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 School, Johannesburg, 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 Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
Ph.D. from Chemistry
07.2014 - 12.2018
University of Witwatersrand Johannesburg, Engineering
Master of Science from Enginnering
02.2010 - 12.2012
University of Cape Town, 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
Skills
Strategic Planning
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)
Similar Profiles
Keletso Maribe MaribeKeletso Maribe Maribe
Principal Health Coordinator/ VP for Health at Debeers Group: MidstreamPrincipal Health Coordinator/ VP for Health at Debeers Group: Midstream
Bonginkosi PN KuneneBonginkosi PN Kunene
Mining Engineer at Basil Read Mining (DeBeers Group Venetia Mine), Open Pit, Hard Rock, Surface MiningMining Engineer at Basil Read Mining (DeBeers Group Venetia Mine), Open Pit, Hard Rock, Surface Mining
Charles SeotsenengCharles Seotseneng
IM Analyst SAP MM & PM at Debswana Diamond Company (DeBeers Group)IM Analyst SAP MM & PM at Debswana Diamond Company (DeBeers Group)