Obed Nkweni Letsholo
Klerksdorp
Summary
Obed completed studies in 1986 as an Electrical Engineer at the Vaal University of Technology. Obed did training with Anglo American Platinum (Rustenburg Platinum Mines) till got a certificate of competency. Obed joined AngloGoldAshanti as plant engineer and appointed on the plant upgrade project as construction manager. Obed was appointed as Engineering Manager on the shaft and on the metallurgical plant. Obed joined Read Swatman and Voight as Lead Engineer / Engineering Manager and progressed to Project Manager on few of their projects. Following where some of the experience gained on the job as Engineering Manager and Project Manager: Manage and coach all engineering disciplines for all technical and personnel related manners. As Engineering Manager or Project Manager on projects performed, organize/plan jobs, support proposal and estimate. Write and review of specifications including design criteria; Prepared and maintained schedules; Developed and maintained manpower estimates and forecasts, assign work, work with project team and client team; Material procurement using the Lotus Notes system and subcontract activities on contract management; Served a supervising role where was providing guidance/supervision to others and functions as mentor to other engineers; Prepared proposals estimates to include man-hour, material forecasts and project schedules; Responsible and owner of the projects audit and the achievement of the action plans; Travel, as required to ensure the successful execution of project; Administer performance appraisal input and counseling for all reporting to me; and The development and building of client relationship. Obed is currently working on the Construction of the Solar Project as the appointed mine manager (3.1(a)) responsible as a legally appointed person. The project is designed for 68Mw and on a farm with a size of 250Ha. Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth. Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Overview
45
45
years of professional experience
Work History
Mine Manager
Elsewedy & Edison Africa
07.2023 - 10.2024
- Construction of Solar Plant in Lephalale for Exxaro/Cennergi
- Appointed as 3.1(a) manager for the site
- Responsible for health and safety on-site
- Managed a team of skilled professionals, fostering an environment of teamwork and collaboration.
Senior Project Manager - Construction
Project EQ
11.2022 - 03.2023
- Construction of a Solar and BESS for Rio Tinto (QMM) Madagascar
- Owners team member
- Presented regular status reports to executive leadership, providing insights into progress made toward achieving key milestones.
- Adapted quickly to unexpected challenges or obstacles encountered during project execution, devising creative solutions without compromising objectives.
- Led cross-functional teams for successful project delivery within scope, schedule, and budget constraints.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to determine timely delivery and compliance of project requirements.
Senior Project Manager (Owners Team)
Royal Bafokeng Platinum
05.2018 - 10.2022
- Owner Project Manager for: 160ktpm plant upgrade study work and Construction
- Maseve TSF extension
- BRPM TSF extension
- BRPM UG2 conversion conception to FEED studies
- Maseve 200ktpm/ROM handling FEED
- BRPM floating penstock construction
Senior Project Manager (Owners Team)
Royal Bafokeng Platinum
11.2014 - 02.2018
- Responsible for the execution of the 250ktpm concentrator upgrade
- Construction of the 10000ton silo, the overland conveyor and the in plant upgrade
- Maintained schedules to meet key milestones at every project phase.
- Directed changes to project scope and cost and implemented appropriate change management processes to keep project on track.
- Presented regular status reports to executive leadership, providing insights into progress made toward achieving key milestones.
- Established effective communication channels with stakeholders to ensure transparency and alignment of expectations.
- Adapted quickly to unexpected challenges or obstacles encountered during project execution, devising creative solutions without compromising objectives.
- Provided outstanding service to clients through effective communication and prompt issue resolution to facilitate future business opportunities.
- Communicated project plans and progress to key stakeholders and project contributors.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, securing favorable terms for the organization''s benefit.
- Developed comprehensive project plans, identifying risks and mitigation strategies for timely completion.
- Developed and maintained project budgets to control costs and meet organizational and project goals.
- Led cross-functional teams for successful project delivery within scope, schedule, and budget constraints.
- Monitored project progress, identified risks and implemented corrective measures to acquire success.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations by staying current on changes in legislation or guidelines relevant to projects'' scopes.
- Established and managed change management processes to fulfill successful project transitions.
- Implemented change management processes to accommodate evolving project requirements while minimizing disruptions.
- Managed budgets exceeding $1 million while effectively controlling costs through diligent financial oversight.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to determine timely delivery and compliance of project requirements.
