a variety of industries as well as being a certified class 310T mechanic.

Bonnie Stewardson
Mars Operations Manager
Since 2000

Whether you are a resident working on a special project or a commercial operations needing special containerized services, Bonnie will make sure you get what you need. She oversees our commercial division called Mars Environmental. In her spare time, she also oversees our E-Waste collection program. Bonnie is the gentle voice you may have the pleasure to talk to when you have an inquiry. She handles all the delivery of the communication materials that are delivered to your homes such as notices, instructional flyers, and calendars.

Jillian Simmons
Human Resources Manager
Since 2018

Jillian is responsible for all human resources functions at the Association including departmental development, employee relations, training and development, benefits, compensation, and employment. As the human resources leader, Jillian’s major focus is workforce ignition: challenging employees at every level to grow -- to reach – and to perform at the edge of their abilities. She is an active member of the Human Resources Professionals Association, holding a CHRP designation, and sits on the Employer Advisory Committee for the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, working to develop and create opportunities for future tradespeople.

Adam Hebden
Fleet Maintenance Supervisor
Since 2018

Adam is the Association's Fleet Maintenance Supervisor. Adam is responsible for our team of mechanics making sure that our fleet of vehicles is always ready to service our customers in a safe and efficient manner.  Adam has 20 years of experience in the heavy truck repair industry, overseeing a repair facility and its technicians. He is a certified 310T mechanic, Mack Master technician, Hino Platinum technician, and is Allison Transmission certified.

Richard Vandenberk
Route Supervisor
Since 2022

Richard is our Route Supervisor. It may look like he is new but Richard has been with us since 2005.  He worked his way from a driver to lead hand and now our Route Supervisor.  He is responsible for all our drivers and making sure all of our customers get collected as scheduled. He can be very busy managing all the unforeseen changes that happen from day to day such as road closures, inclement weather, vehicle breakdowns, and personnel changes because of illness, vacation, or personal emergencies. His phone can get pretty busy at times so don’t be afraid to leave a message, he will take care of you.

Our Admin Team

Dawn Rybicki

Bin Team Operations Specialist

Kim Hebden

Fleet Administrator