On 1 September, Casey Martin stepped into her new role as Operations Manager – Residential in Wellington, leading a team of more than 20 people. This promotion marks the latest milestone in a remarkable 12-year journey with WM New Zealand, showcasing her dedication, resilience, and commitment to teamwork.
Casey first joined WM New Zealand as a kiosk operator at the Seaview Transfer Station, managing the weighbridge and keeping the site running smoothly. “I loved the customer contact, getting to know the regulars, answering questions, and even stepping in on site thanks to my forklift licence,” she says. That role sparked her passion for problem-solving and teamwork — qualities that would define her career.
After seven years, Casey moved into the role of Dispatch Coordinator, which she had long hoped for.
“Something would come up and I needed to fix it. That’s what I enjoyed most,” she explains.
From investigating missed bins to reviewing ERoad data with drivers, she worked to ensure every job was completed efficiently, honing her operational skills and earning a reputation for reliability and support.
Casey’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2023, while on maternity leave with her son Ezra, her three-year-old daughter Skylah was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. After multiple rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and treatment in the United States, Skylah is now cancer-free.
“Once you’ve faced something like that, there’s nothing you can’t take on,” Casey reflects. “The support of my WM whānau made all the difference. From check-ins to fundraisers, I felt reassured that work could wait while I focused on my family.” This experience has given her a new sense of perspective, resilience, and gratitude — qualities she now brings to her leadership role.
Before her official promotion, Casey acted in an operations management capacity, coordinating across teams, balancing workloads, and supporting staff to get the job done. “
That experience gave me the confidence to apply for this role,” she says, “and the encouragement I received from colleagues and drivers helped seal the decision.”
She credits the guidance and mentorship of others along the way.
"Sarah Whiteman and Tracy Reuben showed me what’s possible for women in operations, and Des Fell and Johan Bezuidenhout pushed me toward my goals. Their belief in me has been instrumental.”
Now leading her own residential operations team, Casey is embracing the bigger picture while continuing to prioritise teamwork and support. “Keep going and back yourself,” she advises other women at WM New Zealand.
“This is a fantastic industry with so many opportunities — you really can do anything. And along the way, look for mentors who can guide and support you.”
Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and stepping up to every challenge that came her way. Over the years, Casey has built a reputation for problem-solving, supporting others, and inspiring confidence — qualities that made her the natural choice for her new role.
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