Overview

This practitioner focused session with Alexandra Robertson explores how major hazard risks emerge not from dramatic failures but from the subtle ways change is introduced and governed across mining and refining operations.

Drawing on experience in hydrometallurgical refining, nickel and coal operations, and downstream processing, Alexandra examines the cultural and regulatory interfaces that obscure process safety risks and create recurring blind spots.

Attendees will gain practical insights into managing change, strengthening process safety capability, and recognising where process safety thinking can add the most value across the mining–metals value chain.

Speaker

Alexandra Robertson, Chief Operating Officer, Quantem Bulk liquid Storage and Handling

Alexandra is a senior operations and process safety leader with more than two decades of experience across mining, hydrometallurgical refining, coal operations and downstream processing. Known for her ability to stabilise complex assets and lead organisations through periods of significant change, she brings a rare blend of technical depth, operational credibility and strategic clarity.

Her career spans major hazard facilities and large scale processing operations, where she has strengthened governance frameworks, uplifted process safety capability and reshaped organisational cultures to better align with high risk operating environments. Alexandra is particularly recognised for her work at the interfaces, where mining, refining and regulatory expectations collide, and for helping organisations see the hidden risks that emerge when change becomes normalised.

The material presented has not been peer-reviewed. Any opinions are the presenter’s own and do not necessarily represent those of IChemE or the Mining and Minerals Special Interest Group. The information is given in good faith but without any liability on the part of IChemE.

Time

09:00–10:00 BST.

Software

The presentation will be delivered via Microsoft Teams. We recommend downloading the app from the Microsoft website, rather than using the web portal.