CRIRSCO MEMBERS
(as IMM Code)
Crirsco Executive
Edmund (Ed) Sides graduated with a BA (Hons) in Geology from Trinity College Dublin, Ireland and subsequently obtained MSc (Mineral Exploration) and PhD degrees from Imperial College, London. He spent the first fourteen years of his professional career working for the Rio Tinto group in a variety of roles in Ireland, Panama, UK, Spain and Portugal, during which time he progressed from grassroots mineral exploration through project evaluation to working on mine developments and operating mines. Experience gained during this time included carbonate-hosted lead-zinc deposits, porphyry copper and volcanic-hosted massive sulphide (VHMS) deposits.
Subsequently Ed spent eight years working at the Institute of Aerospace Survey and Earth Sciences (ITC) in the Netherlands where he was involved in post-graduate education, research and consulting work. After moving back to the UK where he worked for several years as a software training instructor with GE Smallworld, Ed started working in mining consultancy in 2004 and has continued in this role to the present. Whilst working as a consultant for Snowden and AMEC, Ed gained additional experience on a variety of commodity and deposit types including orogenic gold, iron ore, rare earth elements, amongst others. Ed currently works as an independent consultant with his own company Orebody Risks Limited.
Ed has co-opted onto PERC in 2014 to assist in developing PERC-related training courses. He was appointed PERC secretary in May 2018 and currently serves as one of the Institute of Geologists of Ireland (IGI)’s four representatives on PERC. In September 2018 he was appointed as PERC’s second representative on CRIRSCO.
Lynn Olssen FAusIMM(CP), GAICD
Lynn is a geologist and mining executive with more than 30 years’ experience across operations, exploration, consulting and governance. For the last six years she led Rio Tinto’s group Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve assurance, accountable for the governance and controls behind public reporting under the ASX, LSE and SEC.
Lynn is a member of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) and one of the JORC representatives on the Committee for Mineral Reserves International Reporting Standards (CRIRSCO). Lynn has a Bachelor of Science from UWA as well as Graduate Certificates in Geostatistics and Corporate Finance. She is a recipient of the 2014 Minerals Council of Australia’s Women in Mining Scholarship for the Australian Institute of Company Director’s Course and was awarded a place on the 100 Inspirational Women in Mining list in 2018.
Lynn Olssen FAusIMM(CP), GAICD
Lynn is a geologist and mining executive with more than 30 years’ experience across operations, exploration, consulting and governance. For the last six years she led Rio Tinto’s group Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve assurance, accountable for the governance and controls behind public reporting under the ASX, LSE and SEC.
Lynn is a member of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) and one of the JORC representatives on the Committee for Mineral Reserves International Reporting Standards (CRIRSCO). Lynn has a Bachelor of Science from UWA as well as Graduate Certificates in Geostatistics and Corporate Finance. She is a recipient of the 2014 Minerals Council of Australia’s Women in Mining Scholarship for the Australian Institute of Company Director’s Course and was awarded a place on the 100 Inspirational Women in Mining list in 2018.
Ciceron (“Jun”) is a geologist with more than 45 years experience in gold-base metal exploration in Asia, mainly Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Iran and Australia. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of the Philippines in 1977 and his Masters in Applied Science in Mineral Exploration from the University of New South Wales, Australia in 1985. He is a Fellow and Chartered Professional (CP) in Geology of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), Fellow of the Society of Economic Geologists in the USA, Life Member and Accredited Competent Person-Geologist of Geological Society of the Philippines (GSP) and a Life Member of the Geological Society of Malaysia (GSM). In 2008, he was awarded Outstanding Geologist by the Philippine Professional Regulation Commission. From 2018 to 2024, he is the Chairperson of the PMRC Committee (PMRCC).
Currently working as a consultant since 2009, Ciceron has been connected with Renison Goldfields Consolidated Ltd. of Australia from 1980 to 1994 as geologist to principal geologist in the Philippines and Malaysia, Newcrest Mining Ltd. of Australia in Asia as a geologist to Exploration Manager-Asia from 1994 to 1999, PT Austindo Nusantara Jaya of Indonesia as Exploration Manager from 1999 to 2001, Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. of Canada as senior geologist in China from 2002 to 2004, Pars Kaaneh Kish of Iran as Exploration Manager in 2004-2005, Central China Goldfields Plc of United Kingdom in China as Exploration Manager to Vice President-Exploration in 2006-2009, GGG Resources Ltd. in Australia as the Technical Director from 2009 to 2012, and a non-executive director of Medusa Mining Ltd. of Australia, mainly involved in the Co-O gold mine in the Philippines from 2011 to 2017.
Ciceron (“Jun”) is a geologist with more than 45 years experience in gold-base metal exploration in Asia, mainly Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Iran and Australia. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of the Philippines in 1977 and his Masters in Applied Science in Mineral Exploration from the University of New South Wales, Australia in 1985. He is a Fellow and Chartered Professional (CP) in Geology of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), Fellow of the Society of Economic Geologists in the USA, Life Member and Accredited Competent Person-Geologist of Geological Society of the Philippines (GSP) and a Life Member of the Geological Society of Malaysia (GSM). In 2008, he was awarded Outstanding Geologist by the Philippine Professional Regulation Commission. From 2018 to 2024, he is the Chairperson of the PMRC Committee (PMRCC).
Currently working as a consultant since 2009, Ciceron has been connected with Renison Goldfields Consolidated Ltd. of Australia from 1980 to 1994 as geologist to principal geologist in the Philippines and Malaysia, Newcrest Mining Ltd. of Australia in Asia as a geologist to Exploration Manager-Asia from 1994 to 1999, PT Austindo Nusantara Jaya of Indonesia as Exploration Manager from 1999 to 2001, Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. of Canada as senior geologist in China from 2002 to 2004, Pars Kaaneh Kish of Iran as Exploration Manager in 2004-2005, Central China Goldfields Plc of United Kingdom in China as Exploration Manager to Vice President-Exploration in 2006-2009, GGG Resources Ltd. in Australia as the Technical Director from 2009 to 2012, and a non-executive director of Medusa Mining Ltd. of Australia, mainly involved in the Co-O gold mine in the Philippines from 2011 to 2017.
