Emilio Rosa

Process Engineering Manager
Mosaic Fertilizantes do Brasil Ltda

Emílio graduated in 2012 with a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of São Paulo (USP) and later completed his postgraduate studies at the Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP). Since joining the company in 2012, Emílio Rosa has worked as a process engineer in sulfuric and phosphoric acid production, dicalcium phosphate, utilities, and water balance management until 2020. Currently, Emílio is working as a Process Engineering Manager with the Cajati and Uberaba teams, focusing on achieving best practices to increase safety, efficiency, quality, environmental performance and sustainability.

Frank Nikolic

Vice President, Base & Battery Metals
CRU

Frank Nikolic is VP of Base & Battery Metals at CRU. His team specializes in analysis and strategic advisory for the entire battery value chain from mining to end-use. Frank has over two decades in the mining industry in various leadership roles, including at Vale Base Metals, across strategic planning, market intelligence, metallurgy, digital transformation, and global commercial operations.

Umesh Chandra Bajpai

Vice President (Technical)
NEELAM AQUA AND SPECIALITY CHEM

Mr. Umesh Chandra Bajpai is a graduate Chemical Engineer and he completed B. Tech. (Chemical Engineering) in year 1984 with Gold Medal. He worked 40 years in IFFCO a biggest Fertilizer cooperative of Asia. He has worked as Executive Director in IFFCO Limited. He was heading the plant operations and achieved a high target of 6 million tons of NPK/DAP and 1 million ton of Urea production. In year 2024 he joined Neelam Aqua & Specialty Chem Ltd as Vice President (Technical). In Neelam Aqua & Specialty Chem. Ltd., he is actively involved in business development and new innovative projects of the company. He has a rich experience of Fertilizer production and large-scale plant operations.

Greg Becherer

Sr. Vice President
CG Thermal

Greg began his career as an Application Engineer with BW Rogers Co., a distributor of many lines of equipment for the CPE. He then moved The Carborundum Company in 1987, where he learned the application and design of graphite heat exchangers from the bottom up.

After the Division was sold to Carbone, Greg took on the job of Sr. VP, Sales and Marketing of the AstroCosmos Division, becoming an expert in the applications of reactive metal heat exchangers and process equipment, in addition to graphite and ceramics.Greg has been involved in almost every aspect of the graphite and ceramic corrosion resistant heat exchanger market, including design and application engineering, development of advanced design heat exchangers, and the full range of sales, marketing, and international business development activities.

With his extensive CPE experience, and a B.S. Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Greg is a recognized expert in corrosive heat transfer applications.Greg is a principal and charter member of CG Thermal LLC, and brings his considerable technical expertise and knowledge of the needs of the CPE to our customers.

Tobias Stefan

Regional Director EMEA
GroupeM7

Tobias Stefan started with GroupeM7 in 2021 as Regional Director for Europe, Middle-East and Asia for Metal7, with the main focus in iron ore pelletizing equipment. Since 2023 he serves as Group Vice President Sales responsible for the business units Metal7, Cast7 and Enduride.He has over 15 years of experience in the field of ore processing, holding various roles in R&D and Product Management, globally responsible for the technical marketing. Later he held various technical and business management positions in Outotec and MetsoOutotec, before joining Metal7. He holds a Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Technical University Darmstadt in Germany and EPF Lausanne, Switzerland. 

Jamie Donald

Sales & Marketing Manager
Scantech International Pty Ltd

Jamie Donald is Scantech’s Marketing and Sales Manager for North America.  Jamie graduated with honors from Queen’s University with a Bachelor of Applied Science and previously worked as Scantech’s senior most service engineer in North America. He has over 2 years field experience commissioning and optimizing Scantech’s specialized real time analysis equipment. Along with his colleagues, Scantech manages over 40 analyzers, many with unique measurement capabilities, currently located across 10 states and provinces.  Scantech’s analyzers have been utilized for over 40 years in numerous process optimization applications.

Heather McKay

R&D Manger for Fertilizer Coatings, Crop Nutrition
Arkema-Arrmaz

Heather McKay is an accomplished R&D leader with extensive coatings, emulsion, and surfactant science expertise. As the Crop Nutrition R&D Manager for Coatings at ArrMaz Products Inc., an Arkema Group Company, she drives innovation in fertilizer coatings, focusing on performance and sustainability. Previously, Heather led advancements OTC, Personal Care, and Cosmetics as Research and Development Manager at World Product Solutions. Heather brings significant experience in product development, platform leadership, and technical innovation across multiple industries

Kelly Strong

Vice President, Phosphates North America
The Mosaic Company

Kelly Strong is Vice President Phosphates, North America for Mosaic’s phosphate operations in Florida and Louisiana. Kelly has more than 30 years of underground and surface mining experience – which includes working internationally in gold, nickel, copper, zinc, phosphates, and potash operations. Prior to joining Mosaic, he was Vice President, Mining Operations at Nyrstar, Inc, a global multi-metals group. Before joining Nyrstar, he worked for Vale's nickel mining and metals division for more than 14 years – holding various management and leadership positions, including Vice President of Ontario and United Kingdom Operations. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mining engineering from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and is a registered Professional Engineer in the Province of Ontario. Over the years he’s been active on numerous industry committees and Board appointments.

Konstantin Pisarchuk

Board Member
NovoDzambul Phosphorus Plant

Konstantin Pisarchuk, CPA, CFA is a member of the Board of the NovoDzambul Phosphorus Plant (100ktpa yellow phosphorus producer) and a member of the Audit Committee of Kazphosphate (900 ktpa MAP producer) in Kazakhstan. University of Oregon alumni, he started his career with Big 4 accounting firms, then joined the industry, progressing to the Head of investments/M&A with international metals and mining groups Metinvest (Ukraine), ERG (Kazakhstan). He has also served as a CFO in a number of smaller businesses. At his current position in the Board, he is in charge of strategy development, supervising sales and financial functions.

Adam McGaughey

Sales Director
Apex Engineered Products Presenting For Strategic Partner Graphite India Limited

Adam has spent the past four years at Apex Engineered Products, specializing in sales and marketing. In his current role, he supplies equipment to both emerging and established markets, including Phosphoric Acid, Nitric Acid/Ammonium Nitrate, Chlor- Alkali, HF, Geothermal, Water Treatment, and Nuclear Technologies. Adam brings a decade of experience supplying equipment and solutions in the most corrosive environments of the chemical process industry.

