Dig Deep

“The mining industry is changing faster than ever, resulting in both greater growth potential, as well as more disruption and volatility than in years past”. In this episode of the Dig Deep Podcast, Rob interviews Andrew Swart, who is the Canadian Global leader for Mining & Metals for Deloitte and was the author of a report exploring the key mining trends in 2019 globally. Today, he briefly discusses these trends that will affect the mining industry moving forward. You can access this report by clicking: https://www2.deloitte.com/ca/en/pages/energy-and-resources/articles/tracking-the-trends.html KEY TAKEAWAYS Embedding the discipline to deliver measurable value across the cycle. Mining companies should be rethinking their mining strategies. They should be thinking about inherent risks in the portfolio or constructing the portfolio around the risk dimension. In the report, there are key dimensions that mining companies should be taking note of. Moving up the maturity curve. AI and analytics are seen to be moving into many aspects of the mining value chain in all the operations. These emerging techs can be useful in aspects of safety, performance and planning. Exploring a new approach to controls and risk management. Internal Audit 3.0, the next generation of internal audit and risks management. Why innovation requires integration? Across the value chain, it will become easier to determine the drivers and demands for particular commodities. It’s easier to streamline when we’re able to use data effectively also. Finding value beyond compliance. Mining companies should be mindful in each step of the way. They should look at positive environmental and social outcomes. Making the case for a systematic approach. Mining companies should utilise energy and water. They should think about its value to the community. Learning from past mistakes. Review the past and existing capital projects. Look also on how technologies can improve those projects. A blueprint for the future. Think about how you can use technology to enhance the work and the workplace. Ensure also the safety and comfortability of workers. From theory to practice. Mining companies should consider diversity inclusion. The mining industry has been one of the lowest in gender diversity across different industries. EVs and battery minerals provoke the desire for provenance. The industry should push for having ethical grounds when sourcing different minerals. BEST MOMENTS "We really think the time now is the right time for mining companies to rethink their mining strategies.” Rob: Where would you say we are on the actual curve or life cycle – the mining industry as a whole? Andrew: The mining companies begin to move towards digitisation. “One thing we talk about in the report is to move away from the productional linear-type value chain.” “It’s very important that one thinks about how are you going to create long-term value in that area.” “This industry is increasingly finding it hard to attract great talent… Creating more diverse, more inclusive workforces is going to be central to solving the next talent problem.” VALUABLE RESOURCES The top 10 issues transforming the future of mining ABOUT THE GUEST Andrew Swart is the Global Consulting Leader of the Mining & Metals for Deloitte. For over 15 years, he has been consulting for various clients from the industries of oil & gas, mining, CPG, professional services, and government worldwide. Andrew is also the author of the article ‘Tracking the trends 2019: The top 10 issues transforming the future of mining’ published for Deloitte. ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry, and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. CONTACT METHOD Email Rob at rob@mining-international.org Rob’s LinkedIn Mining International Official Website Mining International’s Twitter Mining International’s Facebook

What steps should you go through to smoothly grow your career to management in the mining industry?  In this episode of the Dig Deep Podcast, Rob invites Keith, an expert exploration geologist, to talk about his journey towards being one of the well-known mining entrepreneurs. He shares some personal stories, from how he got into geology to the current business endeavours he has right now. Discover some great tips and strategies future mining entrepreneurs can acquire so they could be as successful as Keith. They also discussed the future of some commodities and a few recent issues in the mining industry.  It would surely feel like you’ve struck gold after listening to Rob and Keith’s discussion.  KEY TAKEAWAYS  Keith Barron’s interest in geology sprouted at the age of 15 when he moved to the Isle of Man, where the 2nd largest mine in the UK is located. He then decided to pursue Geology at the University of Toronto. After graduating, he started building his career and worked for a lot of mining companies.   It was difficult at first to learn the ropes of the management aspect in the mining industry. Keith was lucky to develop his skillset since during his involvement with Geological Survey of Canada regarding a big diamond mine discovery. After this, he decided to do things on his own.   He became an entrepreneur, and he built projects in different countries. He had experiences with different commodities and right now, he manages a sapphire mine.  According to Keith, a mining entrepreneur should learn how to go out and look at the opportunities waiting for him to be explored. It isn’t for everyone but if you’re driven and ready to risk your net worth, you can be one of the best entrepreneurs in the mining industry.  