Lufi has over 22 years of experiences in geotechnical, mine design, mine operation and mine management. Graduated with a BSc degree in Mining Engineering from Institut Teknologi Bandung (Indonesia), he obtained his M.Eng degree in Mining Engineering from Colorado School of Mines (USA). Most of Lufi’s career was spent with Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold and its subsidiary PT Freeport Indonesia. His past responsibilities included Manager Strategic Planning Project for Freeport-McMoRan Copper and Gold, based in New Orleans, USA and Operational Director for Baramulti Group mine – an Indonesian public coal mining company, based in Jakarta, Indonesia. He had also Australian mining experiences, working with BHP Nickel West Cliffs mine and St Barbara Gwalia mine. Currently, he holds responsibility as the Director and Principal for GEOMINE Mining and Geotechnical Consultant. He is a Coordinator for PERHAPI (Indonesian Association of Mining Professionals), a Member of Komite Bersama (Kombers) KCMI, a Member of Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), and a professional mining engineer registered with the Institution of Engineers Indonesia (PII).
Mr. Kirkham is a Registered Professional Geoscientist and is the Principal of Kirkham Geosystems Ltd., Vancouver, BC. which is a full-service provider of geoscience consulting services to the mining, environmental, oil & gas and geotechnical industries.
Kirkham Geosystems specializes in mineral resource estimation and as a Qualified Person in the context of NI43-101 Technical Reports, Mr. Kirkham is a Qualified/Competent Person for a wide variety of commodities and has worked throughout the world as an author for technical reports in support of projects from initial resource estimations, Scoping Study and Preliminary Economic Assessment through to Feasibility Studies.
Garth is the Past-President of the Canadian Institute of Mining (CIM). He is the co-Chair of the CIM Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Committee and the Chair of the Geoscientists Canada, Securities Committee. He is the past-Chair of the Mineral Deposits Division of the GAC along with being on National Council and the Distinguished Lecturer Coordinator from 2007-2010. He is Past Chair of the Vancouver Mineral Exploration Group (MEG) and a two-term Councillor for with APEGBC along with being Vice-Chair of the Geoscience Committee. He is currently the APEGBC representative and director of Geoscientists Canada. Garth is a fellow of both the Society of Economic Geologists and Geoscientists Canada.
Garth has received a number of awards, including the CJ Westerman Memorial Award in 2015, the highest honor bestowed upon a Geoscientist from the Engineers and Geoscientist of British Columbia.
Other Members Representatives
| Steve is a geologist with over 40 years experience in mine geology and operations, close mine exploration and resource development. |
Edson Ribeiro has over 35 years of experience in the mining industry, having devoted most of his career to the evaluation of mineral resources covering a broad range of ore types and deposit styles.
Graduated with a B.Sc. Degree in Geology at the University of São Paulo in 1987, M.Sc. degree in Metalogenesis at University of Campinas (São Paulo, Brazil) in 1994.
Brazilian representative with CRIRSCO since December 2015, member of the CRIRSCO Executive from 2018 to 2026, including the role of Chairperson for 2022-2023.
Professional memberships:
- Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG Member ID 5465)
- Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME Registered Member # 4203166)
- Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM Fellow # 990815)
- Brazilian Commission for Resources and Reserves (CBRR Registered Qualified Professional #16001)
- Brazilian representative with CRIRSCO since December 2015, CRIRSCO Secretary 2016-2018, Deputy Chairperson since 2019
Since obtaining a Masters Degree in mineral exploration from McGill University in 1986,
Reno Pressacco has gained experience in mineral exploration, mine development,
mine production, and providing consulting services to the mineral industry.
Reno has enjoyed a productive career as a geologist in the Canadian mining industry,
working on a wide variety of commodities and deposit types in many locations across
the world. A notable achievement during his career was to play a key role in identifying
the economic potential of the Matachewan (Young-Davidson) gold deposit (Ontario) at
the exploration stage. He was also involved in the early stages of the Cerro Negro mine
(Argentina) where he participated in the discovery phase and prepared some of the
initial Mineral Resource estimates for the Eureka Vein.
More recently Reno has participated in the crafting of the CIM Mineral Exploration Best
Practices Guidelines (2018), the CIM Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Best
Practices Guidelines (2019) and the CIM Industrial Minerals Leading Practices
Guidelines (2023). He received the CIM Robert Elver award in 2020. He is a member of
the CIM Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Committee and the United Nations
Minerals Working Group. In 2023 Reno established the Pressacco scholarship which
will be administered by the CIM Foundation.
Since obtaining a Masters Degree in mineral exploration from McGill University in 1986,
Reno Pressacco has gained experience in mineral exploration, mine development,
mine production, and providing consulting services to the mineral industry.
Reno has enjoyed a productive career as a geologist in the Canadian mining industry,
working on a wide variety of commodities and deposit types in many locations across
the world. A notable achievement during his career was to play a key role in identifying
the economic potential of the Matachewan (Young-Davidson) gold deposit (Ontario) at
the exploration stage. He was also involved in the early stages of the Cerro Negro mine
(Argentina) where he participated in the discovery phase and prepared some of the
initial Mineral Resource estimates for the Eureka Vein.
More recently Reno has participated in the crafting of the CIM Mineral Exploration Best
Practices Guidelines (2018), the CIM Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Best
Practices Guidelines (2019) and the CIM Industrial Minerals Leading Practices
Guidelines (2023). He received the CIM Robert Elver award in 2020. He is a member of
the CIM Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Committee and the United Nations
Minerals Working Group. In 2023 Reno established the Pressacco scholarship which
will be administered by the CIM Foundation.
Aquiles González is a Geologist from Universidad de Chile, and MSc Mineral Exploration, Imperial College, University of London.
He has worked at Minera El Indio, Codelco Chile, División Salvador, Minera Doña Inés de Collahausi, Minera Los Pelambres and, Antofagasta Minerals S.A. Currently he is Mineral Resource Manager at this last one.
