CEMI names new environmental R&D director

Leon C. Botham has been named the new environmental research and development program director for the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI).

Botham will take up his duties effective, immediately, according to a news release. He is presently vice-president of mining at McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd.

In addition to his current role with McElhanney, he will be working with the CEMI team to assist and advise CEMI in the areas of environment and sustainability related to mining.

Botham brings more than 24 years consulting experience in tailings management and environmental issues for mines in Canada and globally, according to the press release.

Prior to joining McElhanney in 2011, he spent 22 years with Golder Associates Ltd., including as Canadian Mining Leader during his last five years.

“Mr. Botham’s experience includes design of waste management facilities for base metals, precious metals, industrial minerals and other specialty commodities throughout Canada, the United States, South America, Africa and Asia,” Douglas Morrison, President and CEO, CEMI, said.

“Furthermore, he has extensive management experience and is a proven team builder that has directed multi-disciplinary teams of engineers, scientists and social scientists to meet the diverse needs of clients.”

In the role of R&D program director for environment and sustainability, Botham will work with other divisions within CEMI to identify research topics and will provide direction to, and monitor the performance of the researchers working on tailings management, waste geo-chemistry and biochemistry research projects.

He will liaise with industrial clients who have projects with CEMI to identify potential research topics. He will also coordinate with other research centres to encourage collaboration on topics of interest.

Posted by Arron Pickard