Straight Talk On Mining is one of Keith’s project. He started this continue imparting knowledge to people and also to put his name out there. This made him one of the well-known influencers in the mining industry.  What commodities are going to be major forces in the coming years?  It has been forecasted that gold production is going to drop in the next years because of its exploration process.   There’s going to be a big demand for copper when the production of electronic vehicles starts to rise.  There’s going to be a huge development and a lot of researches on metals that are used and can be used for batteries.  Why do Keith enjoy mining? It’s the exploration stage that Keith enjoys. You can turn a piece of loose pasture that something worth billions. He’s also happy helping other countries find resources, helping local communities, and increase the GDPs.  BEST MOMENTS  "Most of my career has been financed by companies, of course, and it’s only in the latter years that I’ve been paying for things for myself… but I said to the students, ‘It’s a wonderful life when you get into things. It’s very very exciting going to different countries and experiencing different cultures.’”  “You have to make yourself marketable…willing to go almost anywhere and do any job… not to be frightened about languages and cultures.”  “I’m sensible enough to know that you don’t usually hit in the first drill hole. That’s like winning the lottery. It takes perseverance and hard work. If you find deposit and mines, you have to build them.”  “People should have a broad target of what they’re hoping in 10-15 years. In the meantime, approach things in baby steps and do the best that you can in the next 2-3 years.”  VALUABLE RESOURCES  Straight Talk On Mining  Aurania Resources  Firestone Ventures Inc.  U3O8 Corp  Barrick Gold Corporation  Goldcorp  ABOUT THE GUEST  Keith Barron has over 32 years of experience in the mining industry. He is an exploration geologist who has been an expert handling various commodity including uranium, platinum, diamonds, industrial minerals, sapphires, and golds.  In 2001, Keith has founded Aurelian Resources Inc., a company that focuses on gold exploration in Ecuador. He is also the founder, Director, and major shareholder of uranium explorer U3O8 Corp. and the Director of Firestone Ventures Inc.  Keith was awarded the Thayer Lindsley International Discovery Award in March 2008 at the PDAC Convention for his significant contributions in the discovery of the Fruta del Norte gold deposit. Aside from this, on the same year, he was also jointly named the Northern Miner’s Mining Man of the Year.  Straight Talk On Mining  Email Keith at keith@aurania.com   ABOUT THE HOST  Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.  Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace.  CONTACT METHOD  Email Rob at rob@mining-international.org   Rob’s LinkedIn  Mining International Official Website  Mining International’s Twitter  Mining International’s Facebook 

Is cobalt still gonna be a commodity in the next decades? In this episode of the Dig Deep Podcast, Rob talks to Lance, Peter, and Yves from Cobalt Blockchain Inc. They discuss the importance of cobalt, the current political situation of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and everything you need to know about their company. Another interesting thing you’ll hear today is how they ensure that during the process, the sourcing remains ethical and that the safety of the workers is prioritised. This is part of a special where companies can promote themselves and showcase their projects. So, make sure to watch out for the next episodes! KEY TAKEAWAYS Cobalt Blockchain has been based in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for over 12 years. They initially discovered two million oz. of gold in DRC. And, for the last 4 years, they’re exploring commodity trading. They’ve been resourcing and exporting tin, tantalum, and tungsten. Cobalt Blockchain wants to make sure that the minerals that tech and automobile companies are procuring are sourced ethically. There should be no children working in the mine sites and there should be a basic workplace safety guideline in place among others. Why cobalt? Cobalt is one of the most supplied minerals on the planet. 70% of it comes from DRC. It wasn’t until the electronic vehicles were introduced that cobalt surfaced as a commodity. By 2040, it might be hard to buy combustion engines as e-vehicles develop. There have been improvements in terms of the political situation in DRC. It still is an attractive country to be working in. Even the existing mining code has been updated ever since. Cobalt Blockchain can provide mineral providence and visibility in the supply chain. It can really demonstrate its value in the mining industry. The company is working with artisanal miners that focus on the high-grade near surface mineralization. This is to ensure that there is certainty of supply. BEST MOMENTS "DRC currently represents about 70% of the world’s supply of cobalt.” “The objective this year is to turn our cobalt hydroxide plant and start to bring the first ethically sourced cobalt." “For 2019, change is coming… I think it’s gonna be a positive year. We’re looking forward to the first hundred days of the president.” VALUABLE RESOURCES Endeavor Conference Cobalt Blockchain Inc. Industry giants fail to tackle child labour allegations in cobalt battery supply chains | Amnesty International ABOUT THE GUEST Lance Hooper is the President & Chief Operating Officer/Director of Cobalt Blockchain Inc. For the past twenty