He is Competent Person in Resource and Reserves, certified in Chile since 2015, and Member of the Society of Economic Geologists, USA.
Fernando Flores is a Chemical Engineer from the Universidad Técnica del Estado, Chile and Master in Business Administration from the Universidad Católica of Chile.
Since 2012 he is Deputy Manager of the Technological Foundation for Mining, of the Sociedad Nacional de Minería (SONAMI) in charge of technology transfer activities related to the Chilean mining sector (mining and metallurgical processes and energy efficiency).
Fernando worked for the Empresa Nacional de Minería (ENAMI) in different positions for 22 years. He was also an advisor to the Mining Undersecretariat of the Ministry of Mining and he worked as a consultant for the Ministry of Environment and mining companies.
He is a member of the College of Engineers, the Institute of Mining Engineers of Chile and the Chilean chapter of ISO / TC 82 Mining.
Between 2007 to 2015 he was Director of the Mining Commission on behalf of the College of Engineers of Chile. In April 2021 he is again appointed by the College of Engineers of Chile where he assumes as Vice President of the Mining Commission.
Mr. Li Jian is an expert member of the Mineral Resources Reserves Evaluation Professional Committee of CAMRA, Director and Researcher of the Evaluation Department at the Mineral Resources Reserves Review Center, Ministry of Natural Resources, and Secretary-General of the Mineral Exploration Professional Committee of the Geological Society of China. He holds a Ph.D. in Mineralogy, Petrology, and Ore Deposits from China University of Geosciences (Beijing).
With over two decades of professional experience, Mr. Li has specialized in solid mineral resources reserves evaluation, technical standardization, and policy research. His work has focused on the formulation and revision of technical standards, the alignment of China’s mineral resources reserves classification system with international frameworks, and the development of mineral resources management policies.
He is one of the principal drafters of key national and industry standards, including the National Standard “Classification of Solid Mineral Resources and Reserves” (GB/T 17766) and the Industry Standard “General Principles for Solid Mineral Geological Exploration” (DZ/T 0033), as well as the “Specifications for Sampling in Solid Mineral Exploration”. Notably, he led the drafting of the alignment document between China’s “National Standard for Classification of Solid Mineral Resources/Reserves” and the “United Nations Framework Classification for Resources” (UNFC), which was jointly issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources of China and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). As a core contributor, he also played a leading role in developing the “Alignment Document between China’s and CRIRSCO’s Classification Systems for Solid Mineral Resources/Reserves”, promoting international interoperability of resource reporting standards.
Mr. Li has made substantial contributions to advancing the modernization and internationalization of China’s mineral resources classification and evaluation system, and is widely recognized as a leading technical authority in the field.
Mr. Li Jian is an expert member of the Mineral Resources Reserves Evaluation Professional Committee of CAMRA, Director and Researcher of the Evaluation Department at the Mineral Resources Reserves Review Center, Ministry of Natural Resources, and Secretary-General of the Mineral Exploration Professional Committee of the Geological Society of China. He holds a Ph.D. in Mineralogy, Petrology, and Ore Deposits from China University of Geosciences (Beijing).
With over two decades of professional experience, Mr. Li has specialized in solid mineral resources reserves evaluation, technical standardization, and policy research. His work has focused on the formulation and revision of technical standards, the alignment of China’s mineral resources reserves classification system with international frameworks, and the development of mineral resources management policies.
He is one of the principal drafters of key national and industry standards, including the National Standard “Classification of Solid Mineral Resources and Reserves” (GB/T 17766) and the Industry Standard “General Principles for Solid Mineral Geological Exploration” (DZ/T 0033), as well as the “Specifications for Sampling in Solid Mineral Exploration”. Notably, he led the drafting of the alignment document between China’s “National Standard for Classification of Solid Mineral Resources/Reserves” and the “United Nations Framework Classification for Resources” (UNFC), which was jointly issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources of China and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). As a core contributor, he also played a leading role in developing the “Alignment Document between China’s and CRIRSCO’s Classification Systems for Solid Mineral Resources/Reserves”, promoting international interoperability of resource reporting standards.
Mr. Li has made substantial contributions to advancing the modernization and internationalization of China’s mineral resources classification and evaluation system, and is widely recognized as a leading technical authority in the field.
Mr. Yao Huajun currently serves as Chairperson of the National Technical Committee on Natural Resources and Territorial Spatial Planning Standardization (SAC/TC 93), Senior Consulting Expert and Vice President of CAMRA, as well as Chair of the Market Development Committee.
He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Drilling Engineering and Management from Wuhan Institute of Geology (the predecessor of China University of Geosciences), a Master of Economics from Nankai University, and a Doctor of Business Administration from Huazhong University of Science and Technology. He is a Level-II Researcher, Foreign Academician of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences, recipient of the State Council’s Special Government Allowance, and concurrently serves as a part-time professor and doctoral supervisor at China University of Geosciences (Beijing).
His prior leadership roles include Deputy Director (Deputy Director-General) of the Development and Research Center, China Geological Survey (formerly the National Geological Data Center); President of the Chinese Academy of Land and Resource Economics; Director of the Department of Mineral Development Management, Ministry of Land and Resources; Director of the Department of Mining Rights Management, Ministry of Natural Resources; Director of the Department of Science and Technology Development, Ministry of Natural Resources; Executive Vice President and Secretary-General (Legal Representative) of the China Society of Mineral Resources Economics; and Vice President and Secretary-General (Legal Representative) of CAMRA.
Mr. Yao has made significant contributions to the fields of geological economics, mineral resource management, and natural resource policy. He has led more than 40 major research projects and received over 10 provincial- and ministerial-level scientific and technological awards. He is the author or co-author of more than 30 academic monographs and has published over 100 scholarly articles. Widely recognized as a leading expert in the field, Mr. Yao integrates theoretical research with practical policy implementation, contributing extensively to institutional development and standardization in natural resources governance.
Mr. Yao Huajun currently serves as Chairperson of the National Technical Committee on Natural Resources and Territorial Spatial Planning Standardization (SAC/TC 93), Senior Consulting Expert and Vice President of CAMRA, as well as Chair of the Market Development Committee.
