Craig Cinelli

Craig Cinelli is a dedicated professional and philanthropist from Allendale, New Jersey. Not only is he deeply engaged in his professional life, but he also finds fulfillment in his passion for long-distance running, specializing in marathons and half marathons.

In January 2017, Craig embarked on a new chapter by joining Eastern Recycling Services Corp, a prominent scrap metal company that operates locally and nationally. Notably, the company is a certified Women’s Business Enterprise member, owned proudly by Craig’s wife. Craig assumes a crucial role in Operations, overseeing daily activities such as account management, financial decisions, planning, performance monitoring, risk management, and reporting.

Craig’s enthusiasm for the scrap recycling industry is palpable, and his dedication extends beyond his professional responsibilities. He served as the NJ chapter president (2005-2007) for the Institute of Scrap Recycling (ISRI) and continues to seek opportunities to contribute to similar organizations. Throughout the years, Craig has actively participated on various boards, many linked to his church, the Guardian Angel Church in Allendale, or the town, including the Pastoral Counsel and the Heritage Fund Committee.
Local community engagement is close to Craig’s heart, evident in his involvement with the Carnival Committee and other local boards. His operational expertise seamlessly aligns with these roles, allowing him to make a meaningful impact on different aspects of the organizations he supports.

Giving back has always been a core value for Craig, reflected in his extensive volunteer work with numerous nonprofit organizations. He previously garnered attention for donating gym equipment to Northern Highlands Regional High School. Beyond philanthropy, Craig combines his love for running with charitable causes, completing over twenty marathons and half marathons, raising funds, and creating lasting memories.

In the marathon world, Craig’s journey has seen highs and lows. From pushing a wheelchair-bound racer through the New York Marathon to participating in the 2013 Boston Marathon, marked by tragedy, Craig’s resilience and passion for running remained unshaken.
With each stride, Craig Cinelli continues to make a positive impact, leaving an indelible mark on both the professional and philanthropic realms. As he looks toward the future, there’s no doubt that his contributions to community and charity will only continue growing.
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What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

My typical day starts by checking my calendar. Then, I prepare for what’s to come with an early cup of coffee.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I bring new ideas to life by doing extensive research.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I like the evolution of new things. I enjoy seeing progression and innovation.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

I am a workout enthusiast. Working out is key to positivity.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would advise a younger self that things always work out no matter how hard things may seem at the time.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you.

I think that the older generation was the greatest generation.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

I recommend that people continue to parent their children no matter how old they are.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

My Faith and Prayers often pull me through times when I’m overwhelmed.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

I believe being persistent, and not giving up is the best strategy for building a business.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

I was a minority owner in a family business. I had no say in the way the company was operated. It was after separating, that I had the most success in business.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Buy property. Don’t rent. Own your property if possible.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

I am useless without my iPhone and my emails. I am very accessible and provide prompt responses to my customers. Without my phone, I would be crippled.

What is the best $100 you recently spent?

Buying fish at a pet store. Not so much the money, but the time with my son.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast from which you’ve received much value?

My favorite book is Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. His story of building the Nike brand is very inspiring.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I enjoy Curb Your Enthusiasm because I think everyone has a little Larry David in them. I know I do.

Key learnings:

• Stay true to your values to help you through the hard times.
• Taking risks can lead to great rewards.
• Work hard and don’t give up.