years Lance has developed a broad range of experience in emerging companies where he has played key roles as both an early employee and as a founder. Lance is a named inventor and has been intimately involved with the product development, business development, and sales and marketing of several commercially successful innovations including the world’s first interbank email money transfer service. For the last decade Lance has held senior corporate positions and served as a director with private and public mining companies working in Canada, Peru, Afghanistan and the DRC. Recent work in the DRC includes Kilo Goldmines, a 2Moz gold discovery in the Oriental Province. Lance was most recently President & CEO of Belair African Metals, acquired by COBC, specializing in conflict free tin, tantalum and tungsten concentrates in the DRC. Peter Hooper - Chief Executive Officer / Director Peter is a graduate in mining engineering with 45+ years of broad‐based experience permitting, building, and operating mines, including hands‐on expertise in mine management, engineering, operations and production. His practical work experience spans five continents: North America (Eldorado Nuclear, Sherritt Gordon, J.S. Redpath, Dynatec Engineering, PC Gold); Africa (Rustenburg Platinum, Consolidated Murchison, Prestea Gold Mines, Kilo Gold Mines, PMI Resources, and Nevsun Resources); China (Afcan Mining); Australia (Consolidated Rio Australia); and South America (Latin Gold, Macusani Yellowcake). Peter was the driving force behind a 2Moz gold discovery in NE DRC (2006-2012). Peter served as the Executive Chairman of Belair African Metals - recently acquired by COBC - with operations in Katanga and Maniema provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Yves Kabongo - Managing Director of DRC Operations Yves Kabongo started his career at a major Financial Institution as an Analyst and has spent the past 8 years involved with junior mining companies with projects located in Canada, Peru and the DRC.  Yves has been with Belair African Metals SARL (acquired by Peat Resources as announced on January 19, 2018) for the past 3 years, and is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the project. Source: https://www.cobaltblockchain.net/company ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. CONTACT METHOD Email Rob at rob@mining-international.org Rob’s LinkedIn Mining International Official Website Mining International’s Twitter Mining International’s Facebook  

AFRICAN MINING, WILLING PARTIES WORKING TOGETHER. In this episode John Clarke, a mining veteran shares his career journey working in Africa from the Ashanti Goldfields to Great Quest Fertilisers where he is currently the Chairman.    This podcast is an opportunity to hear about how John has successfully worked in different countries and the vital aspects that must be considered when you are a guest in another country.     KEY TAKEAWAYS  Following postgraduate study at Cambridge, John Clarke began his career in South Africa.  My goal was to do academic research in an area that I liked, and I was fortunate that I had many opportunities.  In Ghana in the 1980s, significant changes were brought about by the government who changed laws to encourage investment and allow people to make a return and the Ashanti Goldfields became the showcase for this.  In the mid-nineties we looked outside of Ghana and acquired 3 significant exploration /mining companies for 3 key assets and those 3 assets were brought into production and formed the basis for the bigger Ashanti.  The assets were significantly advanced, and we had the skills and ability to raise funds.  I had lots of opportunities with Ashanti and worked in many different areas and roles. As a result, I decided that I wanted to make my next move into the junior end of the market, and I moved to Nevson to fulfil this.    What is it like working in Africa?  Usually, you are working in somebody else’s country. To keep the support of the local government it's important to be developing a local company which is recognised and accepted locally, employing local people and developing their skills    In Africa, you are dealing with governments who want mining to be successful.  Social responsibility  Social responsibility is a keystone for any company working anywhere we all have to be within the communities we work and live in at both a local and national level. Within the industry people do adhere to social responsibility, people do work on it and seek to improve things.  What opportunities are there in Eritrea?  Eritrea is frontier country again it's wide open for business and there is the chance of new discoveries. There is a lot of good will at government and international levels.  Have all your management roles been different?  It’s all about the team. We can’t have all the skills for the job, we can’t be the ultimate expert in every area. We may have worked in the discipline and have a better understanding of what it entails but working as a team provides group expertise.  What advice would you give to anyone wanting to move into senior position?  I consciously went looking for experiences to further my career plan. I was able to study areas such as accounting that would never be my career, but the part-time studies gave me the chance to understand better how people worked in these areas as their careers.  Great Quest Fertiliser  When I was first involved Great Quest was a gold mining exploration company with an interesting portfolio. They diversified into phosphates in northern Mali and the quality and grade were ideal for direct application fertiliser.  