He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Drilling Engineering and Management from Wuhan Institute of Geology (the predecessor of China University of Geosciences), a Master of Economics from Nankai University, and a Doctor of Business Administration from Huazhong University of Science and Technology. He is a Level-II Researcher, Foreign Academician of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences, recipient of the State Council’s Special Government Allowance, and concurrently serves as a part-time professor and doctoral supervisor at China University of Geosciences (Beijing).
His prior leadership roles include Deputy Director (Deputy Director-General) of the Development and Research Center, China Geological Survey (formerly the National Geological Data Center); President of the Chinese Academy of Land and Resource Economics; Director of the Department of Mineral Development Management, Ministry of Land and Resources; Director of the Department of Mining Rights Management, Ministry of Natural Resources; Director of the Department of Science and Technology Development, Ministry of Natural Resources; Executive Vice President and Secretary-General (Legal Representative) of the China Society of Mineral Resources Economics; and Vice President and Secretary-General (Legal Representative) of CAMRA.
Mr. Yao has made significant contributions to the fields of geological economics, mineral resource management, and natural resource policy. He has led more than 40 major research projects and received over 10 provincial- and ministerial-level scientific and technological awards. He is the author or co-author of more than 30 academic monographs and has published over 100 scholarly articles. Widely recognized as a leading expert in the field, Mr. Yao integrates theoretical research with practical policy implementation, contributing extensively to institutional development and standardization in natural resources governance.
Mr. Castañeda has geologist engineer degree at University EIA in Medellín, Colombia. With over 20 years of mineral exploration and production-stage experience in the mining industry. Mauricio joined Continental Gold Inc. in April 2009, initially as the Exploration Manager and since 2011 to date as Vice-President Exploration of Continental Gold Inc. Prior to Continental Gold, Mr. Castañeda held senior positions as operation manager, senior geologist, chief geologist, planner engineer and mine geologist in a number of exploration and mining companies in Colombia, including Anglo American Colombia Exploration, ColGold Inc. Colombia, Consorcio de Inversionistas S.A., Mineros Nacionales S.A. and Ladrilleras Unidas de Antioquia.
Mauricio is the current vice-president of CCRR (the Colombian Commission of Mineral Resources and Reserves), a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG), member of Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), member of de Society of Economic Geologist (SEG), member and vice-president of the Antioquia branch of Sociedad Colombiana de Geología.
Mr. Lopez is a Mining and Metallurgical Engineer of the Mining Faculty of the National University of Colombia and Master of Sciences of the Colorado of School of Mines in mining with emphasis in Geostatistics. More than 40 years of experience in Mining Operations, Ore Reserve Estimation, Mine Planning, Mine Design and Mine Management both Underground and Open Pit Mines for Gold, Limestones and Coal deposits and applied Geostatistics.
Mining Experience in Frontino Gold Mines (UG), Gold, Texas Gulf Mineral and Metals (OP), Gold, Geostat Systems International (Consultant), Carbones la Francia (OP), Coal, Holcim Group Support (OP), Limestone and Industrial Minerals, and lately as Mining Consultant as Expert Witness, Researcher, viewshed analysis for mining operations in Colombia.
Mr. Lopez is the current President of CCRR (the Colombian Commission of Mineral Resources and Reserves), a Registered Member of the SME and CCRR and Secretary of the Colombian Association of Mining Professionals.
Mark has 30 years of experience in the mining industry and has had extensive exposure to the mining value chain, including early-stage exploration projects, shaft sinking, operational mines, mergers, acquisitions, and asset disposals. Mark joined AMC Consultants in 2018 as a Principal Geologist, where his primary responsibilities are undertaking and managing technical geological works including mineral resource estimates, technical reporting, business development, and client support in relation to exploration and production advice. Prior to joining AMC, Mark was a principal consultant and divisional manager (Applied Geosciences) for Snowden Mining Industry Consultants (Pty) Ltd in Johannesburg, South Africa. Previously, Mark worked for Harmony Gold Mining Company (Pty) Ltd as new business manager (Technical) where he was responsible for identifying project acquisitions for the company.
Mark joined PERC in May 2020 and previously had experience of working with SAMCODES. He has chaired PERC’s Training sub-committee since late 2020 and has delivered several training courses and webinars on Minerals Reporting Standards and related matters. Mark also current chairs PERC’ Finance and Regulatory sub-committee.
PV Rao, soon after obtaining M.Sc. Tech degree with Distinction in Applied Geology in 1975, joined Indian mining sector and served with PPCL, Hindustan Copper Ltd and Tata Steel for over three decades. He received specialized training in Geostatistics and Mathematical morphology from Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur during 1984-89, as part of his Research Work leading to award of PhD in 1989.
Dr Rao served Tata Steel as Head of Mine Planning and Chief of Geological Services before he decided to part with them in 2005. Subsequently he held several senior management positons viz. Director Exploration (Chemaf)- DR Congo, Director (SRG Services & Consultancy (P)Ltd)- India, CMD (Mincon Indo Resources)– Indonesia, Senior Mining Advisor (Curvcap Ventures Ltd) – UK and Senior Associate (Behre Dolbear International Ltd)- UK. He was appointed as Honorary Professor of Geology for two years in 2015 by Andhra University, Visakhapatnam.
Dr Rao practiced computerized deposit evaluation and mine planning; and extended consultancy services for minerals from diverse geologic environments, including heavy mineral beach sands, iron ore, chrome ore, manganese ore, phosphorite, limestone, dolomite, magnesite, copper, cobalt, barytes and quartz, and coal deposits both in India and abroad.
Dr Rao is a Member of AusIMM, Life Member of MEAI and SGAT, and Associate Member of SME. He is the Editor of Mining Engineers’ Journal, published monthly by MEAI, since 2017. He is a National Coordinator of International Geological Congress 2020 to be held in New Delhi, India. He was Secretary General of MEAI for 1995-97, and CRIRSCO Representative in India and Co-Chair of NACRI for five years since 2015.
