Green Machine Computers, an award-winning IT recycling firm based in Swindon, is entering a new chapter with the appointment of two exceptional leaders. Natalie King-Barnard has been promoted to Managing Director, and Marie Crisp, the wife of company founder Simon Crisp, will step into the role of Director of Operations. This marks an exciting moment for Green Machine, which has been at the forefront of sustainable IT solutions since its inception in 2011.
These changes are groundbreaking in an industry where women occupy just 29% of roles, with even fewer in senior leadership positions. Green Machine is proud to buck this trend, proving that the IT sector is ripe for change and innovation.
Simon Crisp, who founded Green Machine after being made redundant in his role at IBM, reflects on the journey with pride. “I started Green Machine because I was frustrated seeing perfectly good PCs and laptops being discarded by large companies. There was a better way – one that securely wiped, refurbished and redistributed tech to those who needed it most. Over the years, this vision has grown into something far bigger, and I couldn’t have done it without the support of Marie and the incredible team we’ve built.”
Marie has been instrumental in supporting Simon’s bold vision from day one, while Natalie’s rapid rise through the company highlights her dedication and passion for Green Machine’s mission. Natalie joined the team in 2020 and has since become a driving force behind the business. Simon recalls the moment he knew Natalie was the right person to lead Green Machine: “I watched her speak passionately about our mission at a conference, and her words gave me goosebumps. She gets it. She lives and breathes what Green Machine is all about.”
Reflecting on her new role, Natalie said: “I’m thrilled to take on this role and build on the solid foundation Simon has created. Green Machine has positively impacted countless lives, and I’m determined to continue driving this momentum forward. The need for secure IT recycling is growing, and businesses and individuals are waking up to the catastrophic consequences of e-waste. It’s a privilege to be leading a company that is tackling this issue head-on.”
Green Machine’s impact speaks for itself. Over the years, the company has processed millions of devices, diverted countless tonnes of e-waste from landfill, and donated thousands of refurbished devices to charities and people in need. Through its partnered CIC, The Tech Hub Project, Green Machine has supported organisations including Ukrainian refugees, Youth Adventure Trust, and Olive Branch Counselling.
This year alone, Green Machine processed over 23,000 items of IT equipment, surpassing last year’s record-breaking numbers. The company also won the Excellence in Sustainability Award at the Thames Valley Business Awards in July, adding to its legacy of accolades, including back-to-back wins for Commitment to the Community in previous years.
As Simon steps back to focus on new ventures – including running The Crown, a historic pub in Aldbourne – he leaves Green Machine in the capable hands of Natalie and Marie. Simon’s vision for a more sustainable, tech-conscious future will live on through Green Machine’s continued efforts to reshape the IT recycling industry and combat e-waste.
The future of Green Machine is brighter than ever. With new leadership and a passionate team, the company is poised to expand its reach and make an even greater impact on the planet, one recycled device at a time.