Full name(s) and surname:
Takalani Randima
Position:
Managing Director
What contribution do you see yourself making to the SAIMM and Council? :
I bring to the SAIMM Council a combination of executive leadership, deep operational mining expertise, and a strong commitment to sound governance and industry advancement. As Managing Director of UMS Shaft Sinkers, I contribute both strategic insight and execution discipline, enabling me to support the Council in its role of setting direction and providing effective oversight, while ensuring alignment with industry realities.
My established relationships across multiple mining houses developed through the construction projects and business development activities I manage across various mining operations and industry stakeholders through my AMMSA membership position me to mobilise partnerships, funding, and sponsorships including support for technical papers and SAIMM publications thereby strengthening knowledge dissemination while advancing student development, bursaries, and initiatives that build future industry leaders. In addition, my active engagement with universities enables me to strengthen industry academia collaboration, improve graduate readiness, and contribute to a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals.
I am passionate about developing future leaders and would actively support increased and sustained participation of young professionals within SAIMM by strengthening mentorship, engagement platforms, and leadership pathways. As a WiMSA member, I would also work to enhance the participation and representation of women in SAIMM structures and activities. I am equally committed to working collaboratively with fellow Council members and broader stakeholders to ensure collective, well-informed decision-making that advances the Institute’s strategic objectives.
Overall, I would combine governance discipline, industry connectivity, collaboration, and a focus on tangible outcomes to help ensure SAIMM continues to deliver meaningful value while advancing innovation, inclusivity, and long-term sustainability in the minerals sector.
Interactions/activities that you currently participate in within the SAIMM (if applicable):
As an active SAIMM member, I consistently participate in technical conferences and industry engagements, contributing to knowledge sharing and professional development within the sector. I also play a proactive role in encouraging my organisation to participate as a corporate partner at these conferences, thereby strengthening industry collaboration and support for SAIMM initiatives.
Additionally, I have actively contributed to the growth of the Institute by recommending and encouraging qualified professionals to join SAIMM membership, further enhancing the depth and diversity of its professional community
Qualifications:
Master of Business Administration - Gordon Institute of Business School
Masters in engineering project management -University of Pretoria.
Beng Mining Engineering -University of Pretoria
Mine Manager Certificate of Competency - Department of Mineral & Energy
Mine Overseer Certificate of Competency - Department of Mineral & Energy
Blasting and onsetter tickets
Brief career history:
I have built my career in the mining industry through progressive technical, operational, and executive leadership roles across leading mining and contracting organisations. I began as a Harmony Gold bursary student, which laid the foundation for my mining engineering career.
I started my professional journey at Aveng Mining (Grinaker-LTA) in 2008 as a Trainee Engineer, progressing through roles including Shift Boss, Mine Superintendent, Site Manager, and Contracts Manager, where I led major shaft sinking, engineering and underground development projects.
I then joined Redpath Mining South Africa, where I served as Senior Contracts Manager and later General Manager: Technical Development, contributing to major shaft sinking and development projects while driving operational improvement initiatives.
In 2017, I was appointed Section Manager (2.6.1) at Gold Fields (South Deep Mine), where I was responsible for critical underground services (backfill, secondary support, water and roadway management) and all contractor management for both Twin and South shafts.
In 2018, I joined the UMS Group (United Mining Services) as Manager: Mining Engineering, progressed to General Manager, and was subsequently appointed Managing Director of UMS Shaft Sinkers in 2021, a role I continue to hold.
Throughout my career, I have gained a strong track record in executing complex mining projects safely, on schedule, within budget, and to the required quality standards, while maintaining strong client relationships.
In addition to my executive role, I serve as Vice President of the University of Pretoria Mining Alumni (MASUP) and have been recognised as part of the Mining Elites of 2023, reflecting my contribution to leadership and excellence within the mining industry.
Links to active social media platform
www.linkedin.com/in/takalani-randima
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