D. B. Sundara Ramam joined Tata Steel as a Graduate Trainee in 1990 after completing B.Sc. Engineering in Mining discipline from NIT, Rourkela.
Worked in various capacities in Coal & Iron ore mines of the Raw Materials Division, Ferro Alloys Division & Principal Executive Officer (PEO) to CEO&MD, Tata Steel for the last 34 years, is currently working as Vice President – Corporate Services, Tata Steel.
Holds a First Class Mine Manager’s Competency Certificate in Coal from DGMS.
Subsequently, he completed the General Management program from XLRI, Jamshedpur, in 1999.
Besides various internal training programs conducted within India, he has also attended the following programs, abroad:
- Tata Group Executive Leadership Development Program in the UK.
- Training program at Sustainable Mineral Institute at Brisbane, Australia.
- Sr. Executive Management Programme at CEDEP, France.
- Global Leadership Development Programme.
Currently, he is President of Mining Engineers’ Association of India (MEAI).
He has published a number of papers on topics related to Sustainable Mining and Innovation.
Currently he is serving as the Director in the Governing Boards of Tata Steel Mineral Canada Limited – Canada , Minas De Benga (Mauritius) Ltd, and Tata Steel Global Procurement Ltd – Singapore.
D. B. Sundara Ramam joined Tata Steel as a Graduate Trainee in 1990 after completing B.Sc. Engineering in Mining discipline from NIT, Rourkela.
Worked in various capacities in Coal & Iron ore mines of the Raw Materials Division, Ferro Alloys Division & Principal Executive Officer (PEO) to CEO&MD, Tata Steel for the last 34 years, is currently working as Vice President – Corporate Services, Tata Steel.
Holds a First Class Mine Manager’s Competency Certificate in Coal from DGMS.
Subsequently, he completed the General Management program from XLRI, Jamshedpur, in 1999.
Besides various internal training programs conducted within India, he has also attended the following programs, abroad:
- Tata Group Executive Leadership Development Program in the UK.
- Training program at Sustainable Mineral Institute at Brisbane, Australia.
- Sr. Executive Management Programme at CEDEP, France.
- Global Leadership Development Programme.
Currently, he is President of Mining Engineers’ Association of India (MEAI).
He has published a number of papers on topics related to Sustainable Mining and Innovation.
Currently he is serving as the Director in the Governing Boards of Tata Steel Mineral Canada Limited – Canada , Minas De Benga (Mauritius) Ltd, and Tata Steel Global Procurement Ltd – Singapore.
Alan has over 22 years’ experience in mining and exploration with several deposits like nickel laterite, bauxite and coal with variety positions include exploration geologist, mine geologist, resource assessment geologist and resources geologist.
Graduate a Bachelor’s Degree in Geological Engineering from Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “VETERAN” Yogyakarta (Indonesia). Alan has worked at PT Yudisthira Bumi Bhakti, PT Tanito Harum Coal, PT Vale Indonesia and now he works at PT Trimegah Bangun Persada as senior manager of ore assessment.
Alan has Registered as Competent Person Indonesia (CPI) for Reporting of Exploration
and Resources Estimation Result for nickel laterite and bauxite deposit under KCMI also Professional Member of Australasia Institute Mining and Metallurgy (MAusIMM), Society of Economic Geologist (SEG), Ikatan Alhi Geologi Indonesia (IAGI) and Masyarakat Geologi Ekonomi Indonesia (MGEI)
Azamat Shalabayev has 24 years of experience in Kazakhstan’s geological and mining industries. In 2002, he graduated with honors from Zhezkazgan University, specializing in the underground mining of mineral deposits, and in 2008, he successfully defended his thesis and was awarded the degree of Candidate of Technical Sciences in the field of Geotechnology.
He serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Geological Industry Development under the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan and Deputy Chairman of the Scientific and Technical Council under the Geology Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Construction of Kazakhstan; he is also the Chairman of the Coordination Council of the KazRC Association.
He possesses extensive experience working with major mining and metallurgical companies in Kazakhstan, where he oversaw operations ranging from design and the execution of geological exploration to deposit development.
During his tenure at the Ministry, he served as Deputy Chairman of the Central Commission on Exploration and Development; this body was responsible for reviewing all projects related to the exploration and extraction of mineral deposits in Kazakhstan.
While working at the Ministry’s Geology Committee, he supervised state-led geological subsoil studies in Central Kazakhstan and also served as Chairman of the Central Commission on Reserves.
During his tenure with the Eurasian Group, he oversaw the establishment of ERG Exploration—the group’s dedicated geological exploration company—and the structuring of exploration activities into a distinct business line. Under his leadership, the specialized ERG GeoHub facility was launched in Rudny, operational bases were established in Rudny and Khromtau, and in-house drilling and geophysical operations were initiated; the company now handles the full exploration cycle, ranging from project design, field surveys, geophysical work, and drilling to 3D deposit modeling and the preparation of reports compliant with international standards such as CRIRSCO and JORC. Under his leadership, active geological exploration is being conducted in the Aktobe and Kostanay regions of Kazakhstan, including at sites containing strategically important mineral resources such as chromite and iron-manganese ores, bauxite, gold, copper, polymetals, rare-earth metals, and others.
Azamat Shalabayev has 24 years of experience in Kazakhstan’s geological and mining industries. In 2002, he graduated with honors from Zhezkazgan University, specializing in the underground mining of mineral deposits, and in 2008, he successfully defended his thesis and was awarded the degree of Candidate of Technical Sciences in the field of Geotechnology.
He serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Geological Industry Development under the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan and Deputy Chairman of the Scientific and Technical Council under the Geology Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Construction of Kazakhstan; he is also the Chairman of the Coordination Council of the KazRC Association.
He possesses extensive experience working with major mining and metallurgical companies in Kazakhstan, where he oversaw operations ranging from design and the execution of geological exploration to deposit development.
During his tenure at the Ministry, he served as Deputy Chairman of the Central Commission on Exploration and Development; this body was responsible for reviewing all projects related to the exploration and extraction of mineral deposits in Kazakhstan.
