At Alfred H Knight, we believe that expertise is the foundation of exceptional service. Today, we’re spotlighting Chihiro Anzai-Vernaudon, Commercial Manager for Circular Economy, whose background in scrap metal procurement and trade brings a unique perspective and skill set to AHK.

CHIHIRO’S INTRODUCTION TO THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY SECTOR

“During my previous role at a Japanese trading company, I worked in scrap metal procurement as a raw material for end users,” Chihiro explains. “I became fascinated by the concept of urban mining and the global shift from a linear economy to a circular economy.”

INSIDE THE ROLE: A DAY IN CHIHIRO’S CIRCULAR ECONOMY WORLD

Every day begins with tracking market news and evolving trends. “I start my mornings by reviewing the latest industry developments,” she says. “In my role, I identify opportunities, monitor market trends, and share insights with our business development team to align market needs with our expertise and capabilities.”

TURNING INDUSTRY CHALLENGES INTO OPPORTUNITIES

One key challenge Chihiro notes involves international regulations, particularly the Basel Convention’s pre-informed consent process, which governs the movement of recyclable materials across borders. “Clients often request sampling and analysis of heterogeneous materials, which requires close coordination between the market and our technical teams.”

Tim Johnson, Patrick Le Mare, Rachel Carberry, and Chihiro Anzai-Vernaudon.

“A way we overcome these challenges is through strategically placed global hubs,” Chihiro says. “Our services include quantity determination, material-appropriate sampling, and chemical analysis, helping clients navigate complex recycled material streams effectively.”

DRIVING CLIENT SUCCESS AND INDUSTRY STANDARDS

“We help clients reduce risks related to material quality and global trading,” Chihiro explains. “I see AHK playing a crucial role in capturing opportunities while contributing to a more sustainable industrial model rooted in the Circular Economy.”

WHAT DRIVES CHIHIRO IN THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY INDUSTRY

Chihiro finds inspiration in collaboration: “I truly value working with a diverse team of professionals, chemists, geologists, and sampling experts. This allows me to bring a broader perspective to the industry.”

Her passion for sustainability also fuels professional development. Most recently, she strengthened her expertise by achieving Certified Basic Decarbonization Advisor status (issued by the Ministry of Environment, Japan).

INDEPENDENT SUPPORT FROM AN INDUSTRY EXPERT

With over 140 years of expertise in Metals and Minerals, Alfred H Knight combines technical excellence with a deep understanding of the Circular Economy. Our global network helps organisations build accurate, data-driven profiles of their recycled material streams, optimising processes, ensuring compliance, and driving sustainable growth.

Contact our team to see how we can help you unlock value from your circular economy initiatives.