Nicola Coslett

CEO Communities and Events
CRU

Nicola is Chief Executive Officer of CRU Events, which builds lifetime value for customers through its knowledge and networking events. Nicola has worked in the conference and publishing business for 26+ years, launching her career with IBC/informa, marketing oil and gas conferences. In 2000, Nicola moved to Metal Bulletin where she held senior positions including Head of Marketing and then Director of Events. Nicola was recognised for establishing a conference team and building a highly successful portfolio of international metals and mining events. Nicola joined CRU in 2008 and is currently part of the Management Executive team and Group Executive Board. Nicola has a BA Honours degree in Business and International Marketing from the University of Greenwich.

Ryan Johnston

Senior Manager - Strategic Initiatives
The Mosaic Company

Ryan Johnston has over 20 years of experience in the phosphate industry primarily focused in process engineering.  His areas of expertise include manufacturing and design of sulfuric acid plants, wet process phosphoric acid plants, ammonium phosphate granulation plants and treatment of phosphoric acid wastewater.  He received his professional engineering license from the State of Florida in 2014 and received the Engineer of the Year award from the Central Florida chapter of AIChE in 2023.  

Kirk Brecht

Executive Director, Mineral Policy
Resource Development Division, Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources

Kirk Brecht is Executive Director of the Mineral Policy Branch with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources. He was promoted to the role in 2020 after more than a decade of experience working primarily in mining sector policy and analysis for the Government of Saskatchewan. The Mineral Policy Branch is responsible for managing royalties, resource taxation and development policy for the province’s mining sector. Saskatchewan is consistently rated as one of the top jurisdictions globally for mining investment attractiveness and in 2023, the Ministry of Energy and Resources introduced a long-term strategy to support the development and diversification of the province’s critical mineral sector. To advance the goals of this strategy, the Mineral Policy Branch has led on the development and enhancement of numerous innovative programs and policy initiatives encouraging mineral exploration and development. Saskatchewan is a world-leading producer of potash and uranium, with occurrences in the province of 27 of the 34 critical minerals on Canada’s list. The province is emerging as a major producer of helium with projects also currently under construction for the future production of lithium, copper and zinc. Kirk holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics and a Master of Arts in Economics, both from the University of Saskatchewan.

Johannes Hofer

Head of Technology Catalysts & Analysis
P&P Industries AG

In his current position, Dr. Johannes Hofer is the Head of the Catalysis and Analytics group of P&P Industries AG, based in Austria. Innovating at the company since 2018, he has held several positions as a Project Manager, R&D Manager and Head of Research and Development. His work is focused on the development of new catalytic systems for the oxidation of SO2 in Sulphuric acid plant systems to hydrocarbon and ammonia removal in waste gas treatment. With international experience from working on plant systems of international clients he applies a scientific approach to solving problems at industrial scale. He received his doctorate in 2016 from Montanuniversitaet Leoben in materials science.

Justin Rackleff

Principal Analyst – Americas Fertilizer Market Lead
CRU

Justin is the Principal Analyst leading North American fertilizer analysis at CRU. With 11 years in the fertilizer industry, he brings extensive commercial experience, having spent a decade as a fertilizer trader at Eurochem North America and MacroSource (formerly Gavilon). Since joining CRU in April 2024, he has focused on short-, medium-, and long-term market analysis, leveraging his deep industry relationships and trading expertise to provide clear market insights. Justin is responsible for assessing North American fertilizer weekly prices and delivering strategic analysis to clients. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Oklahoma and is based in Kansas City.

Kevin Esmunaldo

Assistant Vice President Operation Plant
PT Petrokimia Gresik

Kevin Esmunaldo, ST, MM, CSCA, QRMA, is a  chemical engineering professional with over eight years of experience at PT Petrokimia Gresik. Currently serving as Assistant Vice President of NPK Phonska I and Research Product Development Operation Plant, he manages a production capacity of 450,000 metric tons NPK Fertilizer annually while spearheading innovative projects, including organic NPK certified fertilizer and liquid NPK fertilizer. Kevin holds a Master’s in Management and Bachelor degree in chemical engineering and certifications in supply chain and risk management. Recognized for his contributions, he has received various awards related to improvement quality and Productivity from company level to international level.

Adnane Mahmoud

Engineer
JESA

Adnane Mahmoud has more than ten (16) years of experience in conducting studies in modeling, process engineering, energy, sustainable development, in managing project teams and and training. He holds a public engineer's degree in process and energy engineering from the ENSMR (Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Mines de Rabat) Adnane is experienced on project management and consultancy iin sustainable development, environmental impact studies, "eco-construction", ISO 50001 certification, HQE certification of buildings and waste management according to international standards for on behalf of several Moroccan organizations "OCP, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of the Environment ...) s professional experience also includes many industrial and civil projects, mainly involving the thermodynamic, acoustic and quality modeling of the air in the industrial and building sectors(tertiary and residential). He knows the sectors related to clean energy, such as wind turbines, solar thermal and photovoltaics, as well as studies relating to the urban microclimate within the framework of green city projects. Currently, Adnane have been promoted to Environment and sustainability department head.

Marco Carrasco

Project Manager
Fosfatos Del Pacifico

With over 20 years of work experience in the mining, phosphate, and cement industry, He is a passionate and skilled project manager with a strong engineering, operations, and finance background. He has a master's degree in geology, operations, project management, and environmental engineering and a diploma in banking, corporate and finance. He is also a qualified person and a regular member of the Mining and Metallurgical Society of America (MMSA-USA). He currently works as a project manager at Fosfatos del Pacifico, where I manage phosphate engineering studies, feasibility studies, and project execution for various mineral processing projects.

John Carr

Global Technical Director – Alumina and Industrial Minerals
Syensqo

John Carr currently holds the position of Global Technical Director for the Alumina and Industrial Minerals business segment. John has been employed by Syensqo for 18 years with positions in research and innovation (R&I), business development and the commercial technical service development groups. John has been focused on the development and application of novel technology and reagents for the mining industry and specifically for the Industrial Minerals since 2010. John has extensive experience in the phosphate and phosphoric acid production processes. Application expertise includes froth flotation, defoamers, dewatering aids, antiscalants, flocculation and heavy metal removal from phosphoric acid.

Stephen Warwaruk

Sr. Reliability Engineer
The Mosaic Company

Stephen has 25 years of maintenance and reliability experience, including 18 years in potash mining. Stephen joined Mosaic Esterhazy in 2020 as Sr. Reliability Engineer to help develop asset strategies for K3 Mine and is currently Sr. Reliability Engineer with Mosaic’s Asset Strategy and Engineering team. Roles prior to joining Mosaic include Maintenance Engineer at SaskPower’s Poplar River Power Station, Reliability Engineer and Maintenance Planning Lead at Nutrien’s Vanscoy Potash facility. Stephen lives in Outlook, SK with his wife, Diana, and 5 of their 12 children. In August, Stephen and Diana were promoted from parents to grandparents.