While working at the Ministry’s Geology Committee, he supervised state-led geological subsoil studies in Central Kazakhstan and also served as Chairman of the Central Commission on Reserves.
During his tenure with the Eurasian Group, he oversaw the establishment of ERG Exploration—the group’s dedicated geological exploration company—and the structuring of exploration activities into a distinct business line. Under his leadership, the specialized ERG GeoHub facility was launched in Rudny, operational bases were established in Rudny and Khromtau, and in-house drilling and geophysical operations were initiated; the company now handles the full exploration cycle, ranging from project design, field surveys, geophysical work, and drilling to 3D deposit modeling and the preparation of reports compliant with international standards such as CRIRSCO and JORC. Under his leadership, active geological exploration is being conducted in the Aktobe and Kostanay regions of Kazakhstan, including at sites containing strategically important mineral resources such as chromite and iron-manganese ores, bauxite, gold, copper, polymetals, rare-earth metals, and others.
Bekasyl Aukeshev has over 11 years of experience in the mining industry. In 2012, he graduated with honors from Karaganda State Technical University, and in 2021, he received his PhD.
Until 2021, he worked as a Geophysical engineer at Azimut Geology LLP, a Geophysicist at state geophysical organizations, a department manager, and then Head of the Tau-Ken Samruk department and Director of the Geological cluster.
In 2023, he successfully completed the Bolashak internship in geology and exploration in the United States.
His next position was Head of the Integrated group at Kazakhmys Barlau LLP, and now he is the General director of Qazaq Geophysics LLP, responsible for organizing field geophysical work, purchasing equipment, recruiting personnel, introducing MT airborne mobile geophysical technology in Kazakhstan (Canada), and conducting geophysical surveys from the air in Perth (Australia).
He is the Executive director of the KAZRC Association, a member of the Committee on Geological, Mining, Coal and Metallurgical Industries of the Presidium of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan “Atameken”, a member of PONEN (Public Association Professional Association of Independent Experts on Subsurface Use of the Republic of Kazakhstan).
PONEN has been involved in the development of national standards of public reporting of exploration results, mineral resources and reserves in compliance with the CRIRSCO template and the development the proposals for improvement of legislation in the sphere of geological survey and subsoil use.
Gerlee has 21 years’ experience in the Mongolian geology and mining environment and has also worked as a consultant with Snowden in Australia. She is the Executive Director of the Mongolian Professional Institute of Geosciences and Mining and Deputy Chair of the MPIGM. Gerlee is a Member of the Australian Institute Mining and Metallurgy and accredited as a Chartered Professional under the Discipline of Geology. She is also a Professional Engineer of Mongolia in discipline of Geology. Gerlee holds a Master of Science degree in Mineral Resource Exploration from The Netherlands and the Bachelor of Science degrees in Geology and Mathematics both from Mongolia.
Since joining Snowden, Gerlee has focused on projects primarily in Mongolia and assisting on projects in Africa and Australia with the main focus areas being orebody modelling, resource estimation, technical documentation and presents Snowden’s professional development training courses. She has specialised on gold deposits both hard rock and placer and estimated several gold deposits resources and reserves in Mongolia. Most recently she was the Chief Mine Geologist at Boroo Gold Mine where she had worked since 2004 for Centerra Gold Inc, a Canadian company. Gerlee has been involved with project reviews, exploration and mining for hard rock and alluvial gold deposits in Mongolia, Kirgizstan and Kazakhstan.
Rolly is a mining engineer with 40 years experience in both open pit and underground mining operations and project development (from feasibility study to construction) of gold, copper, lateritic nickel, oil sands, and aggregates deposits. He obtained his BSc in Mining Engineering and MSc in Geotechnical Engineering from the Mapua Institute of Technology in the Philippines, in 1982 and 2004, respectively. He is a member of the Philippines Society of Mining Engineers (PSEM) and an Accredited Competent Person-Mining Engineer under the Philippine Mineral Reporting Code (PMRC).
Rolly is a member of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology of the Philippine Technological Council and a member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM).
He presently holds multiple positions as
- Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Cagdianao Mining Corporation,
- Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Taganito Mining Corporation, and
- Vice President, Mining Business of Nickel Asia Corporation.
He also sits in the Board of publicly listed Concrete Aggregates Corporation as an Independent Director.
Rolly is a mining engineer with 40 years experience in both open pit and underground mining operations and project development (from feasibility study to construction) of gold, copper, lateritic nickel, oil sands, and aggregates deposits. He obtained his BSc in Mining Engineering and MSc in Geotechnical Engineering from the Mapua Institute of Technology in the Philippines, in 1982 and 2004, respectively. He is a member of the Philippines Society of Mining Engineers (PSEM) and an Accredited Competent Person-Mining Engineer under the Philippine Mineral Reporting Code (PMRC).
Rolly is a member of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology of the Philippine Technological Council and a member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM).
He presently holds multiple positions as
- Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Cagdianao Mining Corporation,
- Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Taganito Mining Corporation, and
- Vice President, Mining Business of Nickel Asia Corporation.
He also sits in the Board of publicly listed Concrete Aggregates Corporation as an Independent Director.
Mr. Epstein graduated in Mining from the State St. Petersburg Mining University in 1982 and completed his post-graduate study in 1994 at the same university. He has 42 years of experience in quarry and underground mine design. His career path has gone from an engineer to a department head at Giproruda, a leading industry state-owned project institute. He has designed major iron-ore quarries, as well as apatite, diamond, coal and gold deposits in Russia. Mr. Epstein has a number of patents on opencut mining methods, and has taken part in the development of industry-wide regulations on quarry design. Since 1998, when the Polymetal Engineering center was established at Polymetal, he has been heading design operations for the majority of precious metals and copper quarries and underground mines developed by the company. The most recent two positions he occupied were Head of the Mining and Technological Division and consultant. Mr. Epstein is a member of Polymetal’s scientific and technical council. He was also engaged in the development of corporate policies and procedures, including the “Methodology of defining and applying cut-off grades in public reports according to the JORC Code”. He is the author of publications on alignment of Russian minerals reporting standards and the CRIRSCO Template, Russian classification of reserves, and cut-off grades. He initiated and coordinated the process of translating into Russian world bestsellers on geology, mining, geomechanics, cut-off grade theory and mining economics that facilitated Polymetal to achieve TOP 10 status among world gold mining companies, as well as update Russian design rules and regulations for opencut and underground mining in the field of geomechanics based on global best practices. From 2010 to 2022, as a Competent Person (FIMMM), Mr. Epstein was responsible for the “Ore Reserves” section in annual public reporting according to the JORC Code. He is a member of the OERN Executive Board.