Currently, the management of Great Quest is looking at a route for the direct supply of the fertiliser and associated products.  They will produce eventually for a local market with a reasonable margin without having to bring in products from elsewhere.    BEST MOMENTS  ‘Mining will always be with us, society needs our product’    ‘Always obey the law, no shortcuts’    ‘It’s our job to let them know how we can do the job cleanly and efficiently’    ‘All companies are just groups of people working together’    ‘It’s a people business at the end of the day’    ‘It's got a bad rap, because people don’t understand how many things are dependent on it’    ‘You can use downtime on a fly in fly out work contract to study acquiring new skills’    ‘There isn’t much that doesn’t require something that has come from mining’    ‘You are working as a guest worker’    ‘In Africa, you are dealing with governments who want mining to be successful’    ‘The bottom line is willing parties working together’       VALUABLE RESOURCES   https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/dig-deep-the-mining-podcast-podcast/id1440020656?mt=2     ABOUT THE HOST  Rob Tyson  Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.  Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace.     CONTACT METHOD  rob@mining-international.org  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson https://twitter.com/MiningConsult-3a26a68/   https://www.mining-international.org/   https://www.facebook.com/MiningInternational.org      GUEST CONTACT JOHN CLARKE  Jaclarke01@gmail.com   https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-clarke-9355702a/?originalSubdomain=uk 

In this episode, Rob interviews Tim Daffern. They discuss the routes that can be taken at the beginning of a mining career and also the skills and attributes that any aspiring MD should be looking to develop as their career progresses.    We also gain an insight into how Tim has managed companies through challenging periods and the skills he has employed to successfully turn them around.     KEY TAKEAWAYS  Tim’s mining career began in his native Australia where after university he started out as an operative and then had further training as he progressed.    He has always seen engineering and technical skills whilst working with the men and the machinery as the cornerstone to his strengths providing him with the platform to reach senior and executive management.    He always had an interest in the technical and wanted to know why it was being done that way and if it could be done differently to bring improvements.    What advice would you offer a graduate?  All young graduates should seek roles in operating, there are more opportunities in Australia due to the scale of mining.  A lot of UK mines, including London based financial businesses like graduates who’ve gone out to Africa or Australia and done 5 or 7 years to gain practical experience, there are potentially very good jobs in the UK in consulting, financial institutions or in operating mines.    What are some of the key skills in executive management?  Fundamentally it's about teamwork and about pragmatic leadership. It is about having profoundly strong engineering and technical skills and sharing those in a way that is about teaching other people to solve problems.    It’s not about giving the solutions it's about working as a team and helping the team to develop their problem-solving skills. Establishing a peer review process will help build the skills of the team further.    You’ve worked for mining companies, consultancies and a merchant bank  What the difference between these organisations?  There are similarities – you need to have a good understanding of technical and engineering matters across all areas.  You need to be strong communicator, with good written and verbal skills.  You need to have confidence in your own skill level  The differences are;  Mining Operation is focused on cash generation  Consultancy is about providing detailed advice  Merchant banking involves both complex commercial skills as well as an understanding of a corporate situation.    Would you need different attributes for each area/ organisation?  In Merchant banking, you need to be very articulate so this would need to be a very strong skill, a solid commercial corporate understanding is also necessary.    A Mining company is about balancing and compromising between technical operations and cost.    In Consultancy, you are hired to produce detailed reports and you need detailed technical skills and the communication skills both to record accurately and present your work to others.    What should someone who has aspirations to be a CEO or MD look to develop?  Start with teamwork, you must be comfortable both as leader, follower and team member. Developing your own interpersonal skills is a key attribute.    You should develop strong technical and engineering skills – ‘a need to know, how this works?’  You will also need to develop commercial skills building these up through a Master’s programme or professional training. – many individuals further their business administration skills through an MBA.    Throughout your career working in different areas will develop an understanding of sales, accounting, administration, human resources, and marketing    You need, not only to have the full range of skills but also breadth and depth across those skills, being an MD is about a commitment to the investors and shareholders - a responsibility – you are trying to return a good profit to the shareholders.    