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Mining ESG Consultant
Mining ESG Consultant
Ben Lepley
Ben Lepley
What is your job title?
Mining ESG Consultant
What qualifications do you have?
10 GCSEs> 3 A levels> MESci (Geology, Cardiff University)
What sort of organisation do you work for?
Consulting (sustainability and mining)
What does a Mining ESG Consultant do?
We try to develop responsible mineral exploration and mining practices for our clients (including exploration companies, operating mines, financial institutions). Through doing this we hope to contribute to the UN's sustainable development goals and protect local communities and environment around mine sites.
What formal qualifications and/or previous work experience did you need to get your job?
Masters degree in Geology (MESci) then on the job training. I have taken ad hoc training courses whilst being employed, but mostly learn through doing and mentoring from experienced staff.
Apart from formal qualifications, what other skills or characteristics do you need in your role?
Project management is a key part of consultancy and having to manage client expectations. Juggling with many projects at one time can be challenging so patience is key. Also, you need good communication skills to effectively describe the work.
Where else could you work as a Mining ESG Consultant?
Mining company, mineral exploration company, sustainability consultancy, legal advisor, governmental organisation, academia, accountancy firm, environmental regulator.
Have you had a career break or career change?
Yes - changed from mineral resource geologist to environmental, social and governance specialist
If this wasn’t your first job after your studies, what did you do in-between?
I was a resource geologist first - creating geological models of ore deposits and estimating mineral resources.
"The amazing places I travel to and people I meet make the (sometimes stressful) job worthwhile"
"The amazing places I travel to and people I meet make the (sometimes stressful) job worthwhile"
Do you travel, either within the UK or overseas, in your role?
Yes - to start with a lot (maybe 1/4 of the year) of overseas travel to exploration and mining projects. Often in Africa and northern Europe.
Do you work a regular length day/week, or are shifts involved?
Normally 37.5hours/week but site visits can be more like 80 hour weeks.
What do you enjoy about your job?
Variety of work with interesting challenges to solve. The amazing places I travel to and people I meet make the (sometimes stressful job) worthwhile. Working in a large, diverse team with a range of backgrounds.
What advice or extra information do you wish you’d had before starting this career?
Listen more to the GIS lecturer. GIS mapping is so important in most geoscience careers. Get good at it early so you don't struggle when you are older.
What opportunities do you have for developing your skills in your current role?
Many - going into different industries using my consulting skills. I can go into management if I wanted to. I could change company completely and work for the exploration/mining company or financial institution.
What position would you like to hold in 5 years time?
Technical director / Principle Consultant
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