Mr. Epstein graduated in Mining from the State St. Petersburg Mining University in 1982 and completed his post-graduate study in 1994 at the same university. He has 42 years of experience in quarry and underground mine design. His career path has gone from an engineer to a department head at Giproruda, a leading industry state-owned project institute. He has designed major iron-ore quarries, as well as apatite, diamond, coal and gold deposits in Russia. Mr. Epstein has a number of patents on opencut mining methods, and has taken part in the development of industry-wide regulations on quarry design. Since 1998, when the Polymetal Engineering center was established at Polymetal, he has been heading design operations for the majority of precious metals and copper quarries and underground mines developed by the company. The most recent two positions he occupied were Head of the Mining and Technological Division and consultant. Mr. Epstein is a member of Polymetal’s scientific and technical council. He was also engaged in the development of corporate policies and procedures, including the “Methodology of defining and applying cut-off grades in public reports according to the JORC Code”. He is the author of publications on alignment of Russian minerals reporting standards and the CRIRSCO Template, Russian classification of reserves, and cut-off grades. He initiated and coordinated the process of translating into Russian world bestsellers on geology, mining, geomechanics, cut-off grade theory and mining economics that facilitated Polymetal to achieve TOP 10 status among world gold mining companies, as well as update Russian design rules and regulations for opencut and underground mining in the field of geomechanics based on global best practices. From 2010 to 2022, as a Competent Person (FIMMM), Mr. Epstein was responsible for the “Ore Reserves” section in annual public reporting according to the JORC Code. He is a member of the OERN Executive Board.
gor has degrees in geology, ore deposits and economic geology from Moscow State University, Geological Faculty. MSc (Geology), Post-Grad. (Economic Geology). He has over 25 years’ professional experience in the Russian mining industry and has worked on a number of mineral projects in Siberia, Transbaikalia, Chukotka and Far East of Russia, covering a wide variety of ore deposit types of Russia mesothermal, epithermal, porphyry and alluvial gold; copper porphyry deposits, skarn type of tungsten-molybdenum deposits, lead and zinc and etc. He has planned, supervised and managed field programs from regional exploration to large resource evaluation programs. He has significant consulting experience including database development and management, resource modeling, project evaluation and due diligence.
About 10 years Igor was a lecturer of the Geological Faculty of the Moscow State University. Igor has an extensive network of contacts extending across the Russian mining industry, financial, legal, government and non-government institutions. Certified Expert of NAEN (National Association for Subsoil Users, Russia), Member of AIG, SEG, OERN (Russian Society of Geosciences Experts). For the last six years Igor has been a member of Executive committee of Russian Society of Subsoil Users – OERN. And executive Director of OERN. More than 11 years, organizes and hold activities – “Mining and geological business Forum “MINGEO Siberia” (mining and geology), in Krasnoyarsk city (Siberia). He has honorable awards from the Ministry of the natural resources and ecology of Russia – “Honorable explorer of mineral resources”, 2017.
Nicole is a Resource Geologist with more than 19 years’ experience in the platinum mining industry. She has held various positions in her career ranging from operational geology to exploration management and mineral resources. She has developed a wealth of experience in aspects of geological modelling, ore production, mineral resource management, evaluation, resource estimation and on-mine exploration. Nicole is the Unit Manager Geology – Resources with Sibanye-Stillwater for the PGM Segment. In her current role she is responsible and accountable, as Competent Person, for the consolidation and Public Reporting of the company’s SA PGM Mineral Resources in compliance with the relevant reporting codes and stock exchange rules (e.g. SAMREC, SK-1300 rules etc).
Nicole studied Geology at the University of the Pretoria and completed her MSc (cum laude) in Geology through the University of the Witwatersrand. She has also undertaken additional studies at the Wits Business School and the University of Witwatersrand. She is a registered scientist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions and a fellow of the Geological Society of South Africa.
Nicole is a Resource Geologist with more than 19 years’ experience in the platinum mining industry. She has held various positions in her career ranging from operational geology to exploration management and mineral resources. She has developed a wealth of experience in aspects of geological modelling, ore production, mineral resource management, evaluation, resource estimation and on-mine exploration. Nicole is the Unit Manager Geology – Resources with Sibanye-Stillwater for the PGM Segment. In her current role she is responsible and accountable, as Competent Person, for the consolidation and Public Reporting of the company’s SA PGM Mineral Resources in compliance with the relevant reporting codes and stock exchange rules (e.g. SAMREC, SK-1300 rules etc).
Nicole studied Geology at the University of the Pretoria and completed her MSc (cum laude) in Geology through the University of the Witwatersrand. She has also undertaken additional studies at the Wits Business School and the University of Witwatersrand. She is a registered scientist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions and a fellow of the Geological Society of South Africa.
Teresa is an environmental, social and governance (ESG) practitioner with over 20 years’ experience of integrating ESG considerations into mining developments, technical studies, and reports aligned to international mineral reporting codes.
Initially qualified and working as a geologist, Teresa transitioned into the environmental field, gaining experience and further qualifications in environmental science, law, and policy. She is currently a Principal Consultant with SRK (UK) where she applies her expertise to the assessment, integration, management, and review of ESG considerations across all phases of the mining lifecycle. Teresa draws on her experience and education to evaluate the interconnections between the range of disciplines involved in mining developments to identify areas of synergy, threat, and opportunity.
Teresa’s broad experience includes management of environmental issues at mine site, business unit and company group level. She has implemented environmental management systems, managed legal compliance and permitting obligations and processes, and completed ESG components of feasibility studies, mineral reports, and due diligence reviews.
