Hi, I’m
Sanele Nyembe
Principal Scientist (Global Portfolio)
Ruimsig, Roodepoort,Gauteng
Summary
Accomplished leader with an MBA from Wits Business School and a PhD in Chemistry. Extensive experience in strategic management, innovation, and process optimization across advanced materials and analytical chemistry sectors. Proven ability to drive business growth, manage high-impact projects, and lead cross-functional teams. Seeking a top management position to leverage strategic planning, leadership, and innovation expertise.
Overview
12
years of professional experience
14
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Element Six, DeBeers Group
Principal Scientist
1 2023 - Current
Job overview
- Increased Revenue from New Products: Managed product, process, and technology transfers from the Group Innovation Centre (UK) to South Africa production.
- Led multiple customer-focused projects, enhancing process efficiencies and supporting innovation initiatives.
- Established a reputation for exceptional problem-solving abilities, applying creative approaches to address complex scientific challenges.
- Led a team to Scientist and Technicians: Provided strategic direction and project management to drive product and process improvements.
Mintek, Analytical Chemistry Division
Senior Scientist
01.2022 - 12.2022
Job overview
- Generated 10 million from a Mosaic project in 2022: Conducted method improvement and validation research.
- Implemented quality control measures that significantly reduced errors in experimental procedures and data collection.
- Collaborated with external partners to secure funding for critical research initiatives, ensuring financial support for key projects.
- Led cross-functional teams for successful completion of projects on time and within budget.
Mintek, Advanced Materials Division
Scientist
04.2013 - 12.2021
Job overview
- Conducted fundamental research in health, water, and sensor platforms
- Published 11 scientific journal papers and filed two intellectual property discoveries
- Identified and capitalized on technology development and commercialization opportunities.
- Established partnerships with academic institutions for joint research initiatives and resource sharing opportunities.
- Developed innovative research methodologies for improved data collection and analysis.
Element Six, DeBeers Group
Scientist Intern
02.2012 - 03.2013
Job overview
- Managed the manufacture and supply of new development parts to customers
- Led planning and execution of development initiatives.
Education
Wits Business SchoolJohannesburg, South Africa
MBA from Strategic Intelligence
02.2022 - Current
University Overview
- Management & Financial Analysis: Distinction (A)
- Financial and Investment Decisions: Distinction (A)
- Business Integration: Distinction (A)
- Strategic Finance: Distinction (A)
- Management Consulting Distinction (A)
- Industry and Competitor Analysis Distinction (A)
University of Witwatersrand JohannesburgJohannesburg, South Africa
Ph.D. from Chemistry
07.2014 - 12.2018
University of Witwatersrand JohannesburgEngineering
Master of Science from Enginnering
02.2010 - 12.2012
University of Cape TownCape Town
Bachelor of Science from Enginnering
02.2009 - 12.2009
University of Kwa-Zulu Natal
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Applied Chemistry
02.2006 - 04.2009
Skills
Strategic Planning
Innovation Management
Leadership Development
Process Optimization
Project Management
Financial Analysis
Data-Driven Decision-Making
Stakeholder Engagement
Technology Transfer
Change Management
Strong leadership abilities
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Public speaking abilities
Timeline
Wits Business School
MBA from Strategic Intelligence
02.2022 - Current
Senior Scientist
Mintek, Analytical Chemistry Division
01.2022 - 12.2022
University of Witwatersrand Johannesburg
Ph.D. from Chemistry
07.2014 - 12.2018
Scientist
Mintek, Advanced Materials Division
04.2013 - 12.2021
Scientist Intern
Element Six, DeBeers Group
02.2012 - 03.2013
University of Witwatersrand Johannesburg
Master of Science from Enginnering
02.2010 - 12.2012
University of Cape Town
Bachelor of Science from Enginnering
02.2009 - 12.2009
University of Kwa-Zulu Natal
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Applied Chemistry
02.2006 - 04.2009
Principal Scientist
Element Six, DeBeers Group
1 2023 - Current
Telephone
+27 11 812 9306, +27 73 597 5139 or +27 78 723 7639
Awards
- Mintek’s APEX Excellence Awards: 1st place for Best Young Researcher (2018)
- Mintek’s APEX Excellence Awards: 1st place for Most Technically Innovative Project (2018)
- Best PhD Oral Presentation at National Young Researchers Symposium (NYRS), Gauteng (2016)
- Golden Key Honour Society, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal (2008) and University of Witwatersrand (2012)