Nompumelelo ‘Mpumi’ Zikalala brings on board over 20 years of mining experience, having started her career as a Chemical Engineering bursar at Anglo American.
At the time when the mining industry needs visionary, hands-on and assertive leadership, the Kumba Iron Ore Board’s appointment of the Nompumelelo ‘Mpumi’ Zikalala as CEO is groundbreaking. The move opens a chapter where women will be at the proverbial coalface of action, ushering the organisation into a new era where ‘increasing efficiency, cost-containment and enhancing safety’ are more relevant than ever. “Her appointment is another demonstration of our commitment as a business towards nurturing and supporting the success of women. We look forward to her leadership in advancing the strategic and operational aspirations of Kumba,” Terence Goodlace, Chairman of Kumba, comments.
Goodlace hailed Mpumi’s appointment, underlining that the company could not have found a more perfect talent. Mpumi brings over 20 years of mining experience, having started her career as a Chemical Engineering bursar at Anglo American and having held a number of senior operational and commercial leadership roles at De Beers.
Revelling in her new role, Mpumi says: “It is a privilege to be appointed as CEO of Kumba. My focus will be to build on Kumba’s strong safety and operational performance track record, strengthening strategic partnerships and unlocking further value from the business.”
She adds: “I look forward to joining Kumba’s world class team and contributing to the next phase of Kumba’s journey to be the most valued company in the eyes of our stakeholders.”
Mpumi, previously Managing Director of De Beers – Managed Operations, succeeds Themba Mkhwanazi who has been appointed CEO of Anglo American’s global Bulk Commodities business.
Mpumi will assume office on 1 January 2022.
