Poised for growth by embracing change and adapting to new realities
Poised for growth by embracing change and adapting to new realities
Interview with Deborah McCombe, Technical Director of Global Mining Advisory for SLR Consulting Limited.
How long have you been associated with the chamber?
We are relatively new members as we joined in November 2019.
How did you hear about PCCC, and what made you join us?
We attended many of the seminars and webinars PCCC hosts and have found the ones related to mining very relevant to our business.
We decided to join the PCCC as we could see an excellent opportunity to expand our network in the vibrant mining industry in Peru. Since we joined the PCCC, we have actively worked together on special events, such as facilitating the PERU’S MINING POLICY 2020-2021 conference at the PDAC conference in March 2020. Most recently, we are working with PCCC to launch the PCCC Mining Committee.
What are SLR’s business objectives and how is being a member of PCCC helping you achieve those?
SLR’s business objectives are to promote our capabilities and grow our presence in the South American mining industry, particularly in Peru. The PCCC has been helping us promote our business by providing introductions to potential clients and networking opportunities.
How it has changed now that RPA has been acquired by SLR?
Now that we have been acquired by SLR our capabilities and services have expanded. RPA is well known for its mineral resource and mineral reserves audits, due diligence and expert witness capabilities and now we have in-house experts in environmental, social, and governance (ESG),tailings, geotechnical and mine closure so we can offer services through all the stages of the mining cycle.
What’s the biggest challenge you have with your specific role right now and what are you doing or planning to do, to overcome it?
We have been very successful in servicing SA clients from Canada and the US in the past, even under current COVID-19 related circumstances. Our plan is to use the current circumstances to increase our presence. We intend to have a local presence in Peru and likely Brazil, within the next twelve months.
How has COVID-19 impacted your operations?
Like most companies, we have moved to working from home. This can pose an array of challenges in our line of work, both professional and personal. We have adapted our approach to work with the current circumstances and continue to remain busy. We make an effort to be in regular contact with our clients and the SLR technical teams to ensure projects continue to move forward.
Now that the economy is opening up, what measures have you taken to have your employees safely return to work? Has the fear of the second wave impacted it?
Our leadership team is regularly monitoring the situation and providing advice and support. We remain vigilant with our efforts to keep our colleagues, clients, and the communities we visit safe and still provide the very best service and advice to our clients.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to enter the Peruvian market?
It is critical to know the culture, understand the political climate and how business in Peru works. Developing local partnerships and strong business relationships are also key.
Anything else that you would like to share with our readers, especially keeping in mind the current scenario?
Be flexible, adaptable and embrace the need to make changes in how we do business.
About SLR Consulting Limited.
SLR is a global leader in environmental and advisory solutions, helping clients achieve their sustainability goals. Founded in 1994, SLR has been advising clients for over 25 years at every point of their project life-cycle. Starting as a UK business, they now operate as a global company with more than 1600 people delivering client solutions across five regions.