Thomas Kießling

CEO
ERCOSPLAN Ingenieurgesellschaft Geotechnik und Bergbau mbH

Thomas Kießling is the managing director and chief operating officer of ERCOSPLAN Ingenieurgesellschaft Geotechnik und Bergbau mbH. He has a degree in mining engineering from the TU Bergakademie Freiberg. In addition, he attended the EMC – European Mining Course at the Helsinki University for Technology/Finland, Technical University Delft/Netherlands, Royal School of Mining, Imperial College London/UK, RWTH Aachen University/Germany from 2002 to 2003. He has been working as an engineer in the mining and processing industry for 20 years. His professional career began in 2004 when he was responsible for setting up a fluorite mine in Germany. The main fields of business were hard rock drifting, shaft remediation, narrow vein ore mining, backfill, ore processing and permitting. From 2009 – 2022, he worked for a German rock salt mine and former potash mine. As production manager and later as the managing director of technology and chief operating officer of the mine, he was responsible for an annual turnover of 35 million euros and 220 employees. The core businesses of the mine focused on rock salt mining, backfill, underground hazardous waste disposal, surface tailings remediation. In the course of his career, he was also involved in projects in Europe, Africa, Mexico and China as an expert for brownfield and greenfield projects. His experience includes salt and ore mining, mine planning, the backfilling of mines and underground waste deposits, production and investment planning, permitting and mine rescue. For 16 years, he was a member of mine rescue teams and more than 5 years of this time, he was active as a rescue section commander and head of mine rescue squads. He was active as an explosives engineer for 17 years and he is still a holder of the explosives license for underground blasting. He is experienced in the introduction of new technologies and in the selection and implementation of equipment in underground ore and evaporite mines. He holds a certificate of competence in accordance with the Explosives Act - valid for underground blasting - and has 17 years of active experience in planning and carrying out blasting. He is a Qualified Person registered with the Mining and Metallurgical Society of America since 2023. Certificate ID: 1581QP.

Eike Kaps

General Manager and Head of Process Engineering
ERCOSPLAN Ingenieurbüro Anlagentechnik GmbH

Dr Eike Kaps is the general manager and head of process engineering at ERCOSPLAN Ingenieurbüro Anlagentechnik GmbH. He obtained his degree in chemistry from Friedrich Schiller University Jena in 2003 and his doctorate from Ludwig-Maximilian Universität München in 2007. He has over 20 years of professional experience in the industrial processing of potash salts and natural brines. His professional career in the mineral salt industry began in 2004 with the investigation of possible Kalistrontite processing options. During his work at ERCOSPLAN, Dr Kaps has been involved in various projects regarding the beneficiation of mineral salts containing valuable minerals like Sylvite, Carnallite, Langbeinite, Kainite, Halite, etc. to various demanded industrial products by the use of e.g. hot/cold leaching, crystallization, evaporation, flotation, screening and milling processes. Besides his involvement in process design, process adaption, process calculations as well as process development by laboratory and pilot tests execution, Dr Kaps is also versant with mechanical plant engineering and plant design. He joined ERCOSPLAN in 2008 and has since then gained a lot of project experience in Europe, North and South America, Africa, Asia and Australia. Dr Kaps is a Qualified Person registered as a Fellow (FIMMM) at the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining since 2017. Membership Number: 479994

Sébastien Havelange

Senior Process Engineer
Prayon Technologies

Sébastien Havelange holds a Bachelor in Engineering and Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science of the University of Liège. After few years working in copper foil manufacturing, he joined Prayon Technologies as process engineer in 2017. Within Prayon Technologies, he developed skills in the phosphoric acid production processes and project management providing support for projects making use of a wide range of industrial processes. He has been involved or in charge, in several countries, of new phosphoric acid plants start-up, revamping and auditing, development of new processes from the laboratory to semi-industrial scales.

Max Kushner-Lenhoff

Head of Commercial
Mitra Chem

Max Kushner-Lenhoff is the Head of Commercial at Mitra Chem, a leading innovator of iron-based battery cathode materials that avoid nickel and cobalt supply challenges. Mitra Chem has developed IRA-compliant lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) at its Mountain View, California R&D center, using its proprietary technology with AI capabilities that shortens lab-to-market time by 90%.   Max’s role at Mitra includes developing a resilient IRA-complaint supply chain and establishing scale-up and commercial partnerships in the power, energy storage and EV markets. Max joined Mitra from Tesla, where he served as Group Manager for Cathode Supply Chain, determining the supply chains for several critical battery materials while contributing significantly to the ramp-up of battery factories on three continents during his five-year tenure. Max previously worked in strategic planning in the CEO’s Office of Dow Chemical. He holds an MBA with honors from Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and an MS in Inorganic Chemistry from Yale.

Frank Nikolic

Vice President, Base & Battery Metals
CRU

Frank Nikolic is VP of Base & Battery Metals at CRU. His team specializes in analysis and strategic advisory for the entire battery value chain from mining to end-use. Frank has over two decades in the mining industry in various leadership roles, including at Vale Base Metals, across strategic planning, market intelligence, metallurgy, digital transformation, and global commercial operations.

Eric Barrientos

Business Field Manager Fertilizers
KAO

Eric Barrientos is a Chemical Engineer from Barcelona University (Spain). With background in industrial processes and production, Eric joined Kao in 2010 in the Sales Department for Surfactant Applications. After 9 years in commercial position assuming technical sales in export for EMEA, ASIA and LATAM markets, he was assigned as Business Field Manager in Kao Chemicals developing Fertilizer and Mineral Flotation divisions since last 6 years in coordination with Kao Chemicals Headquarters Office in Japan.

Avdhesh Mathur

President & CEO
NAQ Global Companies

Avdhesh Mathur is a highly accomplished and results-oriented President and CEO with over three decades of experience leading diverse teams globally. He earned his engineering degree from the esteemed Rajasthan Technical University in India, where he discovered his passion for the specialty chemicals industry. After approximately 16 years in industrial water treatment in India, he founded NAQ GLOBAL in 2007, establishing its first plant in Brazil to produce Green Technology products for the fertilizer sector. Within a decade, NAQ expanded its manufacturing operations to multiple locations in Brazil, India, Morocco, and the United States.

