As Chief Technology Officer and Executive Director of Clean Energy Resources Geelong (CERG), Sean Jacobs is deeply involved in the End-of-Life (EOL) tyres industry, driving innovation in sustainable waste management solutions by transforming EOL Tyres into Clean Hydrogen without waste or emissions. CERG’s goal is to turn the world’s waste into clean hydrogen, electricity, and zero-emission byproducts, starting with 1.5 billion tires.
Driving Innovation and Sustainability Through Technology
Sean’s leadership experience spans 25+ years across diverse industries, from startups to multinationals, and his technical and business acumen is bolstered by advanced degrees and certifications, driving CERG’s technological advancements. He has played a key role in the development and execution of a cutting-edge demonstration plant project, leveraging advanced technology to transform EOL tyres into valuable recycled materials.
With an MBA and CISM certification, Sean specializes in aligning technology with business objectives, fostering collaboration, and delivering high-quality outcomes for stakeholders. His passion for innovation and sustainability drives him to push the boundaries of what’s possible in tyre recycling and resource recovery.
Sean has applied his expertise to integrate smart technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency, data security, and compliance within the recycling sector. His strategic leadership has contributed to optimizing process automation, improving supply chain visibility, and ensuring adherence to industry regulations.
“Innovation isn’t just about being clever – it’s about being responsible. The best tech solves real problems and leaves a legacy worth replicating.”
Leading with Clarity, Purpose, and Impact
Reflecting on his journey into technology leadership and his current role at CERG, Sean recalls that he was “always drawn to solving problems that matter.” Early on, he saw how technology could be a force for good – especially in tackling environmental challenges. That spark led him and the other founders to build CERG from the ground up.
“I didn’t just want to innovate; I wanted to create systems that could be replicated across borders and actually move the needle on sustainability. Today, I get to lead a team that’s turning waste into energy and ideas into infrastructure. It’s the kind of work that keeps you up at night – in the best way,” he observes.
As a big believer in clarity, integrity, and long-term thinking, Sean insists that if a solution isn’t scalable or doesn’t align with circular economy principles, it’s not worth pursuing. “I’ve learned that innovation isn’t just about being clever – it’s about being responsible. Whether I’m navigating regulations or designing modular facilities, I always ask: ‘Will this still make sense in five years? Will it serve the community?’ That mindset keeps me grounded and focused,” he explains.
Clarity is the primary guiding principle that helps him navigate both professional challenges and personal growth. “Clarity builds trust. Whether I’m leading a team, pitching to investors, or making a tough call, I aim for clarity – in my vision, my words, and my actions. It’s the foundation of good leadership and good relationships. And it’s what helps me sleep at night,” he shares.
“Clarity builds trust. Whether you’re leading a team or pitching a vision, clear intent is your strongest currency.”
Turning Waste Tyres Into Clean Energy Solutions
Every year, 1.5 billion tyres are discarded. Most end up incinerated, buried in a landfill, or processed into low-quality by-products, all of which create massive amounts of toxic greenhouse gases and environmental harm. CERG transforms end-of-life tyres into valuable reusable materials while producing clean energy, eliminating waste to landfill, and aligning with global sustainability goals.
Using advanced zero-emission technology like microwave plasma pyrolysis, CERG converts tyres into 99.97% pure hydrogen, high-purity carbon black, acetic acid, and green electricity, all with minimal residue, transforming waste into clean hydrogen, creating a powerful solution for renewable energy.
CERG is leading the way in clean energy innovation, driving toward a more sustainable future with cutting-edge technology that provides a sustainable way to legally dispose of end-of-life tyres, ensuring environmental compliance while also supplying 100% clean, emission-free hydrogen and electricity.
In terms of innovation, Sean is excited about the intersection of carbon black, graphene, and hydrogen – especially when it’s powered by problematic waste like end-of-life tyres. “It’s not just innovative; it’s regenerative. CERG is building modular facilities that turn waste into high-value exports, and we’re layering in AI to optimize operations and carbon credit monetization. We’re not just keeping up – we’re helping shape what’s next,” he declares.
