What did you do before working at Downer Mining?
I joined Downer Mining in my current position in January 2012. Before that, I spent 25 years in the mining industry, working with various mining contractors and also for a few mine owners. This has mainly been in hard rock underground metalliferous mines, although I did do a short stint in the coal sector.

What are your tasks as general manager?
I’m responsible for the growth and financial performance of our underground mining and exploration drilling business. I’ve spent the past couple of years actively building a team of experienced, like-minded professionals who share Downer Mining’s commitment to its clients and its values-driven, collaborative approach to doing business.

What kind of partnership do you have with Sandvik?
Sandvik is extremely responsive to our strategic needs and has proven to be a reliable and versatile business partner whose values align with our own. The synergies of our partnership bring value for our customers and definitely make our brand stand out in the marketplace. Our vision is to be the only underground mining contractor in Australia using a single equipment manufacturer for our mining fleet.

What are the challenges in your work?
The mining sector itself is definitely a challenge at the moment, but it also presents an opportunity for us. Becoming recognized as a Tier 1 underground mining contractor and understanding mine owners’ needs have kept us busy for the past two years in trying times. We’re now seeing great results, with new business opportunities being presented to us.

What is the most interesting aspect of your work?
Having the ability to grow a business as diverse as ours is always exciting. One day it’s a suit and tie; the next I could be on a helicopter in Papua New Guinea or underground at one of our sites in Australia. Seeing my team grow in their careers while maintaining a happy work-life balance with plenty of quality time with their families is personally very fulfilling.