‘Michael shaped the standards guiding Ward Recycling’

UK metals recycler Michael Ward has died after a battle with motor neurone disease (MND). He was third generation to lead Ward Recycling and dedicated more than five decades of his life to the Ward business and the industry.

Beginning his career in his early twenties, Michael Ward worked alongside his brother David to grow and shape the business into the company it is today. ‘Through their leadership, commitment and vision, the pair helped transform Ward into a modern, multi-site business while maintaining the strong family values that have always been at its heart,’ the company says on LinkedIn.

Hard work and loyalty

Throughout his time with Ward, Michael played a significant role in ‘shaping the culture, standards and ways of working that continue to guide the company today’. His belief in hard work, loyalty and investing in people helped create a business that supports hundreds of employees and the communities in which it operates.

Honoured by BMRA

Michael’s contribution to the industry extended far beyond the company itself. After more than 50 years in the sector, he was honoured by the British Metal Recycling Association with a service award, recognising his long-standing dedication and the impact he had across the industry.

Proud moment

One of his ‘proudest moments’ was representing Ward when the company received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Excellence in International Trade, one of the UK’s most prestigious business honours. ‘Accepting the award at Buckingham Palace was a milestone not only for Michael but for the entire Ward team,’ says the company.

Legacy lives on

Beyond the business, Michael Ward was deeply respected by colleagues, customers and friends alike. Family was always central to everything he did and he took great pride in seeing the next generation become involved in the business and continuing the legacy that began many decades ago.

‘Michael’s influence on Ward, its people, customers, suppliers and the industry more broadly will not be forgotten. His legacy lives on through the company he helped build and the generations that will continue to carry it forward. For Ward and its customers, as was Michael’s wish, it will be business as usual for the team as they continue with ambitious growth plans for the year ahead.’

‘Cruel disease’

His son, operations director Donald Ward will be running the London Marathon in April to raise funds to help find a cure for MND – ‘a cruel disease that has a devastating impact on families’.