A driving force behind sustainable technologies for fertilizer additives, Avdhesh leads NAQ's R&D department across various countries. Over the past two decades, he and his team have presented over 20 technical papers and lectures on topics such as modern fertilizer technology, the significance of sustainable fertilizers, and the application of green technology in fertilizer production, mining, and other processes.

Avdhesh is a distinguished member of several international organizations, including the International Fertilizer Association (IFA) in France, The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) in the USA, the Arab Fertilizer Association (AFA) in Egypt, the Fertilizer Association of India (FAI), ANDA in Brazil, and the International Fertilizer Society (IFS) in the UK. Today, his organization collaborates with over 200 fertilizer companies worldwide, helping them enhance processes, efficiency, quality, andprofitability while reducing carbon footprints and environmental impacts.

Michael Labbé

Executive Director
REMA TIP TOP

With nearly 40 years of experience in the industrial services sector, Michael Labbé is a seasoned business development leader committed to delivering innovative solutions that enhance customer satisfaction, loyalty, and long-term partnerships. He holds a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in marketing and excels in key account management, new business development, and sales operations. As Executive Director of Business Development at REMA TIP TOP AG, he drives strategic initiatives to expand market share, revenue, and customer engagement globally. Known for empowering teams and fostering innovation, he plays a pivotal role in positioning the company as a global industry leader.

Rachel Gould

Analyst Nitrogen Markets Fertilizers
CRU

Rachel joined CRU in September 2023 as a Nitrogen market analyst. She is responsible for Fertilizer Week’s global nitrates and sulphates coverage, including weekly price assessments and short-term forecasting. Prior to joining CRU she gained a MSc in Climate Change, Management and Finance as well as a BSc in Earth and Planetary Science, both from Imperial College London. 

Talita Arcaro

Vice President, Marketing & Managing Director, Latin America, Europe and Africa
Canpotex

Talita Arcaro was appointed Vice President, Marketing and Managing Director Latin America, Europe and Africa of Canpotex in January 2022 and is currently based out of the Brazil Office where she has also been serving as Managing Officer since the office opened in 2018. Talita joined Canpotex in October 207 serving as a Marketing Director, Brazil and in 2019 she took over the Latin America, Europe and Africa regions. Her experience, leadership, and vision have solidified and established Canpotex’s presence in the Latin American, European and African markets.

Talita holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with specialization in foreign trade from Universidade Mackenzie (Brazil), and MBA degree in Business Administration from Fundacao Getulio Vargas (Brazil).

Julien Rey

Strategy and Partnership Manager
Orano Mining

Julien Rey holds a PhD in Physico-Chemistry and Soft Matter from the Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique. In 2018, he joined the CIME, where he led the development of uranium extraction technology from bench scale to pre-industrialization scale. Currently, Julien works in Orano’s Strategy and Partnerships Division, focusing on creating an ecosystem tailored for the valorization of unconventional uranium resources, notably uranium extraction from phosphoric acid.

Theo Warner

Director of Engineering
J.R. Simplot Company

David Högnelid

Vice President Minerals
LKAB

David Högnelid is the Vice President of LKAB’s Mineral Division and oversees the global operations of LKAB Minerals Group. With over 13 years at LKAB, and a background in medtech and other industries, David utilises his cross-disciplinary expertise in strategic planning, business development, marketing, communications, and sustainability to develop customer, shareholder and societal value.

Justin Rackleff

Principal Analyst – Americas Fertilizer Market Lead
CRU

Justin is the Principal Analyst leading North American fertilizer analysis at CRU. With 11 years in the fertilizer industry, he brings extensive commercial experience, having spent a decade as a fertilizer trader at Eurochem North America and MacroSource (formerly Gavilon). Since joining CRU in April 2024, he has focused on short-, medium-, and long-term market analysis, leveraging his deep industry relationships and trading expertise to provide clear market insights. Justin is responsible for assessing North American fertilizer weekly prices and delivering strategic analysis to clients. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Oklahoma and is based in Kansas City.

Anthony Rizzo

Senior Analyst
CRU

Anthony Rizzo is the demand analyst for the Fertilizer Team, and also covers US markets. Anthony joined CRU in January 2023 after 5+ years in the financial sector. He holds a Master of Agribusiness from Texas A&M University and a Bachelor's degree in Finance from La Salle University.

Nancy Case

Vice President COE Operations
The Mosaic Company

Alexandre Gonçalves Andrade

Director of Innovation
Metal7 Inc.

Alexandre Gonçalves Andrade, a metallurgical engineer with over 18 years of expertise in iron ore pelletizing and manufacturing. He has built his career within the mining companies, including Samarco and Vale, before joining Groupe M7 in 2019 to lead innovative technological advancements. Alexandre holds a master’s degree in Sustainable Resources with a focus on decarbonization pathways. His work is dedicated to driving sustainability initiatives and contributing to the global green transition, supporting Groupe M7 and its business unit, in reducing environmental impacts in different industries.

Ava Blagoeva

Senior Conference Producer
CRU

Alan Lec’hvien

Operations Director
Phosphea

Alan Lec'hvien is the Operations Director of Phosphea, the animal nutrition subsidary of the Roullier Group. With over 6 years at Phosphea, and a background in the automotive industry, Alan is in charge of raw materials purchasing, global supply chain, manufacturing and quality. 

Humphrey Knight

Principal Analyst
CRU

Humphrey Knight leads CRU's phosphate and potash analysis in the Fertilizer Team. Mr Knight joined the company in August 2016 as the Fertilizer Team's Cost Analyst. In 2018, he became the company's potash analyst, subsequently adding phosphate analysis to his remit in 2022. Prior to joining CRU, he worked as a geologist at a major lead-zinc mine in the Republic of Ireland and at a gold exploration project in Mexico. He holds an MSci in Geology from Imperial College London and an MSc in Mining Geology from Camborne School of Mines (University of Exeter).

André Braga

Doctor of Science (DSc.)
BASF

Graduated in Chemical Engineering from the University of São Paulo (2013), with a master's degree (2015) and a PhD (2020) in Mineral Engineering from USP. He has experience in the field of mineral engineering research, with an emphasis on ore treatment, especially beneficiation by froth flotation. He works as the R&D Laboratory Leader for development and application at the Jacareí facilities, aiming to deliver high added-value products to our clients and partners in the mineral industry, while also being constantly challenged to innovate and develop new opportunities based on BASF's portfolio of chemical solutions.