- Evaluated vendor proposals, selecting those that provided the best value for cost, quality, and timeliness.
- Optimized resource allocation by closely monitoring project progress and adjusting team assignments as needed.
- Crafted and maintained project plans and schedules to meet organizational objectives.
- Nurtured strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, building trust and credibility that facilitated smooth collaboration on shared goals.
- Oversaw large portfolio of projects to support teams, report progress, and influence positive outcomes for key stakeholders.
- Monitored contracts and service level agreements to identify potential risks and implement mitigation actions to protect development process from unforeseen delays and costs.
- Recruited and oversaw personnel to achieve performance and quality targets.
- Sourced, vetted and managed vendors needed to accomplish project goals.
Corporate Social Investment and New Business Development Executive
RSV
01.2012 - 11.2014
- Responsible for corporate social responsibility projects undertaken by the company (did work for the Neonatal clinic, building of a 15class school)
- Responsible for new business development and marketing including proposals
- Delivered presentations at industry conferences, raising company profile and attracting potential clients.
- Provided exceptional customer service by promptly addressing client concerns and resolving issues as they arose.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for product improvement, driving innovation in the company''s offerings.
- Built strong relationships with clients, leading to increased customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Increased client base by identifying and pursuing new business opportunities through market research and networking.
- Established and maintained highly effective relationships with clients and industry partners to drive growth.
- Communicated directly with customers and partners to build strong business networks and relationships.
- Negotiated contracts with key stakeholders, resulting in favorable terms for the company and long-term partnerships.
- Created compelling proposals that demonstrated the unique value of our products/services while addressing client needs and expectations.
Project Manager
RSV
01.2006 - 01.2013
- Motivating the Project Team Members
- Co-ordinating, controlling and directing the activities of all project team members to ensure that the project meets and exceeds the Client’s expectation
- Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
- Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
- Established effective communication among team members for enhanced collaboration and successful project completion.
- Developed comprehensive project plans with clear timelines, milestones, and budget requirements, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality results.
- Delivered exceptional customer satisfaction by proactively addressing client concerns and meeting or exceeding expectations throughout the engagement process.
- Monitored progress against established goals, adjusting schedules and resources as needed to keep projects on track.
- Developed strong relationships with stakeholders through regular communication updates, fostering trust and confidence in the team''s ability to deliver results.
- Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
- Collaborated closely with senior management to align project objectives with strategic company initiatives, ensuring that efforts contributed to overall business growth.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks.
- Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
- Provided detailed project status updates to stakeholders and executive management.
- Managed risk assessments and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize potential issues during project execution.
- Managed projects from procurement to commission.
- Prepared detailed reports on project status for stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment with objectives.
- Coordinated material procurement and required services for projects within budget requirements.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, securing quality materials at competitive prices for efficient use of resources.
- Negotiated and managed third-party contracts related to project deliverables.
- Effectively managed scope creep by establishing clear boundaries on requested changes while keeping projects aligned with original objectives and budgets.
- Enhanced project visibility, implementing dashboard and reporting tools for real-time progress monitoring.
- Completed projects within tight deadlines, coordinating team efforts and prioritizing tasks effectively.
- Maintained compliance with industry standards and regulations, conducting regular audits and updates to project practices.
- Improved stakeholder satisfaction with detailed project updates and proactive issue resolution.
- Met project deadlines without sacrificing build quality or workplace safety.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams and resolved conflicts, maintaining a positive work environment throughout the project lifecycle.
- Provided detailed technical and operational direction in project challenges, consistently meeting deliverables according to deadlines.
- Created accurate budgets based on resource requirements, allowing for optimal allocation of funds across all aspects of the projects.
- Enhanced overall project success by conducting thorough post-project evaluations and incorporating lessons learned into future efforts.
- Developed comprehensive risk management plans, minimizing project delays and unexpected challenges.
- Enhanced project delivery times by streamlining communication channels between development and operations teams.
Engineering Manager
AngloGoldAshanti
01.2005 - 01.2006
- Protection of assets through the effective application of and adherence to standards
- Management, participation, cooperation and follow-up of all engineering audits
- Led cross-functional teams for successful product development, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to specifications.
- Enhanced overall team productivity with continuous training and mentoring of junior engineers.
