MEET THE ELITE TEAM


photo of Chris Smits
About Chris >
Chris gained valuable experience supplying fresh produce to leading UK supermarkets. Using his knowledge of managing supply chains in a dynamic industry defined by deadlines, Chris established Elite Recycling Solutions together with wife, Fiona, in 2007 and manages the business. Chris is an enthusiastic football fan who also coaches a local youth team – and he’s never deterred by challenges on or off the pitch!
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Chris Smits
Managing Director
photo of Fiona Smits
About Fiona >
Having graduated with an Agri-Food Business degree, Fiona developed exceptional skills in supply chain management while working for several large food and horticultural operations across the UK. As well as taking care of finances, Fiona is also involved in all other aspects of the business. The couple take care of three young children and a lively Labrador – which presents a logistical challenge in itself!
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Fiona Smits
Finance Director
photo of Rob Craddock
About Rob >
After graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Rob set off on a career in packaging manufacture before progressing to senior commercial roles within fast moving consumer goods. Rob brings to Elite his vast experience of supply chains, from raw materials to end product on shelf, in many different categories and with a diverse range of customers. Away from work Rob loves watching and playing all sports plus sharing happy times with his family.
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Rob Craddock
Business Development Director
photo of Alex McNair
About Alex >
After a degree at agricultural college, Alex developed his skills working in the fresh produce industry, subsequently working in the development of innovative new technologies that help and improve fresh produce supply chains. Alex enjoys problem solving and working with clients to find opportunities and deliver value. Outside of work he is passionate about cars and motorsport, as well as a keen mountain biker happy seeking out new and challenging trails to ride.
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Alex McNair
Business Development Manager
photo of Enda Browne
About Enda >
Having previously managed bars in London and Surrey, Enda has worked in roles sourcing sustainable packaging for fresh vegetables and more recently working to re-direct food waste from landfill to anaerobic digestion. Enda enjoys working with the like-minded problem solving Elite team to sustainably and economically assist companies to maximise their recycling volumes within the waste hierarchy. Away from work Enda loves sea fishing despite suffering from seasickness!!!
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Enda Browne
Business Development Manager
photo of Georgina Murfin
About Georgina >
Georgina has spent most of her career within the waste management sector. More recently, she moved to specialise in the procurement of paper and card, providing clients with a closed loop solution. Georgina brings an abundance of experience to Elite and, in collaboration with the wider team, offers greater innovative solutions. Away from work Georgina likes to travel and spend time with family and her adorable (although very sassy) Multipoo dogs Waffle and Crumpet.
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Georgina Murfin
Business Development Manager
photo of Guy Lapidge
About Guy >
After studying mathematics at University College London, Guy has served as an accountant within the construction and waste management sectors throughout his life. Since joining Elite in 2014, Guy has played an important part in helping the business grow. He is also an avid rock climber and hiker who spends most of his spare time scaling new heights.
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Guy Lapidge
Accounts Manager
photo of Suzi Schillaci
About Suzi >
Suzi studied Chemical Sciences at King's College, London but moved into banking and finance – working in client and finance management information (MI), and data quality for a number of years. Suzi is excited to be a part of the accounts team at Elite at this time of expansion and growth. Outside of work she enjoys Latin American and ballroom dancing and live jazz and looks forward to attending the summer season of BBC Proms concerts every year.
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Suzi Schillaci
Accounts Administrator
photo of Kurtis Hall
About Kurtis >
Having spent the majority of his career in operations management within the home improvement and transport industries, Kurtis is excited to bring a range of skills and experience to Elite. He enjoys the daily variety and the opportunity to overcome the challenges that come with working in operations and enjoys interacting with people. Outside of work Kurtis spends time cooking, socialising and trying (possibly failing) to train an adorable but frustratingly disobedient German Shepherd puppy.
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Kurtis Hall
Business Operations Manager
photo of Layla El-Shafi
About Layla >
Layla studied politics at the University of Westminster then worked in the hustle and bustle of the hospitality industry. At Elite Layla is a valued member of the operational team working hard to deliver our bespoke client services. Layla enjoys spending her time away from work visiting art galleries and museums and learning about different cultures. She is an avid foodie who loves to cook!
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Layla El-Shafi
Business Operations Coordinator
photo of Leah Hinds-Weir
About Leah >
Leah brings a wealth of operational experience to the Elite team from a background working primarily in Office Administration and with recent years being focused on education with both primary age and mature students. An avid True Crime documentary fan with a love also of puzzles and word games. Another Elite animal lover with two cats and four budgies at home and thrives on spending any spare time with family.
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Leah Hinds-Weir
Business Operations Administrator
photo of Abbey Holmes
About Abbey >
With a passion for both business and style, Abbey navigated the world of retail and administration with enthusiasm for over 12 years. Now looking to further develop her expertise in the realm of business operations, Abbey is excited about the opportunities to learn and grow with Elite. When not working, Abbey has little time to rest as being mum to two very mischievous, chaotic and hungry little boys keeps her on her toes. She’s always ready to hand out the snacks!
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Abbey Holmes
Business Operations Assistant
photo of Lucy Willmott
About Lucy >
Lucy has over 10 years of experience in administration and operations. As a mum of two young children keeping her very busy, in her little spare time she can be found in the gym or planning a trip to new places around the world. Lucy is always looking for new challenges to tackle and regularly takes part in charity fundraising. Her most recent accomplishment was summiting Mount Snowdon for prostate Cancer Research.
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Lucy Willmott
Business Operations Assistant