BEST MOMENTS  ‘It’s because they have practical experience’  ‘To have credibility you need to have 5 years in a practical role/ site experience’    ‘Miners are very innovative artisans’    ‘It’s not just a blunt 2-dimensional task it’s a 3-dimensional approach to hueing rock out of the ground’  ‘Get out there and get practical work’    ‘Working together as a team’  It's demanding but intensely satisfying’   ‘Providing resources for society to continue to develop’    ‘Keep it practical’        VALUABLE RESOURCES   https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/dig-deep-the-mining-podcast-podcast/id1440020656?mt=2     ABOUT THE HOST  Rob Tyson  Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.  Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace.     CONTACT METHOD  rob@mining-international.org  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson                                         https://twitter.com/MiningConsult-3a26a68/   https://www.mining-international.org/   https://www.facebook.com/MiningInternational.org       ABOUT THE GUEST  Guest bio - Tim Daffern  Tim Daffern who has over 30 years in the mining industry share his journey starting off as a miner (down in the pit) back in the day, then rising up through the ranks and has been in many executive management positions where he specialises in turning companies fortunes around. He is currently the Group Head of Mining at ICL Group and interested in Tim’s career having managed companies in CEO & MD capacity and in this podcast he provides valuable content and advice in how he managed these companies successfully and what it takes to work at that level.     CONTACT METHOD  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-daffern-7023aa2a/?originalSubdomain=uk    

In this international episode, Rob visits and interviews Rodney Lacy who is currently working in Saudi Arabia, mining phosphate. They discuss the role of the expat and what you should be doing if you aspire to be a successful general manager in the industry. Listen in to find out more about the development of mining in Saudi Arabia and the opportunities available. KEY TAKEAWAYS What Is It Like To Work As An Expat? It can be difficult to get into the overseas market but if you can get in and build a reputation it can be a very positive career path. Moving overseas for me has been the equivalent of gaining a master’s degree because I’ve learnt so much. Getting into the expat role was a career-changing experience for me. When you are an expat you’re a guest in the country and your job is to pass your knowledge on to your local counterpart. The experiences you have, the places you go and the people you meet make it very rewarding and outweigh any financial gains. What Key skills Do You Need As A General Manager? Good people skills.  You’ve got to enjoy and understand working with people We have a job to do – but we spend more time with our colleagues than our families it’s important to be compassionate. The desire to help other people. A well-rounded background in mining with tertiary skills in areas including maintenance and engineering A love of mining. Knowledge of budgeting and an understanding of all financial aspects connected with your areas of responsibility. What Advice Would You Give To Someone Aspiring To Be A General Manager? Get involved with your company, you might have expertise in operations but volunteer your time to get involved in and find out about areas such as engineering and maintenance as this will increase your skill base. Continue your education and seek to further it. Gaining an MBA will help to develop and increase your understanding of the business as a complete entity. The general manager role is one where you have to know enough about everything in order to function successfully. BEST MOMENTS ‘I never envisioned myself as being a world traveller but if you have an opportunity to go overseas you are going to meet a lot of great people ‘ ‘Be brave enough to step out and learn, others will see you are willing’ ‘You have to have enough vision to see where something might take you’ 'You can learn something from even your worst boss’ ‘It’s a rewarding experience, you really accomplish something’ ‘I have been able to put into practice things I’ve learnt from across the world’ ‘Good miners make the job look easy’ ‘Mining – it’s a very honourable business’ VALUABLE RESOURCES https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/dig-deep-the-mining-podcast-podcast/id1440020656?mt=2 ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. CONTACT METHOD https://www.mining-international.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/?originalSubdomain=uk https://twitter.com/miningconsult https://en-gb.facebook.com/public/Rob-Tyson ABOUT THE GUEST Rodney Lacy Rodney Lacy is General Manager of Saudi Comedat in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Comedat are partnering with Ma’aden Phosphate Company (MPC) at the Al-Jalamid phosphate mine where they are contracted to provide total mining services at one of the Kingdom’s largest mining projects. Rodney began his mining career in New Mexico and is a first-generation miner within his family. He has worked across the world and has been involved in mining minerals and coal in a range of different situations. In his current role in Saudi Arabia, he is growing Saudi Comedat into a world-class contract mining company. CONTACT METHOD Rodney.lacy@saudicomedat.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodney-lacy-47306636/