Vivaswath Kumar

CEO and CO-Founder
Mitra Chem

Daniel Gleeson

CEO
Canadian Phosphate Ltd

Daniel Gleeson is a seasoned agribusiness manager with over 20 years of global experience, specializing in the technology transition within the agriculture sector. Throughout their career, they have led strategic initiatives that integrate innovative biotech solutions to enhance crop productivity, sustainability, and food security in such roles as Global Marketing Head for Syngenta Vegetable Seeds and Vice President APAC for the Limagrain Group. Their leadership spans across diverse markets, including North America, Europe, Australia and emerging regions, where they have successfully managed large-scale operations, partnerships, and R&D projects. With a deep understanding of regulatory landscapes and market trends, Mr Gleeson has been at the forefront of driving agricultural innovation through biotechnology, positioning companies for longterm growth and environmental impact.

Jason Newton

Chief Economist & Head of Market Research
Nutrien

Jason leads the team responsible for generating and disseminating agricultural market research and intelligence to Nutrien’s Senior Leadership and for forecasting crop input fundamentals and prices. He has regularly presented these views to Nutrien’s stakeholders, including customers, analysts, investors and industry groups since joining the Company in 2007. Jason holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan. He has been involved in agriculture throughout his life, having grown up on a farm and spent his career working throughout the crop input and grain marketing supply chain.

Hannes Storch

Vice President, Metals & Chemical Processing
Outotec GmbH & Co. KG

Before joining Outotec in 2002 as a process engineer in Sulfuric Acid Technologies, Dr. Storch studied at the Technical University of Clausthal and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Dr. Storch holds a doctor degree in Chemical Engineering. In the course of his work for Metso, Dr. Storch held various positions, including several years in Chile. Today, he is a member of the management team of Metso’s German subsidiary and heads the Metals and Chemical Processing business line. Dr. Storch is also a member of the board of the VDMA - AG Großanlagenbau (Large Plant Building Section).

Jon Godwin

Senior Process Engineer
Jon Godwin

Jon has been working in mineral processing for 14 years both in operations and engineering. Relevantexperience at Hatch includes projects from scoping to detailed engineering as well as site-based rolesfor in commodities including potash, metallurgical coal, and uranium. He has done plant start-up andramp-ups for mill expansions, plant optimization, conceptual plant design and process modelling, andcapital projects. Jon’s expertise includes troubleshooting and optimization of crushing and screening,dense media separation, flotation, hydrocyclones, slurry pumping systems, teeter-bed separators, anddryers. Jon also has experience with of various types of dryers, calciners, and off-gas treatmentsystems.

Josh Vines

Sales Manager
Duechting Pumps North America, LP

Josh Vines is the Sales Manager of Duechting Pumps North America, bringing over 8 years of experience in providing solutions to optimize the performance and reliability of critical centrifugal pumps and process equipment in highly corrosive and abrasive services. Serving a vast variety of industries across North America, Josh leverages a deep understanding of the unique challenges that plague maintenance and operations in Phosphate Fertilizer production associated with aggressive erosion-corrosion wear. Josh combines technical expertise with a results-driven approach utilizing Duechting's unique technologies to deliver customized solutions that enhance equipment longevity and minimize maintenance expenses for end users.

Alaoui Sosse Jihad

Engineer
JESA

Alaoui Sosse Jihad has more than ten (10) years of experience in conducting studies in modeling, process engineering, energy, sustainable development, in managing project teams and in research and training. He holds a state engineer's degree in energy engineering from the process engineering department of ENSMR as well as a doctoral thesis in process and energy modeling engineering from EMI. His experience includes project management and advice in the field of sustainable development, environmental impact studies, "eco-construction", ISO 50001 certification, HQE certification of buildings and waste management according to international standards for on behalf of several Moroccan organizations "OCP, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of the Environment ...) His professional experience also includes many industrial and civil projects, mainly involving the thermodynamic, acoustic and quality modeling of the air in the industrial and building sectors (tertiary and residential). He knows the sectors related to clean energy, such as wind turbines, solar thermal and photovoltaics, as well as studies relating to the urban microclimate within the framework of green city projects. Alaoui Sosse provides project management of interdisciplinary teams with project management skills and technical expertise in modeling, carbon footprint and geographic information systems.

Jason Kinoshita

Sr. Manager Asset Integrity – Potash
The Mosaic Company

Jason has 17 years of Potash Milling & Mining experience, based out of Mosaic’s Esterhazy, Saskatchewan facility in the following roles: Research Chemist – R&D Lab, Process Metallurgist – K1 Mill, Continuous Improvement Lead – Brine Inflow Operations, Maintenance Superintendent – K1 Mine, Production Superintendent – K1 Mine, Sr. Manager Operations – K1 Mine. In 2020 Jason moved into the Central Maintenance group as Sr. Manager Reliability – North America, and recently in 2024, was named Sr. Manager of Asset Integrity – Potash, bringing the Reliability, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Integrity groups under his responsibility. Jason lives near Esterhazy, SK with his wife and two children.

Morake Hlahane

Eriez-South Africa Flotation Sales Manager
Eriez

Morake Hlahane boasts nearly 20 years of hands-on experience in mineral processing operations and metallurgical projects, serving most recently as a metallurgical manager at Kropz Elandsfontein in South Africa. Morake is with Eriez-South Africa as Flotation Sales Manager poised to not only elevate Eriez' service quality but also to foster stronger, more enduring relationships with customers throughout South Africa .

Dr. Kyle Isaacson

Formulation Scientist
Phospholutions, Inc.

Dr. Kyle Isaacson is a research scientist at Phospholutions, Inc. He obtained his PhD in Bioengineering from the University of Utah and specializes in formulation chemistry, nanotechnology, and materials science. With the Phospholutions R&D team, he focuses on achieving sustainable agricultural innovation through improving the nutrient use efficiency of phosphorus. He is the lead developer of Phospholutions’ RhizoSorb technology, which controls the supply and release of phosphorus in soils and improves manufacturing of chemical fertilizers.

Jørgen Stenvold

Project Director
Norge Mineraler

Jørgen Stenvold is an economic geologist with 25 years’ experience from developing mining projects in Arctic Norway, Greenland, Ethiopia, Finland, Canada, USA and Brazil. He started his career as a geologist in the coal mines at Spitsbergen before he developed a portfolio of exploration projects for gold and nickel covering Spitsbergen and Northern Norway. In 2010 he joined Yara International to identify mining investments opportunities and later became VP Mining overseeing mining operations and projects globally. In 2023 he took on the task of developing a new mine in Norway as project director for Norge Mineraler.

Fauzia Mujid

Researcher
Ecolab

Fauzia Mujid received her Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Chicago in 2022, where she specialized in developing and optimizing processes for the growth of semiconducting nanomaterials. After that, she joined the Mining RD&E division at Ecolab, where her research focus has been developing chemical solutions to problems impacting phosphate beneficiation and phosphoric acid production, mainly related to scale control and foaming.