- Reviewed technical documentation for accuracy, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Managed risk assessments during project planning phases, proactively mitigating potential issues before they arose during execution stages.
- Fostered a culture of innovation and continuous improvement by encouraging the sharing of ideas, leading to increased creativity and problem-solving capabilities within the team.
- Evaluated project requirements to identify and mitigate risks.
- Evaluated vendor proposals to ensure high-quality materials were sourced at competitive prices while maintaining strong relationships with suppliers.
- Optimized resource allocation, effectively managing budgets and manpower for multiple simultaneous projects.
- Streamlined communication between departments by establishing regular meetings, improving collaboration on complex projects.
- Checked design compliance with product specifications and standards requirements.
Manager Tailings and Land Management (SA Region)
AngloGoldAshanti
01.2003 - 01.2005
- Responsible for the proper installation, maintenance, care and operation and running of all mechanical and electrical machinery and the compliance with the machinery regulations affecting the safety of persons
- Responsible for the operation (deposition and mining) of the tailings dams in the Vaal Reefs (Orkney) and West Wits (Carletonville)
- Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Maintained professional, organized, and safe environment for employees and patrons.
- Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Maximized performance by monitoring daily activities and mentoring team members.
- Controlled costs to keep business operating within budget and increase profits.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
- Improved safety procedures to create safe working conditions for workers.
- Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
- Reduced operational costs through comprehensive process improvement initiatives and resource management.
Engineering Manager
AngloGoldAshanti
01.2002 - 01.2003
- Responsible to the General Manager for the proper installation, maintenance, care and operation and running of all mechanical and electrical machinery and the compliance with the machinery regulations affecting the safety persons
- Led cross-functional teams for successful product development, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to specifications.
- Enhanced overall team productivity with continuous training and mentoring of junior engineers.
- Reviewed technical documentation for accuracy, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Optimized resource allocation, effectively managing budgets and manpower for multiple simultaneous projects.
- Checked design compliance with product specifications and standards requirements.
- Coordinated selection of manufacturing methods, fabrication, and operation of product designs.
- Improved engineering processes by streamlining workflows and implementing efficient project management techniques.
- Identified areas of improvement in existing systems, providing recommendations that resulted in significant cost savings over time.
- Addressed design challenges and evaluated alternative design models to meet project requirements.
Shaft Engineer
AngloGoldAshanti
01.2000 - 01.2002
- Responsible for the safe installation, maintenance and operation and running of all mechanical and electrical machinery and the compliance with the machinery regulations affecting the safety of persons
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement and implement strategic solutions that boosted overall performance.
- Ensured safety compliance by conducting regular training sessions and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations.
- Reduced waste generation through continuous process improvement initiatives and diligent monitoring of resource consumption.
- Implemented energy-saving measures throughout the facility, resulting in significant cost savings over time without compromising operational efficiency.
- Streamlined workflow processes, optimizing staff allocation during peak production hours for increased productivity.
- Enhanced system reliability through thorough monitoring of operational parameters and making timely adjustments as needed.
- Increased equipment lifespan with proactive maintenance planning, reducing the need for costly replacements or repairs.
- Optimized inventory management practices by tracking usage patterns and adjusting reordering protocols accordingly to minimize stockouts or excess supply.
- Managed shift schedules, coordinating employee leaves and overtime to maintain optimal staffing levels at all times.
- Improved plant efficiency by conducting regular equipment inspections and implementing preventive maintenance strategies.
- Played a key role in new equipment installations, providing technical expertise during commissioning activities to ensure successful integration into existing systems.
- Assisted in the development of operating budgets, using historical data and projected needs to make informed financial decisions for the department.
- Maintained detailed records of plant operations, identifying trends and potential bottlenecks to address before they impacted production goals.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives by actively seeking out and sharing best practices with colleagues throughout the organization.
Plant Engineer / Construction Manager
AngloGoldAshanti
01.1998 - 01.2000
- As plant engineer, has the responsibility of the plants availability and safety responsibility
- Responsible for managing the tailings dam as a structure
- Complied with applicable mechanical and electrical regulatory standards for gold plant operation.
- Audited and trained maintenance personnel to verify presence of necessary skills and competencies.
- Developed training programs for junior engineers and technicians, fostering a skilled workforce capable of handling complex tasks independently.
