The Next Frontier of Metals and Mining

Q1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

I'm a project and portfolio management leader with 16 years in mining and non-ferrous metals, managing capex programs up to $1+ billion across RUSAL, Nornickel, ERG, and UGMK. My background spans full-cycle project delivery (FEL 1–3), operational turnarounds, and corporate-level capex transformation. I'm a co-author of 7 patents in aluminum alloy casting and co-developer of Russian metallurgical standards. My expertise centers on three areas: capex portfolio optimization, production system design (including Mine-to-Mill integration), and operational resilience under market volatility. I've led teams managing 305-person production units and coordinated 30+ specialists across geologies, processing, and engineering disciplines. My approach is grounded in hands-on operational reality, not theoretical frameworks—I report to boards, investment committees, and general directors on capital deployment and risk.

Q2. What structural shifts are most reshaping the global non-ferrous metals and mining industry today?

Three major changes are shaping the industry. First, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors and resource nationalism are making it harder and slower to get capital projects approved. Companies are now seeing delays of 12 to 24 months, mainly because of the need…