The U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors announced Wednesday that David Steiner, former CEO of Waste Management, has been selected as the 76th Postmaster General and CEO of the USPS. Pending background and ethics checks, Steiner is expected to assume leadership in July, succeeding former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and Acting Postmaster General Doug Tulino.
A Seasoned Leader Takes the Helm
Steiner, a veteran executive with a track record of corporate transformation, will oversee the Postal Service at a pivotal moment as it implements its 10-year Delivering for America modernization plan. The agency, which delivers to 169 million addresses nationwide, has faced financial strain, operational challenges, and political scrutiny in recent years.
“Dave is the right person to lead the Postal Service at this time to ensure this magnificent and historic organization thrives into the future,” said Amber McReynolds, chair of the Board of Governors. “He brings tremendous vision, experience, and skill to meet the Postal Service’s long-term mission and business needs.”
Steiner, who spent 12 years as president and CEO of Waste Management, is credited with revitalizing the company’s operations, expanding its environmental services, and improving financial performance. In a statement, he called the appointment an “incredible honor” and pledged to uphold the USPS’s universal service mandate while ensuring fiscal sustainability.
Commitment to Public Service and Workforce
“I deeply admire the public service and business mission of this amazing institution,” Steiner said. “I look forward to engaging with employees, unions, and policymakers to create a vibrant and competitive future for the Postal Service.”
As the largest employer of unionized workers in the U.S., the Postal Service’s labor relations will be a key focus for Steiner. He emphasized collaboration with unions and management to strengthen workforce morale and operational efficiency.
Before joining Waste Management, Steiner held executive roles in finance and legal strategy and served as a partner at law firm Phelps Dunbar. He currently sits on the boards of FedEx, Vulcan Materials, and recycling automation company AMP but will step down from his FedEx position before assuming his USPS role.
Challenges and Next Steps
The Postal Service, which operates without taxpayer funding, has struggled with declining mail volume and rising costs. Steiner’s corporate turnaround experience will be tested as he works to stabilize finances while maintaining reliable service.
The Board of Governors, which conducted the search with executive firm Egon Zehnder, expressed confidence in Steiner’s ability to balance these demands. Once finalized, his leadership will shape the agency’s future amid evolving mail demands and digital competition.
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Pending clearance approvals, Steiner will take office in July, with Tulino returning to his role as Deputy Postmaster General. Observers will be watching closely to see how Steiner navigates the Postal Service’s next chapter.
“I’m excited by the challenges ahead,” Steiner said. “Together, we can build a durable and competitive future for this essential American institution.”
The Senate-confirmed Board of Governors will oversee his transition as the USPS continues its decade-long modernization efforts.