FLSmidth has announced that Deon de Kock has been appointed as Vice President for Minerals, Sub-Sahara, effective 1 July 2016. In addition to assuming full regional responsibilities, de Kock will also assume the role of Country Head, South Africa, taking over from Charl Drury, who will remain as country CFO.
De Kock’s professional experience includes more than 20 years in mining and construction, working with growing business volumes, increasing profitability and large-scale operational improvement initiatives. His vast expertise within the mining industry and specific experience in South Africa will be a great advantage when looking at the current challenges in the sub-Saharan Africa market, according to the company.
Prior to joining FLSmidth, De Kock was Head of Engineering for Benicon Opencast Mining at Sentula Mining Limited. After only 10 months, he was appointed COO. His prior experience includes 12 years with Sandvik Mining and Construction, where he held several senior positions, including General Manager for Operations in South Africa.
He holds an MBA and a Mechanical Engineering degree. De Kock will reside in South Africa, operationally reporting to the SVP Global Operations in the Minerals business and in his Country role, he will report to the Group Country Responsible (GCR) for South Africa.
Charl Drury, who has been both Country Head and CFO South Africa, will stay on as country CFO and hand over his responsibilities as Country Head to de Kock.