Redwood Materials, a major player in battery recycling, has recently faced an industry-wide downturn and subsequent restructuring. This shift led to the immediate lay off of 1/10th of its staff, affecting roughly 135 employees. This decision coincides with the company’s continued effort to focus its business operations and more effectively compete for longtime market share. That’s because JB Straubel, the founder and CEO of battery recycling startup, Redwood Materials, knows exactly what winning looks like. He noted that it required a more laser-focused team in order to prioritize the most consequential projects.
The cuts come at the heels of other high-profile departures by the company’s big wigs. This goes for Lister, the Chief Operating Officer, who helped guide the daily administration since late 2023. Lister moved from chief supply chain officer to chief operating officer in 2024. His resignation indicates growing leadership changes at Redwood Materials. Other high-profile exits—including Bradley Mayhew, former vice president of integrated supply chain and Carlos Lozano, former vice president of manufacturing—have taken flight from the company.
In other major news, Redwood Materials recently won contracts with automaker Rivian and artificial intel firm Crusoe. Combined, these deals will add to the company’s capacity to supply refurbished batteries for grid storage applications. The strategic collaborations highlight Redwood’s focus on increasing its market presence as it works through recent turmoil.
JB Straubel addressed the current state of the company, stating, “Parts of the company have expanded faster than needed. We are confident that we can deliver on our critical projects with a smaller team that is more focused.” All of his comments suggest a surprisingly flexible approach. More importantly, this strategy seeks to address structural market changes that have created a highly difficult environment for many of its industry competitors.
The restructuring and layoffs are part of a broader effort to ensure Redwood Materials remains competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. The firm has quickly made a name for itself as a leader in battery recycling, with an eye toward a sustainable future through innovation. By streamlining its processes and making 10 percent or more of its workforce redundant, Redwood hopes to remain on the path to growth and resiliency.
Even with the recent changes, Redwood Materials still remains focused on its ever-growing mission to deliver sustainable energy solutions. The exit of influential executives such as Lister and Mayhew introduces uncertainty around the company’s future strategic direction and leadership culture.
“We wish him the best in his retirement.” – Redwood Materials spokesperson
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