We are thrilled to announce that Ed was shortlisted as a finalist for the Company Leader at the East Midlands Leadership Awards 2024
While Ed didn’t secure the top honour, his outstanding leadership, visionary approach, and significant contributions to the industry were acknowledged, in the over 100 employees category, at the prestigious awards last night.

Collaborating with distinguished UK brands such as LEVC, LUSH, Whirlpool, and BMW Group across sectors like Aerospace, Automotive, Food, Manufacturing, and Pharmaceutical, Axil continues to stand out as a leading provider of total waste management services.
Since the start in 2018, under Ed’s guidance, Axil has notched remarkable achievements, surpassing the 200-employee milestone and witnessing an extraordinary surge in revenue from £8 million to an impressive £34 million. An impressive 97% of our team takes immense pride in being part of Axil, reflecting the strong family culture ingrained within our organisation. This culture is deeply rooted in our commitment to exceptional customer service and continuous innovation. (2023 survey)
The East Midlands Leadership Awards, now in their sixth year, recognise and celebrate role models who lead businesses to new heights, making a positive impact on others and the world around them.
Ed’s leadership challenges waste management norms by emphasising sustainability, innovation, and waste segregation. His philosophy promotes empowerment, fostering a customer-focused culture where employees are encouraged to challenge norms and seek radical solutions.

Faye Perkins, Director of Marketing Operations at Axil comments,
“Ed truly deserves this recognition. His commitment to our team and maintaining our family culture amid growth has set Axil on a remarkable journey. The entire team is thrilled that Ed has been acknowledged for his dedication and positive impact. He leads by example, and we’re proud to be part of Axil’s success“
Ed’s commitment to empowerment extends to ownership, urging colleagues to view their roles as running their own franchise. This approach has cultivated a culture where colleagues are empowered to bring their ideas to the table, contributing to Axil’s innovative solutions.
The visionary approach challenges waste management norms, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and waste segregation.

In Ed’s words:
“This recognition belongs to every member of the Axil family. When we founded the business, we understood the importance of building the right team. Axil isn’t just a workplace; it’s an environment where skills, individuality, and personality are valued in our recruitment. We have come a long way since the days of our 34-strong office, and I am proud of the team’s dedicated efforts in transforming how we perceive waste and enhancing our environmental impact for our valued clients“
The Axil team extends congratulations to winner Shaun Gray of Ginho and all those who were shortlisted and emerged as winners at the East Midlands Leadership Awards.
The awards ceremony took place at the Crowne Plaza in Nottingham, attended by over 200 business leaders, and was a fantastic evening recognising and celebrating leadership excellence.