As CEO of South Post Oak Recycling Center (SPORC), Brandi Harleaux is a distinguished leader in the recycling industry, championing sustainable procurement and environmental stewardship. With over 25 years of executive experience, she has adeptly transformed SPORC into a cornerstone of sustainability, significantly influencing global procurement practices with innovative approaches to recycling.

With over 25 years of experience, Brandi has navigated the complex challenges of running a second-generation family business, driving it to new heights of success. Her strategic foresight was particularly evident during the challenging periods of the COVID-19 pandemic, where she not only retained all her employees but expanded her team by 25%, demonstrating exceptional resilience and dedication to her staff.

Under her leadership, SPORC has become a beacon of sustainable procurement. The company not only plays a crucial role in reducing landfill waste but also bolsters the sustainability of supply chains by effectively recovering and repurposing recyclable materials. This strategy not only contributes to environmental preservation but also provides a competitive edge by minimizing costs and ensuring material availability.

Brandi’s commitment to sustainability is mirrored in her strategic initiatives, which have propelled SPORC to substantial growth—a 60% increase in sales post-2020.

A renowned speaker and thought leader, Brandi regularly imparts her expertise on topics such as innovation in metal recycling, leadership, diversity, and the integration of STEM education into recycling. This further demonstrates her dedication to cultivating the next generation of leaders in environmentalism and supply chain management.

Her accolades, including the 2023 Texas Small Businessperson of the Year and the 2020 ISRI Young Executive of the Year, underscore her pioneering efforts in sustainable procurement. As a mentor at The University of Houston Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship and the Lakewood Church Business Ministry, she invests in nurturing the next generation, equipping them to break barriers and excel in their endeavors.

Educated at the University of Houston, California State University, and Pepperdine University, Brandi’s academic pursuits in psychology, business administration, and industrial-organizational psychology, along with her certifications in leadership and financial management, offer her a unique perspective on the interplay between business operations and human behavior.

Brandi’s influence extends through her service on various boards, including the City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity Advisory Board and the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries. She advocates for sustainable and recycling-friendly policies and practices. Her dedication also reaches into social realms, including anti-human trafficking and autism awareness, highlighting her commitment to using business as a force for societal benefit.

As a mentor and proponent of purpose-driven business, Brandi inspires procurement professionals to embrace innovation, ensuring their operations leave a positive, enduring impact on the environment and the industry at large.