John Freedman, President Joseph Freedman Co., Inc.

Professional History/Business:

After graduating from the University of Rochester, I began my work career in NYC with a boutique securities firm on the American Stock exchange as an independent equity options market maker. I enjoyed everything about trading except it became clear to me over time that technology was taking away the arbitrage opportunities that had previously existed and while trading was very rewarding and enjoyable, it wasn’t the same as building a business for the future. After about six years I left NY and moved back to the Springfield area to begin working in my family’s scrap metal recycling business (Joseph Freedman Co., Inc.), which at the time had 37 employees and a single facility. The company dates to 1891 and I am currently the 4th generation owner/President – my son Harrison is now in the business as the 5th generation begins. 

Through organic growth & several acquisitions we now have 5 different operating companies, including an international brokerage division, and @120 employees –making us the oldest and largest independently owned scrap metal recycler in New England. We specialize in tailoring custom metal recycling programs for manufacturers to create in-house operational savings and improved revenue. Additionally, we purchase all types of scrap metals throughout New England from a multitude of sources including: other metal dealers, recyclers, municipalities, utilities and demolition contractors - including obsolete scrap, scrap vehicles and any type of metal. We also offer plant clean outs, certified parts destruction, rigging, demolition services and mobile shear services via our own fleet of heavy-duty trucks & equipment. We plan to continue to grow our operations and maintain our focus on elevating our company’s culture and providing best in class service and transparency for our customers.

Family:

My wife Erika & I recently celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. We have three adult children: Josh 29, financial career in NY. Harrison 27, recently engaged and working in the family business. Marni 22, graduating College of Charleston this spring. We are all very close and have always enjoyed skiing, boating, and travel together – as well as cooking together & sharing as many meals together as possible.

Memorable YPO Experience:

I’ve enjoyed both my personal & spousal experience in YPO. We have a tremendous group of members in our chapter and getting to know as many as I have has truly been a gift. As far as best experiences I would clearly say that the annual trips abroad have been exceptional as they have provided the time and space away from daily life to enable both myself & Erika to spend time with and really get to know many of the members & spouses. All the trips have been great, but I would have to say that Peter Wirth’s trip to Germany takes the cake – while Oktoberfest itself was a blast, especially with the lederhosen & dirndls – touring the countryside, castles, museums and Mercedes AMG factory coupled with the all the meals and cocktails with everyone was a very special time together and exceptionally well planned by Peter.