March 2024

Our industry is constantly evolving, and so are we

During the past few years, Xenith has undergone a significant period of evolution, reshaping our business model to deliver growth in an industry that is ever-changing. An integral part of that process has been an investment in our people.

From graduate engineer to general manager, we’ve strengthened our ranks from the ground up, marrying the real-world experience and expertise of senior executives with the fresh perspective of younger people, who can enjoy a clear roadmap for meaningful career development as part of our graduate initiatives.

A key decision that was taken has been the appointment of Schalk Viljoen as General Manager for Strategy and Growth. Drawing on his track record in areas such as business development, corporate finance and relationship management, his initial focus is on supporting the management team in developing and enhancing our internal systems, standards and tools to ensure they are fit for purpose.

While his role is agile, Schalk is based in the Brisbane office, where further expansion activity has broadened the company’s ESG remit through a trio of new hires.

Romana Thefs, meanwhile, draws on a wealth of experience across mining, construction and heavy freight to advance her role as ESG decarbonisation lead. Her focus includes compliance and delivery of environmental and sustainability outcomes.

As ESG economist and industry advisor, Cristian Parra Rojas focuses on independent and strategic advice to reinforce the ESG discussion of the extractive industry and its contribution to social development and prosperity.

They are joined by Adrian Platt, a fifth-year QUT Chemical Engineering and Earth Science Student, who is a casual undergraduate ESG engineer.

On the other side of Australia, meanwhile, respected resources industry executive David Morgan has taken the reins as manager of Xenith’s new Perth office.

His appointment represents a significant triumph, given his 35-year background in multiple commodity sectors – including gold, copper, nickel, iron ore and coal – and at all levels of operational development and business management.

David brings Xenith’s technical and advisory expertise to Western Australia’s resources industry and will be leading the WA team’s integrated services to new and existing customers across all phases of the asset lifecycle.

While these hires serving as highlights, our extensive investment in Xenith’s people has encompassed all four of our Australian office locations. Other recently appointed positions have included field geologist, principal mining engineer, environmental scientist and exploration supervisor.

And, while they may cover very different roles and responsibilities, they do unite in a common purpose – to support Xenith’s evolution in line with industry changes and to empower a growth strategy that includes domestic and international expansion and renewed service areas including metals, environmental approvals, cultural heritage and ESG solutions.

Ultimately, it speaks to an ethos which underpins everything Xenith does: Our industry is constantly evolving, and so are we.

Meet all of the talented people helping us lead the way here.