J&B News & Updates

24.04.26

J&B Recycling, an FCC Environment company, has announced the retirement of its founder, Vikki Jackson-Smith, marking the end of an era for the Hartlepool-based business she has built from the ground up.

Vikki’s journey with the company began at just 16 years old, working on the weighbridge of her family’s solid fuel business, led by her father, Alan Jackson, who remained a constant source of support and mentorship throughout her career. From those early days, she developed a deep understanding of operations and logistics, progressing into transport management and playing an increasingly important role in the running of the business.

In the late 1990s, as the solid fuel industry declined, Vikki identified an opportunity to pivot into recycling and waste management. In 1998, she founded J&B Recycling - a decision that not only reshaped the future of the business but safeguarded jobs and created new opportunities for the existing workforce, many of whom remain with the company today.

Alongside her husband Stephen, Vikki has spent more than two decades growing J&B Recycling from a small family operation into one of the North East’s leading recycling and waste management businesses. Today, the company employs 200 people, processes more than 200,000 tonnes of waste each year, and supports thousands of commercial customers as well as local authorities across the region.

A key milestone came in 2014, when Vikki secured investment from BGF, enabling significant upgrades to the company’s facilities and processing capabilities. Her focus on operational efficiency, innovation and long-term sustainability has seen the business continue to evolve, navigating industry challenges while maintaining strong performance.

More recently, Vikki has successfully guided the business through two major transactions - first joining Urbaser Ltd in 2021, and then becoming part of FCC Environment in 2024. Through both transitions, she remained a constant presence, supporting her team and helping position the business for future growth within a larger group.

Under her leadership, J&B Recycling has become an important part of the North East’s recycling and waste management infrastructure - supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to more sustainable waste management practices. Beyond the business itself, Vikki is widely recognised and respected across the waste management industry, having worked closely with local authority partners for many years and building strong, long-standing relationships across both the public and private sectors.

Vikki’s contribution to the industry has also been recognised nationally. Most recently, she was named Female Business Leader of the Year at the British Business Awards 2025 - a reflection of both her commercial success and her impact as a leader.

For many within the business, Vikki has been a constant throughout their careers. Her hands-on approach, determination and ability to spot opportunities have left a lasting impression on both the company and the wider industry.

As she steps into retirement, Vikki is looking forward to spending more time travelling with Steven after many years dedicated to the business.

Vikki said, “J&B Recycling has been such a huge part of my life for so many years, so this is a very emotional moment for me. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together and the people who have been part of that journey. While it’s sad to step away, I’m also looking forward to spending more time with my family and friends, and to travelling and seeing a bit more of the world after so many years focused on the business.”

Everyone at J&B Recycling would like to thank Vikki and her family for their years of hard work, commitment and leadership, and wish them all the very best for the future.