Leanne Holmes

The global nature of mining operations was a significant draw for me. The industry offers unique opportunities to travel, engage with people from diverse cultures, and gain a deeper understanding of how different communities and economies are interconnected.

I was also drawn to the challenges and opportunities within the mining sector. It’s an industry that requires innovative approaches to workforce management, particularly in remote and demanding environments. Being able to contribute my HR expertise to address these unique challenges—such as improving employee engagement, supporting workforce development, and fostering inclusive workplaces—excites me and motivates me to make a meaningful impact.

I hold a degree in HR Management and a professional certification from the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD). My HR career began in the aerospace and defence sector with Esterline, an American corporation in the UK. There, I gained practical HR experience, managing projects like the HR integration of a new Belgian acquisition and overseeing restructuring exercises affecting 400+ employees, including a UK site closure.

In 2016, I relocated to Vancouver, Canada, joining Eldorado Gold Corporation. I initially managed their global mobility function for 20+ expatriates in Greece and Turkey and was later promoted to oversee HR for 55+ corporate employees in Vancouver and Amsterdam. I partnered with global teams to transform the company culture through employee surveys and workshops and also set up an office in Serbia.

In 2020, I returned to the UK to join Central Asia Metals plc (CAML) in London, tasked with establishing their first-ever HR function. Over the last four years, I’ve built HR and international relocation structures and introduced policies across the employee lifecycle.

Key achievements include forming a training team to futureproof the workforce, managing executive appointments, supporting board committees, and partnerships with local senior schools in order to secure future talent.

As cliché as it might sound, my passion truly lies with the people. Being in HR allows me to play a pivotal role in creating opportunities for individuals to grow and succeed. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone seize an opportunity, overcome challenges, and excel in their career. Witnessing that transformation and knowing I contributed to their journey is deeply fulfilling.

I’m also passionate about problem-solving and finding solutions that balance the needs of both the individual and the company. The mining industry often presents unique challenges—whether it’s addressing remote working conditions, fostering inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated field, or ensuring alignment between personal aspirations and organisational goals. Navigating these complexities and crafting win-win solutions is incredibly satisfying.

Ultimately, I find joy in building environments where people feel valued and empowered, and where their success aligns with the company’s growth. It’s about fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration, which I believe is the cornerstone of sustainable success in this industry.

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in a Traditionally Male-Dominated Industry

A significant challenge has been driving diversity and inclusion within a traditionally male-dominated industry. It’s not just about hiring more diverse candidates but creating a culture where everyone feels valued and has equal opportunities to succeed. I’ve focused on implementing targeted recruitment initiatives, mentorship programmes for women in mining and numerous improvements in the working environment. While progress takes time, it’s fulfilling to see more diverse voices contributing to the industry’s success.

I’ve been very fortunate to work with and alongside exceptional management teams throughout my career. These experiences have provided me with invaluable opportunities to learn from others, share knowledge, and grow both personally and professionally.

Beyond immediate team interactions, I’ve also benefitted from informal mentorships and support structures within the workplace. Whether it’s a colleague sharing insights from their own experiences, or a senior leader offering guidance during a challenging time, these moments of support have been instrumental in shaping my confidence and decision-making abilities.

Ultimately, the opportunity to learn from others while working together to make a difference is what keeps me inspired and motivated in my role. It reinforces the idea that success in any leadership position is not achieved alone but through the collective effort and wisdom of those around you.

Even if you’re just starting your career, never underestimate the importance of networking. The mining industry is surprisingly interconnected, and building genuine relationships early on can open doors you may not have even considered. Networking isn’t just about finding opportunities—it’s about learning from others, sharing experiences, and creating a support system that can guide you throughout your career.

I also wish I had understood the value of confidence in my younger years. Don’t be afraid to voice your ideas or take on challenges that push you out of your comfort zone. Every opportunity to learn and grow will contribute to your success in the long run.

Finally, remember that building a career takes time, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out at 25. Be patient with yourself, stay curious, and always be open to new experiences—you never know where they might lead.

I firmly believe that the presence of women in significant management, operational, business, and support roles positively influences a company’s ultimate success. Diversity in leadership and across teams brings a variety of perspectives and experiences to the table.

When people from different backgrounds come together, they challenge each other’s assumptions, consider alternative solutions, and ultimately arrive at decisions that are more informed and well-rounded. In the mining industry specifically, diversity helps address complex challenges, such as safety, sustainability, and community engagement, by bringing a broader range of insights and ideas.

Moreover, having women in key roles signals an inclusive culture, which not only attracts top talent but also improves employee morale and engagement. When employees see that their company recognises and supports diversity, they are more likely to feel valued and contribute their best work.

In my experience, companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion are better positioned for long-term success, both in terms of their operational outcomes, their reputation within the industry and broader community.

As Head of People in the mining industry, my goal is to further transform workplace culture and harness innovative technologies to reshape HR practices. By leveraging automation and digital tools, I aim to enhance both organisational efficiency and the employee experience. My vision is to create a people-focused, diverse and future-ready workforce that drives business success and establishes the mining sector as a leader in talent management and workplace innovation.

I’m passionate about traveling and experiencing different cultures. It’s fascinating to see how people around the world live, work, and celebrate their traditions.

Spending quality time with family and friends is something I deeply value. Additionally, I enjoy attending live music events, discovering new and great restaurants and bars in London and listening to various podcasts on topics such as leadership, wellness and current affairs.