- Provided technical support to the production team, troubleshooting issues and offering swift resolutions.
- Remained abreast of new and emerging industry regulations and guidelines for plant operations.
- Created standardized set-ups for staff workstations and tools to streamline opening and closing operations.
- Led root cause analysis efforts to identify recurring problems and develop long-term solutions.
- Optimized production rates by analyzing equipment performance and implementing necessary adjustments.
- Implemented energy-saving measures, resulting in reduced operational costs without compromising productivity.
- Prepared performance appraisals of plan personnel, highlighting exceptional performances and illustrating remedial requirements.
- Designed and enforced best-practice methodologies.
- Enhanced plant efficiency by implementing process improvements and equipment upgrades.
- Developed preventive maintenance programs, reducing equipment failures and increasing overall reliability.
- Maintained open communication channels to verify prescribed operational levels for equipment and tasks.
- Organized and managed maintenance staff to fulfill requirements via scheduling and delegation.
- Managed plant projects from conception to completion, adhering to strict deadlines and budgets.
- Drafted preventive maintenance schedules around avoiding service disruptions and equipment breakdowns.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions.
- Designed custom tools or fixtures when required, enhancing worker safety and job efficiency.
- Served as point of contact during plant emergencies, overseeing disaster recovery and expediting restoration efforts.
- Evaluated new technology options for potential integration into existing processes, increasing efficiency while maintaining quality standards.
- Coordinated with outside contractors for specialized services, ensuring timely completion of tasks within budget constraints.
- Assisted in procurement strategies by providing input on vendor selection based on cost analysis and performance metrics.
- Streamlined workflow processes through effective communication with team members at all levels of the organization.
- Reduced downtime for maintenance through proactive inspection and scheduling of repairs.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by staying up to date with industry guidelines and integrating them into plant operations as needed.
- Improved plant layout design to maximize space utilization and increase overall productivity.
- Conducted regular safety audits, ensuring a safe working environment for all personnel.
- Resolved technical and quality issues by collaborating with customer, manufacturing, quality assurance, vendors and supplier personnel.
- Performed concurrent design and manufacturing engineering and other functions to reduce time required to bring product to market.
- Identified appropriate methodology to shorten cycle time and achieve target margins.
- Calculated overall production costs by evaluating material, labor and other expenditures.
- Provided recommendations for approval and delivered technical assistance for resolution.
- Mitigated supplier risk through investigation and sourcing of qualified suppliers and on-site evaluations of processes and capacities.
- Oversaw successful completion of multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance.
- Identified and resolved construction issues promptly to prevent delays.
Marketing Engineer
Eskom
01.1995 - 01.1998
- Gained experience working on pulp and paper, iron metal sector
- Energy management analysis and proposal to clients on how to save energy
Junior Engineer
Anglo American Platinum
01.1993 - 01.1994
- Gained experience in different shafts and metallurgical plants including the precious metal and the base metal plants
- Appointed as acting foreman for mechanical workshop, electrical workshop and the services workshop
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations during all phases of project implementation, resulting in zero incidents or accidents onsite.
- Reduced production costs by implementing cost-saving measures in materials procurement and manufacturing processes.
- Evaluated existing systems and processes to identify areas for improvement, leading to increased operational efficiency across projects.
- Collaborated with engineering team to determine project specifications.
- Assisted engineers with inspections of finished construction.
- Provided technical support to colleagues as needed, fostering a collaborative working environment that promoted knowledge sharing.
- Contributed to project completion ahead of schedule through effective time management and prioritization of tasks.
- Performed thorough quality checks for all deliverables, ensuring high-quality products were delivered to clients on time.
- Studied corrections from senior engineers to learn and grow professionally.
- Collaborated with team members to develop comprehensive project plans, ensuring successful outcomes and client satisfaction.
- Supported senior engineers in the development of complex designs, contributing to the advancement of project goals.
- Assisted in troubleshooting equipment issues, minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity levels.
- Improved design efficiency by streamlining processes and incorporating innovative engineering solutions.
- Streamlined project documentation, significantly reducing retrieval times for critical information.
- Engaged in continuous professional development to enhance skills and knowledge in engineering field.
- Organized and led project meetings, ensuring clear communication and alignment of project objectives.
- Enhanced team collaboration by implementing centralized communication platform.