Alexander Baryshnikov

Technical Director
Lyncis

Alexander Baryshnikov holds a doctorate degree in Technical Science. He has more than 20 years of experience in optical, analytical instruments, and software, as well as their implementation for process control in different industries.Currently, he is the Technical Director at Lyncis company. He is responsible for developing technology and manufacturing of laser-based (LIBS) online elemental and mineral analyzers and their integration into plant control systems for optimal mining, beneficiation and production of phosphate and potash fertilizer and other industrial minerals

Chris Reynolds

Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer
Nutrien

Prior to his appointment as CCO, Chris headed Nutrien's Potash business unit and for several years previously headed the company's Sales organization as SVP Sales. Chris has been with the company for over 20 years, earning extensive experience across Nutrien’s Potash, Nitrogen, and Phosphate business units, and has over 25 years of experience in the global fertilizer industry. Since joining Nutrien in 2003 as Manager International Sales, Chris has held roles of increasing responsibility, covering Domestic & International Fertilizer and Industrial Product Sales, as well as Supply Chain excellence. Chris is a former Vice Chairperson for the International Fertilizer Association's (IFA) Market Intelligence Committee and former Chairperson of The Fertilizer Institute's (TFI) Nutrients for Life Foundation, an industry organization promoting plan nutrient education. Chris currently serves on the Board of Directors for Canpotex Limited and is Chairperson for the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre, Plant Possibility Capital Campaign. Prior to joining Nutrien, Chris worked for seven years in Sydney for Agrow Australia marketing products in Australia on behalf of various international agricultural suppliers. Chris received his Bachelor of Agricultural Economics in 1995 from the University of New England in New South Wales and a Masters in Business Management in 2002 from the Macquarie Graduate School of Management in Sydney.

Wissal El Haissoufi

Postdoc researcher
Mohammed VI Polytechnic University

Dr. Wissal EL HAISSOUFI earned her Ph.D. in Plant-Microorganism Interactions from Mohammed VI Polytechnic University and Cadi Ayyad University. She also holds a Master's degree in Management and Development of Phytoresources from Cadi Ayyad University. Currently, she is a Postdoc researcher at UM6P, focusing on enhancing the efficiency of rock phosphate to improve phosphorus uptake in plants. Her work includes the development of bioformulations combining rock phosphate with phosphate-solubilizing bacteria to create sustainable biofertilizers. She investigates the synergistic interactions between microbial consortia and plant roots, aiming to optimize nutrient solubilization and uptake under various environmental conditions. Her research interests also extend to exploring root functional traits in response to microbial inoculation, leveraging natural resources to boost phosphorus acquisition efficiency from rock phosphate.

Ronald Davis

Senior Staff Scientist
Nalco Water, an Ecolab Company

Ron Davis is a Senior Staff Scientist at Nalco Water, the global leader in water, hygiene and energy technologies and services that protect people and vital resources. 

Ron joined Nalco Research in 1990 and during his career he has worked in a wide range of research areas in a variety of mining industry segments including mineral scale control, ferrous metal corrosion control, reagent dosage and process automation, and contaminant removal.  Ron received his B.S. in Chemistry from St. Ambrose College in 1983 and his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Iowa State University in 1989.  Ron is an inventor on more than 15 patents.

Lawrence Berthelet

Vice President Operations Potash
The Mosaic Company

Lawrence Berthelet brings over 25 years of mining and operational leadership experience to The Mosaic Company. He began by holding roles leading operations and capital projects with global mining, manufacturing, and engineering firms, including Canada, Germany, and Russia. Lawrence was responsible for Mosaic’s K3 capital project from 2014 to 2020. The project included sinking Saskatchewan’s first new production shaft in over 50 years and overseeing underground development and surface infrastructure. Throughout his extensive global mining career, Lawrence has always called Esterhazy, Saskatchewan home. Coming from a generational potash mining family, Lawrence is proud to be back leading Mosaic’s potash operations in Saskatchewan, including three potash facilities and nearly 2,000 employees. Lawrence is an alumnus of the University of Saskatchewan, earning his MBA and bachelor’s in chemical engineering from the institution. 

Harshdeep Singh

President & Chief Commercial Officer
PPL - Paradeep Phosphates Limited

Mr. Harshdeep Singh hold a Master’s degree in International business from Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) and a Bachelor of Engineering (BE Chemical Engg.) degree from the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela. Prior to joining PPL, he was associated with Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) and Tata Chemicals. He has extensive experience in the Agribusiness and FMCG sector, specifically in brand management, commercial operations (supply chain, procurement, etc.), channel and retail sales operations & working in cross cultural teams across India, US, Kenya & UK. He has in depth & strategic understanding of Agribusiness & Fertilizer value chain. He is a Council member of the World Agriculture Forum (WAF). Currently responsible for Agribusiness-Fertilizer commercial operations for PPL (Paradeep Phosphates Ltd) on of the India’s largest phosphate manufacturing company in private sector in India as President & Chief Commercial Officer

Mindaugas Dailide

Head of Sales
Lyncis

Mindaugas Dailide holds a doctor degree in Chemistry from Vilnius University. He has 20 years of experience in optical, analytical instruments and software. Currently, he is the Head of Sales at Lyncis company responsible for the distribution of online elemental analyzers based on LIBS technology (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) dedicated to fertilizer and other mineral industries.

Jacob Jin

CEO
Austin Elements Inc

Dr. Jacob Jin is the Founder and CEO of AEI. He holds a Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering and has extensive experience in the oil and gas production industry. Previously, he served as a key board member for a company focused on biologically enhanced oil recovery, which successfully went public. AEI was founded in late 2021 and has since developed and patented several technologies for LIB recycling. Under Dr. Jin's leadership, the team has grown from 8 to 21 members over the past three years and recently closed Series A funding to support technology commercialization.

Abdelati Tantaoui

Head of Animal nutrition business at the Strategic Businss Unit Speciality Products and Solutions (SBU SPS)
OCP S.A- SBU SPS

Mr Tantaoui is a graduate of a management school specializing in finance. He holds an Executive MBA from Columbia University in New York and UM6P University in Morocco. He has worked for 13 years at Procter & Gamble in various roles and different regions. Six years ago, he joined OCP, where he initially focused on water-soluble fertilizers before taking on the role of managing the animal nutrition business.

