The CSA Way

J.T. Marburger founded Circular Solutions Advisors in 2018 with a vision for helping companies do good both for the planet and their business.

As CEO, he has designed recycling and upcycling circular economies for some of America’s best-known companies, including The Coca-Cola Company, Adidas, Delta Airlines and Hilton Hotels; major sporting events such as the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four basketball tournaments, the PGA and Major League Soccer; colleges and universities, health systems and municipalities.

For more than 20 years, Marburger has demonstrated expertise in implementing sustainable practices across diverse sectors. He has led textile-focused circular economy companies specializing in branded products from recycled commodities. He currently owns and leases air jig patented technology plants to better separate recycling commodities from contamination.

Marburger earned a bachelor’s degree in management from Georgia Southern University. He served on the Parker College of Business Advisory Board for 28 years and was honored as Alumnus of the Year in 2009. Marburger received the 2013 Georgia Governor’s Award for establishing circular economy solutions for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Ed DeFraine joined Circular Solutions Advisors in 2023 to put his passion for creating a more sustainable planet into practice. Previously he had a 30-year career within the Coca-Cola system, most recently as vice president of Food Service and On-Premise for Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling in California.

During his career, DeFraine has served in a variety of leadership roles in sales, manufacturing , finance, sustainability and operations and is experienced in the application of AI technology in the soft drink industry. Prior to joining Circular Solutions Advisors, he helped implement circular economy programs with partners for Coca-Cola’s packaging, and also managed Reyes Coca-Cola’s partnerships with partners such as the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, LA Live, and the San Diego Zoo.

DeFraine earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from The University of Toledo and a master’s degree in industrial and systems engineering from The Georgia Institute of Technology. He has served on the board of directors of the Los Angeles Sports Council, the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games and has been involved in the Big Brothers program for more than 30 years.

Christi McGee joined Circular Solutions Advisors in 2023. As COO, she is responsible for driving operational strategy and excellence, financial and change management, public affairs, and communications. McGee served most recently as chief public affairs officer for Natua Strategies and as vice president of public affairs for Coca-Cola Consolidated, the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States.

McGee has more than 20 years of public affairs and community engagement experience, working with global brands, corporations, sports leagues, and trade associations, where she has leveraged her community relations, political advocacy, and public policy experience at the local, state and federal levels. Her experience spans many industries ranging from Coca-Cola Consolidated, International Speedway Corporation (NASCAR), to the National Association of REALTORS.

McGee holds a bachelor’s degree in government from the University of Virginia. She also earned a certificate in global sports management from New York University, and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certificate from Cornell University. She is a member of WISE CLT (Women In Sports and Entertainment) and is an active member of the Arthritis Foundation’s ‘Jingle Bell Run’ Committee, and serves as a volunteer for various local organizations through her church’s outreach activities.

Joe Marburger joined Circular Solutions Advisors (CSA) as Vice President, Finance and Technology in 2024. He is responsible for strategic financial planning and technological advancements using data analytics and digital tools to boost operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Having grown up in the circular economy business, Marburger brings to the company a passion for making a positive impact. Prior to joining CSA, Marburger spent five years in the commercial real estate industry in Florida, Texas and Georgia, serving in a number of increasingly responsible roles.

Marburger earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and information systems from Georgia Southern University.