
25/04/2025
Ben Magara appointed CEO of EXXARO 500 words
Ben Magara has recently been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Exxaro Resources, a leading South African mining company known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the mining sector. His appointment marks a significant milestone in his career, as he steps into a role that positions him at the helm of one of Africa's largest coal and mineral companies.
Background and Experience
Before joining Exxaro, Ben Magara held various leadership roles in prominent organizations within the mining and resources sectors. His career began in engineering, where he gained valuable technical expertise that laid the foundation for his future leadership roles. Magara's extensive experience spans multiple facets of the mining industry, including operations, project management, and strategic planning.
Ben is a qualified Mining Engineer and highly regarded mining veteran with over 35 years’ industry experience in both soft and hard rock mining at underground and open pit operations. He is renowned for driving operational excellence and providing strategic leadership at multiple large mining operations from his early days at Anglo American Coal and most recently, and notably, the stabilisation, restructuring, and turnaround of Lonmin Plc and its subsequent disposal to Sibanye Stillwater, creating the world’s largest PGM producer.
His previous position as the CEO of a major mining company provided him with a wealth of knowledge regarding the complexities and challenges of the industry, particularly in the context of evolving global standards for sustainability and corporate responsibility. Throughout his career, Magara has demonstrated a strong commitment to transforming organizations and driving them toward operational excellence while maintaining a focus on environmental and social governance.
Vision for Exxaro
As the new CEO of Exxaro, Magara brings a forward-thinking vision that aligns with the company's goals of sustainability and innovation. He has expressed his commitment to enhancing the company’s operational efficiency while prioritizing initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and community engagement. Under his leadership, Exxaro aims to continue its journey toward becoming a leader in the sustainable mining sector.
Magara has emphasized the importance of integrating advanced technologies into mining operations to improve productivity and reduce the environmental impact. He advocates for a clear strategy that embraces digital transformation, which includes the use of data analytics, automation, and renewable energy sources. This approach not only positions Exxaro as a leader in technological innovation but also aligns with global trends toward greener practices in the mining industry.
Commitment to Stakeholders
Ben Magara is known for his collaborative leadership style, which emphasizes stakeholder engagement. He understands that the success of Exxaro is intricately linked to the well-being of its employees, communities, and investors. As CEO, he plans to foster a culture of transparency and inclusivity, ensuring that all stakeholders have a voice in the company’s operations and strategic direction.
His commitment to community development is particularly noteworthy. Magara believes that mining companies have a responsibility to contribute positively to the communities in which they operate. He aims to strengthen Exxaro's community engagement initiatives, focusing on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for local residents.
Our opinion
Ben Magara’s appointment as CEO of Exxaro Resources heralds a new era for the company. With his extensive experience in the mining industry and a strong commitment to sustainability and stakeholder engagement, Magara is well-positioned to lead Exxaro into the future. As he embarks on this new journey, stakeholders can expect a renewed focus on innovation, responsible mining practices, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society. Under his leadership, Exxaro is poised to strengthen its position as a leader in the mining sector while contributing to a more sustainable future for the industry and the communities it serves