Rajesh Raitani

Senior Marketing Manager
Nalco Water - An Ecolab Company

Rajesh Raitani is a Senior Marketing Manager (Segment Manager) in Global Mining Division at Nalco Water – an Ecolab Company and is currently responsible creating and implementing business growth strategies for the fertilizer segment (phosphate and potash). His areas of expertise include product development & implementation, manufacturing & operations, process improvements and marketing derived from his knowledge on surface chemistry, mineral processing and application of anti-scalants, flotation reagents, solid-liquid separation and defoamers. In his service tenure exceeding 20 years, Rajesh has contributed to mining and metals, chemicals, and building materials industries through his work at various organizations like USG Corporation, Solvay, and NMDC Limited in research, technology, operations and management functions. Rajesh holds a Bachelor of Technology in Mining Engineering (IIT-ISM Dhanbad, India), a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering (University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA) and a Global Master of Business Administration (University of Durham, Durham, UK). He is also a certified First Class Mine Manager under the Indian Mines Act, 1952, has several publications and presentations in many reputed mining, tunneling and processing journals and symposia and a couple of patents.

Hannes Storch

Vice President, Metals and Chemical Processing
Metso

Before joining Outotec in 2002 as a process engineer in Sulfuric Acid Technologies, Hannes Storch studied at the Technical University of Clausthal and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Dr. Storch holds a doctor degree in Chemical Engineering. In the course of his work for Metso Outotec, he held various positions, including several years in Chile. Today, he is on the management board of Metso Outotec's German subsidiary and heads the Metals and Chemical Processing business line. He is also a member of the board of the VDMA - AG Großanlagenbau (Large Plant Building Section).

Maria Gamboa

Phosphate Analyst
CRU

Maria is a market analyst at CRU. She primarily works as editor of the Phosphate Rock Market Outlook, but supports other phosphate related publications such as the Phosphate Fertilizers and Specialty Phosphates Market Outlook. Though she is based in our London office, she is originally from Costa Rica. Maria holds a master’s in development economics from the University of Sussex, and a bachelor’s in Economics from the University of East Anglia.

Simon Inglethorpe

Editor
CRU

Simon has been editor of Fertilizer International magazine since 2015, having joined BCInsight Ltd from Haymarket Media Group, where he was business editor at The ENDS Report, the UK’s leading publication for environmental professionals. A frequent participant on the conference circuit, he regularly chairs sessions at leading international events for CRU, the International Fertilizer Association (IFA) and others. A geology graduate, Simon previously enjoyed a successful scientific career with the British Geological Survey, working extensively in Africa, Asia, Central America, Europe and the Middle East. He joined CRU in January this year and currently serves on the council of the International Fertiliser Society (IFS).”

Collin Bartlett

Director – Business Development, Metals & Chemical Processing
Metso Canada Inc.

• Graduated from the University of Manchester with an honors degree in Mechanical Engineering • Held various technical and sales roles during his ten years at Davy McKee associated with their global activities in the Iron & Steel Division • Joined Lurgi Metallurgie and has been involved in many sales/business development roles for the company over the past 27 years • Collin has resided in Canada for the past 20 years, where he enjoys an active outdoor life with his German wife, Conny and their 19 year old Canadian son, George.

James Byrd

Senior Manager, Engineering Technology
JESA Technologies

James is a seasoned professional with over 27 years of extensive experience in the fertilizer industry. Currently serving as the head of the Process Department at JESA's Lakeland Office, he plays a pivotal role in overseeing projects related to phosphoric acid technology and managing fertilizer technologies for the company.His expertise spans a wide spectrum of activities within the fertilizer industry. James excels in leading both greenfield projects, which involve the construction of entirely new facilities, and optimizing existing plants to enhance their efficiency and productivity through processes known as de-bottlenecking.

Guoxin Wang

Global Director, Mining Technologies
Arkema-ArrMaz

Guoxin Wang, “GW” is Sr. Director for Global Mining Chemical Technologies at Arkema/ArrMaz. Dr. Wang is responsible for executing the prioritization of the mining chemical innovation and technical service portfolios. He has over 38 years’ experience in the field of Mineral Processing, including over 24 years over phosphate flotation and defoamer application with worldwide ore bodies.

Jan Tytgat

Process Engineering Manager
De Smet Agro

Mr. Jan Tytgat is a chemical industrial engineer with 35 years of experience in process engineering, technical audits and commissioning activities mainly in the Phosphoric Acid field. He was involved in the design and start-up of various new and revamped dihydrate phosphoric acid plants and acidic cooling towers. He started in 1989, with SNC-Lavalin, fertilizers division in Brussels as a process engineer and since 2020, he works as Process Engineering Manager with De Smet Agro in Belgium.

Jens-Michael Bergmann

Segment Manager Industrial Minerals
TOMRA Sorting GmbH

Jens-Michael Bergmann is a specialist in sensor-based machine sorting and has been for more than 16 years. Mr Bergmann’s practical background created the necessary experience to even offer consultancy around sensor-based sorting technologies to his current international clients. After graduating with a master’s degree in Mining engineering, he was plant and operations manager of several mines and quarries, all for one German company. Here he learned the challenges of the mining and mineral processing business hands-on. During his university time, he worked in underground coal mines and oil drilling rigs around Europe.

Timothy Cotton

CEO
Novaphos

Timothy Cotton is the CEO of Novaphos Inc. He has been active in the fertilizer industry for over 30 years, including with Agrifos Fertilizer, Gulf Coast Ammonia, Baobab Mining and Chemicals. Previously he was an investment banker focused on leveraged transactions. He also serves on numbers Boards of Directors and is a member of PAPSAC at the Harvard Kennedy School. He is a graduate of Yale University.

Ernesto Lima

COO & Director
Bifox LLC

Ernesto Lima is a professional civil engineer with 26 years of experience in the mining industry. Dr. Lima graduated with a B.ASc. degree in Civil Engineering, holds an MBA degree and a PhD in Management. He, among others, developed the Las Cristinas gold mine project in Venezuela, the Pirquitas silver project in Argentina, Tucano gold project in Brazil, was General Manager of Business Development for Luna Gold, COO of Valor Resources, and more recently Director Project Development of Endeavour Silver. Dr. Lima's expertise includes leading all stages of project development, including conceptual and detailed operational and economic studies, mine engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning. His strengths include project evaluation, safety performance, strategic analysis, team building and business.

Danny Luu

Process Engineer
Derrick Corporation

Danny Luu is a Process Engineer at Derrick Corporation with a background in Chemical Engineering, specialized in process systems. His expertise includes being the technical expert in fines separation technologies, especially in fines screening for both wet and dry applications. Process knowledge involving fine screening applications in industrial minerals sector including fertilizers.