Learner Official
Anglo American Platinum
01.1980 - 01.1986
- RPM Rustenburg Section as learner official mining
- Mining survey on underground workings
- RPM Rustenburg Section as learner official engineering
- Streamlined service processes for increased efficiency and improved customer experience.
- Reduced wait times with effective scheduling and resource management strategies.
- Actively participated in continuous learning opportunities, staying current on industry trends and best practices.
Education
Management Development Program (MDP) - Management
University of Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, South Africa01.2000
Diploma in Management - Management
Graduate Institute Of Management Technologies
Johannesburg, South Africa01.1996
Management Advance Program Certificate (MAP-25) - Management
Wits Business School
Johannesburg, South Africa01.1994
Government Certificate of Competency - Electrical Engineers Certificate of Competency (Mining)
Department of Minerals And Resources
Pretoria, South Africa01.1991
Higher National Diploma Engineering – HC (T4) - Electrical Engineering
Vaal Triangle Technikon
Vaal Triangle, South Africa01.1986
National Diploma Electrical Engineering – HC T3 - Electrical Engineering
Northern Transvaal Technikon
Pretoria, South Africa01.1984
T1 Mining Survey - Mining Survey
University of The Witwatersrand
Johannesburg, South Africa01.1982
Skills
- Safety management
- Project planning
- Environmental compliance
- Labor relations
- Regulatory reporting
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Workplace safety
- Safety procedures
- Health and safety regulations
- Risk assessment
- Hazardous waste management
Shortcoursesattended
- Project management for project teams (35 CPU points)
- Lilly Controllers
- Steel Wire Rope (Haggie Rand)
- Budgeting and Costing
- Programmable Logic Controllers
- Project Management
- Loss Control (STW)
- Business Writing Skills (Technical)
- Introduction to Accounting Theory and Reconciliation
- HT Cable Jointing
- Electric Motor Controls
- Basic Electronics (Modules 1-5)
- Basic Hydraulics
- Deutz Engines
- Counselling Communication Skills
- Deep Level Mining Seminar
- Computers (Lotus1-2-3, WordPerfect, dBase iv, Windows, Harvard Graphics)
Yearswithfirm
5 Years
Personal Information
- Date of Birth: 06/21/57
- Nationality: South African
Membershipinprofessionalsocieties
- Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), 2005, 200590040
- Association of Mine Resident Engineers of SA (AMRE SA), 1995, Past President
- Institute of Certificated Mechanical and Electrical Engineers of SA (ICMEESA), 2000, Past President
Timeline
Mine Manager
Elsewedy & Edison Africa
07.2023 - 10.2024
Senior Project Manager - Construction
Project EQ
11.2022 - 03.2023
Senior Project Manager (Owners Team)
Royal Bafokeng Platinum
05.2018 - 10.2022
Senior Project Manager (Owners Team)
Royal Bafokeng Platinum
11.2014 - 02.2018
Corporate Social Investment and New Business Development Executive
RSV
01.2012 - 11.2014
Project Manager
RSV
01.2006 - 01.2013
Engineering Manager
AngloGoldAshanti
01.2005 - 01.2006
Manager Tailings and Land Management (SA Region)
AngloGoldAshanti
01.2003 - 01.2005
Engineering Manager
AngloGoldAshanti
01.2002 - 01.2003
Shaft Engineer
AngloGoldAshanti
01.2000 - 01.2002
Plant Engineer / Construction Manager
AngloGoldAshanti
01.1998 - 01.2000
Marketing Engineer
Eskom
01.1995 - 01.1998
Junior Engineer
Anglo American Platinum
01.1993 - 01.1994
Learner Official
Anglo American Platinum
01.1980 - 01.1986
Management Development Program (MDP) - Management
University of Stellenbosch
Diploma in Management - Management
Graduate Institute Of Management Technologies
Management Advance Program Certificate (MAP-25) - Management
Wits Business School
Government Certificate of Competency - Electrical Engineers Certificate of Competency (Mining)
Department of Minerals And Resources
Higher National Diploma Engineering – HC (T4) - Electrical Engineering
Vaal Triangle Technikon
National Diploma Electrical Engineering – HC T3 - Electrical Engineering
Northern Transvaal Technikon
T1 Mining Survey - Mining Survey
University of The Witwatersrand
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