In this podcast, Andrew Bell talks about his journey from working as a natural resources analyst at Morgan Grenfell & Co back in the 70s through to his role as chairman with Red Rock and Regency Mining the companies he is currently involved in. He gives investment tips if you're looking to invest in mining and resources companies on the stock exchange and what you should be looking for in a company. He explains what’s happening in the finance and private equity markets at the moment and the challenges mining companies are facing in securing finance.     KEY TAKEAWAYS   Red Rock Resources Is a mix of investments and partners and follows a structure associated with corporate finance.  The company has a policy of developing assets then selling them out and keeping a royalty or interest. Red Rock is focused on production and to get things into operation works with others.   Regency Mines This company didn’t have an immediate revenue production prospect so initially, it was pared back to be as lean as possible. Recently it has moved into metallurgical coal in the United States and this has been a good profit generator.   The destinies of the companies continue to be separate as merging would create a relatively small company with too wide a range of mineral interests.     Attracting Finance Markets are better at raising short term money than long term money because people want to make money fast.   Banks will never be at the front line for lending to mining as they always want to see a lot of equity return for their lending. Junior miners look towards private equity companies and private investors for finance.   For a more informed investor who is looking longer term, working with a company that has clear strategies for generating revenue will be a good mix. There are always good stocks to invest in and currently, it is a good time to be looking for value.   Investing Look for combination of a good project with a path to production or cash flow and a management that is dedicated to producing that cash flow   Influence You can learn from and be influenced by people, from them working in the same industry even if you don’t work with or have met them.   People who have built companies in the same area can all influence to some degree as you can look and see what they did right     BEST MOMENTS ‘We are sure that in the end, this will come right’   ‘Nothing, of course, is a straight line up’   ‘We don’t just talk the talk about production we’ve actually done it’   ‘It's about creating something we can be proud of’   ‘If there is an opportunity, it is just about persevering’   ‘We have to grow, recruit new people, have new ideas’     ABOUT THE GUEST Andrew Bell   Andrew Bell is the Chairman and Chief Executive of Red Rock Resources and Regency Mines, both natural resource exploration and development companies who are listed on London’s AIM market who manage a diverse portfolio of mining and oil and gas projects and investments around the world. Andrew’s business experience has been around fund management and advisory work with leading financial institutions, international corporate finance work and private equity and he has a number of company directorships.   Contact Information: Email:                    andrew@rrrplc.com Twitter:                 armcmb1 LinkedIn:              https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-bell-20216819/         ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace.   CONTACT METHOD Email Rob at rob@mining-international.org Rob’s LinkedIn Mining International Official Website Mining International’s Twitter Mining International’s Facebook  

In this episode we find out about the role of consultants within the mining industry. Andy Carter provides a wealth of information about how consultancies work and the types of projects they work on. He shares his own fascinating professional journey and offers advice about the skills that are desirable in a good consultancy.   KEY TAKE AWAYS   In South Africa mining engineers were able to pursue technical challenges with vigour and given time to investigate in great depth. Today cost and time are limiting factors for investigations to this degree.   Pursuing professional opportunities to work around all of the English-speaking world resulted in being well equipped to cope with any challenge.     Establishing a network through contacts is vital. You need to continue to build that network, maintain that network and develop further that network.   At any gathering, make sure you don’t ever leave with nothing even if just a referral Make sure you ask for work and if they don’t have any then maybe they know someone who does.   Key for a successful telephone pitch are: Be prepared Rehearse it Think through what you want to say before you make the call   A consultancy can lead clients through the complete process from geo sampling through to the end of the process. Consultancies essentially produce technical reports and these reports are used for financing. “We facilitate the transactions between to client and the bank, essentially our reports are the show and tell element.”   Mining companies use consultancies as lots of companies do not have resources or technical knowledge. It is now a requirement under 43101 third party opinion that the report has been put together by an independent party and a consultancy fulfils this requirement.   When we propose a particular solution it’s about persuading the client to take a particular path and demonstrating how the solution can work     BEST MOMENTS   “Sound grounding in the fundamentals”   “Consultants are essentially engineers, scientists, technologists who do consulting”.     “Credibility – if you never been near a mine or sharp end its obvious to client”     “Even today the fabric of our society is based on mineral exploitation, just about everything around us comes from out of the ground”     ABOUT THE GUEST   Andy Carter   Andy Carter, Technical Director of Coffey Geotechnics UK, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tetra Tech Inc. and leader of their Swindon mining group who shares his journey from starting his career after graduating and moving to work in South Africa and then Canada working in mineral consultancy space. He explains in more detail the consultancy industry and how it has developed, the important role it plays in the industry and the future of this sector. With around 40 years industry experience, Andy shares his wealth of knowledge and experience in mineral processing and what the future holds with certain minerals now becoming more prominent in new technologies that are being developed.       ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace.   CONTACT METHOD Email Rob at rob@mining-international.org Rob’s LinkedIn Mining International Official Website Mining International’s Twitter Mining International’s Facebook  

In this interview with David Norvals, Rob explores David’s professional journey through the mining industry, and they discuss in detail the opportunities and challenges of setting up a business in Africa. This podcast gives an insight into some of the challenges which are specific to Africa, but David also shares his knowledge about how and why companies have been successful. If you are interested in understanding more about this fascinating area of the world and its mining industry, then this podcast is provides the answers.   KEY TAKE AWAYS Exploring the opportunities and challenges for setting up a business in Africa. When you go from a more sophisticated country you think you can easily identify investment areas. Businesses’ generally start out from a need for something and willingness to work with expats and locals to provide those products and meet the need. A possible restricting element is capital – registering a business in Ghana is easy but raising local capital or dealing in the local currency is challenging You have to carefully consider if you have sufficient resources, have you planned for the possible risks potentially affecting African countries. The Ebola Outbreak shut down the economy in Africa. It is the type of risk that wouldn’t be expected in Europe. Someone starting business in Africa needs to partner with someone local – often African countries look the same and you think they are, but the reality is that they are all very different and misunderstanding this is a mistake many make. It’s vital that you to understand what’s going on Finding the right partner is someone who has the same goals values and agrees with the company objectives. In Africa you have to also be politically aware, understanding that the local partner you have now might not be the right partner in the future due to the changing political landscape.   BEST MOMENTS   “Being in the UK at an international company gave me access to people from all over the world. People with amazing ideas”   “When you go from a more sophisticated country you think you can easily identify investment areas.”   “Modern mining employs less and less people every year due to technology Local communities asking what they get out of it”     ABOUT THE GUEST Dave Norvals Originally from South Africa, Dave Norval has been involved in suppling services to the mining industry for the past 30+ years and In this podcast, Dave shares his career and journey where he has been heavily involved in the mining industry in Africa and more so in Ghana so has a wealth of expat experience. He shares his experience and provides advice in setting up business in Africa and what you should do, the pitfalls to avoid and the challenges you may be faced with.   ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace.   Contact Method Email Rob at rob@mining-international.org Rob’s LinkedIn Mining International Official Website Mining International’s Twitter Mining International’s Facebook      

Welcome back to Dig Deep: The Mining Podcast with your host Rob Tyson. In this episode, Rob is at the Mining and Money conference in London where he interviewed MD & CEO of Resolute Mining John Welborn. Their conversation takes them from John’s former career as a professional rugby player to his modern-day role as CEO of Resolute Mining. John talks with passion about leading the development of the first fully automated underground mine.   Key Takeaways   Transition from Professional Sport. It’s a difficult transition from playing professional rugby to business. One week you will have 40 thousand people cheering you and the next you are working 7 am until midnight in business. It’s tough to change career in that way. John spoke that having that profile as a sportsman helped him in his career, as an accountant, investment banker and as a CEO of a mining company.   What kills did you take from sport into your business career? I think mainly the benefit of focus. I was attracted to the tactical nature of rugby. Each position a specific different role, whether that’s the half-back or prop. In a mining company, we bring together similarly lots of different skill sets from geologists, engineers and financiers. There is a range of disciplines but in the same way that a rugby can be successful if they are brought together under one goal by their coach, business is the same and we are trying to do that with Resolute.   