JSE-listed, drilling solutions provider – Master Drilling – has announced the appointment of Louis Germishuys as Chief Operating Officer of its new Shaft Development division, and Chris O’Neill as Chief Operating Officer of Africa Operations, and as an Alternate Director.
From left to right: Chris O’Neill and Louis Germishuys.
Master Drilling CEO, Danie Pretorius said, “We are pleased to welcome both Germishuys and O’Neill to Master Drilling during this exciting period of growth in our organisation. Their respective experience and industry insights will be instrumental in driving our business growth strategies forward, while cementing our ability to adapt and respond to a rapidly changing operational environment.”
In addition to these new appointments, Master Drilling will further expand its expertise with the launch of the ground-breaking Blind Shaft Boring System (BSBS), an innovative solution to mechanising conventional drill and blast shaft sinking in hard rock. In keeping ahead of technological advancements, the new BSBS will be unveiled at this year’s Mining Indaba, from 8 – 11 February 2016 in Cape Town.
Germishuys’ appointment comes at a time when the company is exploring areas of refining and diversifying its work performance, particularly in the shaft development market. His strong track record in shaft sinking, mine development and construction will be invaluable as the organisation continues to drive innovation for clients in the mining, energy and civil industries.
With more than 25 years of experience in shaft sinking, mine development and construction, Germishuys will be bringing differentiated insights into the shaft development business. His role will encompass research and development of the shaft boring machine, business development in markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. He will also be responsible for management of operational performance for DRC, Mali as well as the Cullinan HRB Project.
“I welcome the opportunity to take on a position which reinforces my desire to be instrumental in leading and providing strategic direction in an organisation committed to providing innovative drilling solutions to a variety of markets. Moreover, I look forward to driving the long-term sustainability of the company’s Shaft Development business,” said Germishuys.
Optimistic about his appointment, O’Neill steps into his new role with vast experience as a Managing Director of a number of automotive and other industrial companies. In addition, he has gained invaluable experience through his work exposure in the European, United States and Asian markets.
“I am excited by Master Drilling’s aggressive strategy and I equally look forward to adding value to the strategic actions outlined to reinvigorate the firm’s growth,” says O’Neill.
Pretorius concluded, “The growing and ever-diversifying mining landscape is creating opportunities for companies to make gains in the innovative imperative. Master Drilling is in a good position to unlock the potential of such opportunities and further enhance our position to deliver improved solutions. We are confident that the appointment of both O’Neill and Germishuys will help sharpen our strategies and lead the execution of the next important phase of taking Master Drilling to new heights.
