Professional Role and Responsibilities
Derek Carlson serves as Vice President of Finance and Contracts at MarBorg Industries, a family-owned solid waste management company operating primarily in Santa Barbara County, California. He has held this position since at least 1996, accumulating over 29 years of experience with MarBorg. In his capacity, Carlson manages financial operations and contractual negotiations for the company’s services, which include residential, commercial, recycling, organics, and special waste collection.
Company Overview and Market Position
MarBorg Industries has been serving Santa Barbara County for over 75 years under the leadership of the Borgatello family, with Derek Carlson recognized as one of the key principals alongside Brian and Anthony Borgatello. The company leads in local market coverage for residential and commercial waste and recycling collection, including exclusive solid waste franchise contracts for various county zones.
In July 2023, under Derek Carlson’s leadership, MarBorg secured a 10-year solid waste hauling contract for five unincorporated North County zones starting July 1, 2024. This contract expanded MarBorg’s service area beyond its existing South County Zones and several cities including Buellton, Goleta, and Santa Barbara. MarBorg won this contract by offering a 5.3% lower operating rate compared to the incumbent provider, Waste Management (WM).
Notable Achievements and Industry Impact
- Successfully managed the transition process when MarBorg replaced WM as the service provider in multiple zones, assuring the county board and stakeholders of a smooth operational transition. Carlson personally committed to offering affected WM employees employment with MarBorg, maintaining their seniority and benefits, highlighting MarBorg’s dedication to workforce stability.
- Oversaw the replacement of traditional waste cans with wheeled carts in Santa Barbara city service areas as part of modernization efforts in waste collection, a process ongoing as of 2025.
- Provided leadership in the development of a $40 million recycling center in Santa Barbara aimed at significantly reducing waste sent to regional landfills, demonstrating involvement in strategic investments toward sustainable waste management solutions.
Educational Background and Skills
- Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara (1991-1995).
- Completed a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership (1996-1998) at Antioch University Santa Barbara.
- Past coursework also includes studies at The Ohio State University and in accounting, providing a diverse academic foundation aligned with his finance and operational role.
- Recognized for a robust skill set encompassing financial management, contract negotiation, and organizational leadership.
Industry Reputation and Community Involvement
- Known for his active participation in local governance and regulatory processes, regularly addressing county boards and supervisors regarding MarBorg’s bids and contract compliance.
- Integral in maintaining MarBorg’s reputation as a responsible and community-focused waste management provider with strong local ties.
- Has been publicly cited assuring commitments to community stakeholders and employees during contract transitions, displaying transparency and community accountability.
Contact and Representation
- Listed as the contractor representative for MarBorg Industries in official franchise agreements, including recent contracts with the City of Santa Barbara.
- Contact telephone associated with professional representation is (805) 963-1852.
This profile presents Derek Carlson as a senior executive with deep institutional knowledge of MarBorg’s operations, financial stewardship, and community engagement. His leadership in securing and managing significant multi-year contracts, combined with his commitment to workforce transition and sustainability initiatives, position him as a pivotal figure in MarBorg’s continued growth and local market leadership.
