The AZEK Company ranked No. 5 on the 2025 Real Leaders Top Impact Companies list for decking out homes in an eco-friendly style.
The AZEK Company is an industry-leading designer and manufacturer of beautiful, low-maintenance, and environmentally sustainable outdoor living products. Recognized as a leader in innovation, quality, aesthetics, and sustainability, its products are made from up to 85% recycled material, providing a long-lasting, eco-friendly, and stylish solution to consumers. Here, The AZEK Company President and CEO Jesse Singh shares his knowledge and experience with Real Leaders.
Real Leaders: How do you thrive in the impact space?
Jesse Singh: We thrive by staying true to our core purpose, which is to revolutionize outdoor living. Our decisions are centered on creating long-lasting products that reduce environmental impact, while enhancing the beauty, functionality, and resilience of outdoor living spaces. By transforming waste into opportunity, we use up to 85% recycled waste and scrap materials to manufacture products across our portfolio, which enhances our commitment to sustainability and circularity.
RL: What milestones have you achieved this year?
Singh: This year we set a new industry standard by becoming the first to earn an Ignition Resistant designation from California’s state fire marshal. Our products offer top-rated fire resistance and are made with an increasing amount of recycled waste and scrap material.
RL: What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome?
Singh: Historical biases around synthetic materials still exist in the built environment. As we continue to expand and engage the market in a broader way, we are increasingly optimistic about the long-term opportunity for growth and material conversion away from wood and toward our types of materials. Our success is evidenced by a 10-year track record of delivering double-digit compound annual growth in net sales. This positions us to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable materials.
RL: What is your best strategy for finding investors?
Singh: Communicate your vision clearly and demonstrate tangible results. Building strong relationships and maintaining transparency helps attract the right investors. Getting your story out there — whether at conferences, trade shows, virtual webcasts, or in-person meetings — creates valuable opportunities to engage with new potential investors.
RL: What is your long-term, mission-oriented dream?
Singh: Our long-term dream is to lead the building products industry toward a fully circular economy, where waste is eliminated and most of our materials come from recycled or renewable sources. We aim to inspire a broader shift across industries toward sustainable practices that positively impact both people and the planet.
RL: What is your best advice for fellow impact CEOs?
Singh: Stay focused on your big ambition while creating a maniacal focus on execution. Hold fast to your mission and values, especially when challenges arise; authenticity resonates with customers, employees, and investors. Prioritize delivering real, measurable impact and embrace innovation. Do not be afraid to take calculated risks. Building a strong, purpose-driven team is also crucial; surround yourself with passionate, experienced individuals who share your vision and are committed to delivering results and making an impact.