Transition from Finance to Mining. I had initially focused on banking but I was offered an opportunity to interview for a job a small zinc development company. All I could think was, what would I know about running a mining company? However, during the interview, I convinced myself that I was going to be able to run the company. My insolvency background helped, as the mining industry was going through a difficult moment at that point and we were to reposition the company in a different direction.   Starting In Resolute Mining. I was working in the same building as Resolute for many years. Working. It’s been a leading gold producing company for over 25 years. It was a pioneer for an Australian company going and working into Africa, in Ghana initially. John firstly joining a non-exec in and then became the CEO three years ago.   What is happening at Resolute Mining currently? Although the asset is the same in terms of mines since John first starter the team have been really successful in repositioning the company into a different space. We are launching the world's first autonomous underground mine, we’ve been upgrading the infrastructure, solar hybrid power mission, invest in that mine. We have three mines that have ten-year lifespan, which sets us up nicely or the next phase.   Why the Automated Mine? I guess it’s a combination of study and ambition, and the desire to build the best mine possible. Mining is a high-risk business so everyone looks to low-risk solutions, which means people often do things they have always done in the past. We saw this as an opportunity to enhance the value of the mine through automation, processing infrastructure, and creating a solar power plant.   The study programme. We looked at different mines around the world to see how it has been for other companies who are retrofitting their mines for automation. We asked them why they went down this route. We were able to speak to people who had experience incorporate that into the feasibility studies. Designing the mine for the automation rather than retrofit is a key feature. We are confident we are going to save money. We believe that is where the industry is going and that it will increase opportunities for employment in the future and improve safety.   What advice would you give to people who are thinking about automation? Making sure that you understand your business. Mining is actually is a subcontracting business you risk share with other companies, buying the equipment an partnering them to run and maintain that equipment. When things are automated your relationship between your supplier changes. Equipment provider changes to a different kind of relationship. If you're looking at automation, make sure you understand the roles of your partners. Make sure your investors are fully on board and recognise the changing skill set you will need in the company with automation.   What’s the future look like? After the successful launch of the automated mine, we will then be looking to spread our wings. Next stage will be discovering new places around the world. We have a history of discovering and building new mines successfully. We are looking to establish a portfolio of mines and provide value to our shareholders. We are focusing on Africa, as there are lots more exploration possibilities and governments are willing to partner with mines.   Why do you enjoy mining? The excitement for the exploration, the challenge of a competitive industry, complexity of the task involved, and one that is high risk, but very rewarding.   Who has been the most influential person on you?  At every stage, I have sought help and support from others. I learned a huge amount from Ian Millness my first chairman who was one of the most successful Australian entrepreneurs. I’m a great follower of Mark Bristow and the Rangold story. He is a highly influential figure.   Best Moments ‘Learned an appreciation of other cultures, through learning French playing rugby.’ ‘Benefit of focus.’ ‘Study and ambition, and the desire to build the best mind possible.’ ‘Automation came from trying to build the best mine possible.’ ‘We’ve had to make a leap of faith.’ ‘The saving for us is not salaries, it’s productivity.’ ‘We will be seeing automation into underground mines.’ ‘The mining industry is a magic act; we turn dirt into bullion.’   About The Host Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight to people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. Rob is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from the first world to third world countries from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia. We source, headhunt and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients’ organisation in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. About The Guest John Welborn is MD & CEO of Resolute Mining who are developing gold mines in Australia and Mali and have portfolio of gold development and exploration projects in Ghana, Mali, Tanzania, Australia and Cote D’Ivoire. He has a colourful career, starting out as an international professional rugby player playing rugby in Australia and France and representing the Wallabies before retiring and going into the finance world before moving into mining. We met John at the Mines & Money London Conference where he discusses his journey and explains how they are developing the first fully automated underground mining operation in the world at their Syama operation in Mali.     Contact Method Email Rob at rob@mining-international.org Rob’s LinkedIn Mining International Official Website Mining International’s Twitter Mining International’s Facebook