David P. Steiner served as CEO of Waste Management, Inc. from January 2004 until November 2016. He led the company through significant growth and improvement, emphasizing performance-based compensation, which tied executive pay closely to company success. Steiner made strategic shifts...

David P. Steiner served as CEO of Waste Management, Inc. from January 2004 until November 2016. He led the company through significant growth and improvement, emphasizing performance-based compensation, which tied executive pay closely to company success. Steiner made strategic shifts away from stock options after 2010, focusing instead on stock units and performance shares for long-term rewards. This move shows his commitment to aligning the company’s interests with those of its shareholders. Notably, when he left the position, he retired rather than leaving due to conflict, which assures a smooth transition. His career started at Waste Management as President and Chief Operating Officer, showcasing his deep-rooted experience in the business. Steiner holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and an MBA from the University of Chicago, providing a solid educational background to support his professional journey. During his tenure, he was known for motivating the team to exceed financial goals, generating real value for both the company and its investors. He had substantial personal benefits during his time, including the use of company aircraft, reflecting the perks often associated with high-level executives. His understanding of both operations and shareholder value has left an important mark on the company’s strategy.