“Modular thinking isn’t just an engineering principle – it’s a mindset. Build systems that scale, adapt, and empower others to lead.”
Balancing Innovation, Leadership, and Life
As CTO of CERG, Sean notes that no two days are the same, but they all start with coffee and a clear plan. Mornings are usually technical – reviewing systems, refining models, making sure their compliance docs are airtight. Afternoons shift toward leadership: investor calls, team check-ins, and strategic planning across their projects in Turkey, Vietnam, and Australia. “I stay hands-on with the tech because it keeps me sharp, but I also make space to listen, guide, and empower the team. It’s a balancing act, but one I genuinely enjoy,” he shares.
Admitting that work-life integration isn’t easy, Sean notes that he has learned to integrate rather than separate. “When your work aligns with your values, it becomes part of who you are – not something you clock in and out of. I make time for reflection, for family, and for the occasional chill out in front of the fire. And I try to be fully present – whether I’m in a boardroom or at a barbecue. That’s what keeps me balanced,” he affirms.
Building Global Impact Through Resilient Leadership
On his path to leadership, expanding CERG commercially and internationally was a task that Sean found most challenging. “Every country has its own regulatory maze, and getting our infrastructure aligned with local policies takes patience, precision, and a lot of late nights. But it taught me the value of adaptability and trust – trust in the process, in your team, and in the mission. That experience isn’t just shaping me as a leader; it’s making me more resilient and much more strategic,” he notes.
One achievement that Sean is most proud of in his career was the milestone of launching CERG and expanding into international joint ventures. It proved that its model – clean, modular, and scalable – could work across cultures and climates. In addition, their partnerships in Turkey and Vietnam can potentially influence policy and are now attracting global interest. “Seeing something you’ve built spark change at that level? That’s the kind of moment you hold onto,” he muses.
Aligning Technology, People, and Purpose
Sean ensures that CERG’s technology strategy aligns with its broader business goals and customer needs by “really listening” to its stakeholders, partners, and customers. Then they reverse-engineer their tech strategy to fit those needs, while ensuring that every system they build is designed to be compliant, scalable, and export-ready. “We also keep a close eye on market shifts and regulatory updates to make sure we’re not just aligned – we’re ahead,” he states.
Within his tech teams, Sean leads with curiosity and openness to foster a culture of creativity and collaboration. “I want people to feel safe bringing bold ideas to the table – even if they’re a little half-baked. We develop modular systems, so every team member owns a piece of the puzzle. That ownership fuels creativity. I also encourage cross-pollination – engineers talking to strategists, designers bouncing ideas off compliance leads. When people feel heard and trusted, collaboration becomes second nature,” he elaborates.
“True leadership is knowing when to architect the solution – and when to step back and let others build it better.”
Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
Sean shares that mentorship plays a huge role in his professional life. “I’ve had mentors who helped me see around corners, and now I try to do the same for others. At CERG, we pair junior team members with experienced leads, but we also flip the script – encouraging younger voices to challenge our thinking. I want the next generation to feel empowered, not intimidated. They’re not just the future – they’re the present,” he reflects.
To aspiring CTOs or tech entrepreneurs looking to make a meaningful impact, Sean offers the following words of wisdom: “Start with purpose. Don’t just build cool stuff – build things that solve real problems. Learn the regulatory ropes, design for scale, and communicate like your future depends on it. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, and stay humble. The tech world moves fast, but impact takes time. Be patient, be bold, and stay curious.”
Conclusion
Through his work at CERG and in the tech industry at large, Sean Jacobs hopes to leave behind a blueprint – something others can pick up, adapt, and scale. A legacy of infrastructure that’s clean, circular, and community-driven. He hopes to leave a legacy where CERG becomes a reference point for how tech can serve both profit and planet. “If I’ve helped shift the narrative from extraction to regeneration, I’ll consider that a win,” he concludes.