Teresa holds Masters Degrees from the Vermont Law School (USA) and University of the Free State (South Africa). She is a fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, a member of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and current Chair of the SAMCODES ESG Committee (SAMESG).
Teresa is an environmental, social and governance (ESG) practitioner with over 20 years’ experience of integrating ESG considerations into mining developments, technical studies, and reports aligned to international mineral reporting codes.
Initially qualified and working as a geologist, Teresa transitioned into the environmental field, gaining experience and further qualifications in environmental science, law, and policy. She is currently a Principal Consultant with SRK (UK) where she applies her expertise to the assessment, integration, management, and review of ESG considerations across all phases of the mining lifecycle. Teresa draws on her experience and education to evaluate the interconnections between the range of disciplines involved in mining developments to identify areas of synergy, threat, and opportunity.
Teresa’s broad experience includes management of environmental issues at mine site, business unit and company group level. She has implemented environmental management systems, managed legal compliance and permitting obligations and processes, and completed ESG components of feasibility studies, mineral reports, and due diligence reviews.
Teresa holds Masters Degrees from the Vermont Law School (USA) and University of the Free State (South Africa). She is a fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, a member of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and current Chair of the SAMCODES ESG Committee (SAMESG).
Mr Yuceer has the degree of BS from the Geological Engineering Department of Middle East Technical University. After his graduation in 1998, he worked in Mining Industry with different international and national groups. The notable ones are Teck (CDN), Major Drilling (CDN), Odyssey Resources (CDN), Chesser Resources (AUS), Kalyon Holding (TR) and Cengiz Holdings (TR) He’s currently the General Manager of Artvin Mining Enterprises Inc.
He’s been elected as the member of UMREK in 2018 to contribute implementing the best known industrial practises to the Mining sector in Turkey. He’s also the member of the Association of Geosciences, Mining and Metallurgy Professionals (YERMAM, the Turkish RPO).
Specialities;
- Base and Precious Metals Exploration
- Planning & Execution of Exploration Programs
- Project Evaluation
- Minerals Exploration and Exploitation Management
Mr Yuceer has the degree of BS from the Geological Engineering Department of Middle East Technical University. After his graduation in 1998, he worked in Mining Industry with different international and national groups. The notable ones are Teck (CDN), Major Drilling (CDN), Odyssey Resources (CDN), Chesser Resources (AUS), Kalyon Holding (TR) and Cengiz Holdings (TR) He’s currently the General Manager of Artvin Mining Enterprises Inc.
He’s been elected as the member of UMREK in 2018 to contribute implementing the best known industrial practises to the Mining sector in Turkey. He’s also the member of the Association of Geosciences, Mining and Metallurgy Professionals (YERMAM, the Turkish RPO).
Specialities;
- Base and Precious Metals Exploration
- Planning & Execution of Exploration Programs
- Project Evaluation
- Minerals Exploration and Exploitation Management
Prof. Dr. Atiye TUGRUL graduated from Istanbul University, Department of Geological Engineering. She has 31 years experience in the mineral industry (specialising in the construction raw materials, cement feed materials and dimension stone). She is currently working in Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa and responsible for Natural Stone Laboratory at the Department of Geological Engineering. She worked as a “Visiting Professor” at Kent State University, Department of Geological Engineering and Virginia Tech University, Department of Mining Engineering in USA in 2011.
Prof. Tuğrul held the position as a Vice Chairman which was responsible for Europe at the International Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment (IAEG) in between 2010 and 2014. She has been the chairman of the IAEG Aggregate Commission since 2004. She organized Aggregate Commission meetings and technical visits to aggregate quarries in many countries. She is also a member of the IAEG Commission on Building and Ornamental Stones. In this context, she contributed to the development of the sector both in the world and in Turkey.
Prof. Dr. Atiye Tuğrul, was opted to UMREK in 2018 to provide particular input on the reporting of construction raw materials, industrial minerals, dimension stones and their wastes. She is a founding member and board member of Association of Geosciences, Mining and Metallurgy Professionals (YERMAM). She is Honorary Member of the Aggregate Producer Association (AGUB) in Turkey. She is also founding member of the Turkish Society for Engineering Geology and Advisory Board Member of Turkish Mining Development Foundation since 2005.
She worked as a coordinator or researcher in many national and international research projects, mostly on construction raw materials and natural stones. She has given technical consultancy to many projects and private companies. She is currently leadind the Project regarding combining 16 aggregate quarries in Istanbul/Turkey.
Brian has more than 20 years of experience in the global mining and minerals industry. His broad experiences in nearly every facet of mining make him a highly competent and valuable asset to any project. Brian is a Qualified/Competent Person for reporting mineral reserves, and has considerable experience on limestone deposits for clinker and cement production. He also has experience in coal, salt, and zinc.
Specialties:
- Mineral deposits for the cement industry
- Mine planning & development utilizing Carlson Software (SurvCADD) and GIS applications.
- Reserve Statements (CRIRSCO, S-K 1300, JORC, NI 43-101, etc.)
- Financial Due Diligence and Lender Technical Advisor (LTA)
- Mineral Appraisals
Mr. Hulse received his BSc in Mining Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines in 1982. Mr. Hulse has worked in various aspects of the industry with strong experience in mineral resource estimation and mine planning in polymetallic sulfide deposits, precious metals deposits, iron ore, mineral sands, volcanogenic massive sulfides, and sedimentary evaporites.
Mr. Hulse has worked on the engineering staffs of mines in the US, Mexico, and Chile, as a planning engineer, a chief engineer, and an engineering superintendent. Prior to Gustavson Assoc., he was Technical Manager of Cia Minera Dolores for Minefinders USA and General Manager for Minera San Xavier for Metallica Resources, where he managed the construction and permitting team to initiate mine production.
Mr. Hulse has published papers and speaks often at conferences in the USA, Canada, Mexico and Peru. He teaches industry classes in mineral resource modeling, and strategic open pit planning. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in Colorado, a Registered Member of SME and a Member of the AIMMGM in Mexico, as well as a “Qualified Person” as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101.