Ian Keith Hancock

Vice President Sales and Operations
Bradley Pulverizer

Ian has 35 years’ experience in Engineering and is registered as an IEng Engineer in a variety of disciplines including mechanical, electrical and instrumentation and is a fellow of the IMechE and member of the IET.

Chair of the IMechE Bulk material handling committee and IMechE Process industries board.

He now works for Bradley Pulverizer as Vice President sales and operations, managing projects from quote to commissioning as well as managing upgrades and modernisation of existing plants. Specialising in fine powders production and size classification for a wide range of industries from power generation, steel manufacturing and Fertilizer as well as the Broadfield acidulation units for SSP and other acidic salts.

Brian Ostroff

President
Arianne Phosphate

Brian Ostroff is a graduate of the University of Toronto (1986) having joined RBC Dominion Securities in 1987. In 1999 Mr. Ostroff joined M&A advisory firm Goodrich Capital where he was the Canadian managing partner overseeing mandates across several industries with a focus on mining. In 2004, Mr. Ostroff moved over to the trading side of the capital market’s business as a proprietary trader with a large Canadian bank. Mr. Ostroff joined Windermere Capital in 2009 until 2022, serving as a Managing Director; his area of focus was the junior and mid-tier mining sector. Mr. Ostroff joined the Board of Arianne Phosphate in 2014 and subsequently joined the Management team in 2016.

Karl Wyant

Director of Agronomy
Nutrien

Dr. Karl Wyant currently serves as the Director of Agronomy at Nutrien. In this position, Dr. Wyant contributes proven agronomic leadership in growing the Nutrien commodity and premium fertilizer product lines and promotes advanced sustainability initiatives. Before working at Nutrien, Dr. Wyant served as the Vice President of Ag Science for Heliae Agriculture (2019-2022) and as an agronomist for Helena Agri-Enterprises in California and Arizona (2014-2019). Dr. Wyant earned his advanced degrees at Arizona State University (PhD - 2014) and Colorado State University (MS - 2008). Dr. Wyant is a Certified Crop Advisor and Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg) and has his CA and AZ Pest Control Advisor licenses. Karl and his family reside in Tempe, AZ.

Joe Garofoli

CEO
Roc Global

Joe Garofoli is Founder and CEO of Roe Global, a NYC-headquartered financial advisory business specialized in the Mining and Clean Energy sectors. Joe and his team have developed expertise in critical, agricultural and specialty minerals including in-depth experience financing phosphate and potash projects. Roe Global has closed transactions across multiple jurisdictions, providing M&A, strategic equity and debt advisory services. Before founding the firm in 2011 , Joe led KBC Financial Products derivatives businesses after managing D.E. Shaw & Co.'s global equity-linked securities business in New York. Prior, he was President of Cresvale International. Joe serves on the board of Astrea Farnihas e Olios, a Brazilian agricultural rendering business.

Andy Jung

Vice President, Market and Strategic Analysis
The Mosaic Company

Andy Jung is Vice President of Market and Strategic Analysis at The Mosaic Company.  He provides analysis supporting the company’s short-term operating decisions, as well as evaluation of strategic initiatives and long-term growth opportunities.  He is also a member of Mosaic’s commercial leadership team.

Chris Tziolis

Managing Director
Verdant Minerals Ltd

Chris Tziolis is the Managing Director of Verdant Minerals (formerly Run Jungle Resources). Mr Tziolis joined the company in October 2012 as the Director of Development Projects and was appointed to the Board as an Executive Director in June 2013 and Managing Director on 1 July 2014. Prior to this he was a Rio Tinto executive fulfilling a number of roles including the Chief Development Officer of Energy Resources of Australia (ERA) and the Manager Business Development and Rail and Port Infrastructure at Rio Tinto Coal Australia. Prior to joining Rio Tinto in 2006 Mr Tziolis was a consultant with McKinsey & Co where he worked predominantly on corporate strategy and operational performance improvement projects for global mining companies. He began his career as an Officer in the Royal Australian Navy where he specialised as Navigation and Warfare Officer. Mr Tziolis is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has a Bachelor of Science from the University of NSW, a Masters in International Relations from Deakin University and a Master of Business Administration from the Australian Graduate School of Management.

Lucas Moore

Vice President of R&D
Colonial Chemical, Inc.

As Colonial Chemical’s VP of R&D, Lucas Moore is responsible for executing the company’s global innovation and technical service portfolio. He is primarily focused on the development and application of specialty surfactants for oil and mining, personal care, metalworking fluids, home and car care, and others. Lucas joined Colonial Chemical in April of 2022. Lucas has more than 15 years of experience in the specialty surfactants industry with positions at Arkema-ArrMaz, Kemira, and Ciba Specialty Chemicals. He is the author and co-author of more than 75 publications and is the co-inventor of more than 25 patent applications.

Kevin De Bois

Process Manager
Prayon Technologies

I am a process engineer with 16 years of experience in chemical plant design, commissioning, and auditing. My expertise lies in developing processes from the laboratory scale to full industrial implementation, tackling the challenges that come with scaling up.Throughout my career, I have been involved in designing efficient systems, ensuring smooth plant startups, and conducting rigorous audits to enhance existing processes. I am driven by technical challenges and problem-solving, implementing innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of each project.My approach is results-oriented. As I often say, "Few words, many results" — I prefer to let my achievements speak for themselves.

Ben Lucas

General Manager
Rapid Building Systems

Ben Lucas joined Rapid Building Systems in 2012 and was appointed to the newly created position of Company General Manager.  

Since that time, Ben was involved in the delivery of international projects for RAPIDWALL and RAPIDFLOW FLUID BED CALCINER plants which were established in ChongQing, China and King Abdulla City, Saudi Arabia.

Throughout this time Ben also oversaw the completion of the international process for the Rapidwall technology to be granted eligibility for UNFCCC Certified Emission Reduction Credits (CERS – Carbon Credits). The first building material in the world to be granted such status.

Ben is also the Director of RFC Plaster, the Australian based Plaster Manufacturing division of Rapid Building Systems.  Under his leadership RFC Plaster, has been restructured towards improved manufacturing efficiencies and growth in market share across all customer segments. Under his leadership RFC Plaster began the first international exports of RFC Plaster Underground mining plasters.

Ben has developed, a Technology Network for the Rapid Building Systems; Business units and Technologies/Products, which has seen teams develop key hubs within Indian, China, UK, Europe and Australia who collaborate to further enhance R&D capabilities of Rapid Building Systems for its clients and products.

Prior to joining Rapid Building Systems Ben held national roles within Technology sector and senior Corporate Affairs positions within Australia.