In Conversation with Vikki Jackson-Smith, J&B Recycling

Discover the remarkable journey of award-winning business leader Vikki Jackson-Smith at our exclusive entrepreneur-only event – with limited spaces and a rare behind-the-scenes tour of J&B Recycling’s cutting-edge site this is an event not to be missed.

As CEO and founder of the nationally recognised J&B Recycling, Vikki has built a career on turning challenges into opportunities and waste into a multi-million-pound enterprise.

From weighing coal lorries as a teenager to running a multi-site operation employing over 200 people and processing 200,000 tonnes of waste a year, her story is one of grit, growth and green innovation. In 1998, she seized the decline of her family’s solid fuel business as an opportunity to pivot into recycling, safeguarding jobs and building a company that would go on to become one of the UK’s leading independent waste management firms.

Under her leadership, J&B developed state-of-the-art facilities, secured investment from BGF to accelerate growth, and was later acquired by one of the world’s largest waste management companies. Most recently, Vikki was named Female Business Leader of the Year at the British Business Awards 2025, recognising her outstanding contribution to UK business and sustainability.

Why Attend?

Spotting Opportunity in Change
Learn how Vikki identified shifting market conditions and emerging legislation as an opportunity and used them to build a future-facing, resilient business.

Scaling with Purpose
From securing investment to managing large teams and infrastructure, gain insights into what it takes to scale a business sustainably while staying true to your values.

Leading Through Transition
Hear real-world lessons on navigating industry transformation, building credibility and staying adaptable as markets, technologies and customer needs evolve.

Whether you’re scaling your business, seeking inspiration for transformation or want to hear from one of the North East’s most successful female entrepreneurs, Vikki’s story is one of fearless ambition, visionary growth and a legacy of transformation. Come ready to be inspired!

The Small Print

Due to limited capacity this event is exclusively for entrepreneur members only. Guests or substitutions are not allowed.