Alex-Oscar ACHI | HR Manger | Montage Gold
Alex-Oscar ACHI is a distinguished leader in the mining industry with a remarkable journey spanning over 14 years in human resources (HR) management. A native of Côte d’Ivoire, Alex-Oscar’s educational background is as diverse as his career. Holding two Master’s degrees—one in business law and another in HR management—his career path has led him through various sectors, including construction and mining. But it was in the mining sector, starting with an Important International Mining company in his mining construction project in 2017 in Côte d’Ivoire, where Alex-Oscar truly made his mark, with the support of the HR department under the leadership of the Project HR Director. At EliteX, we are proud to have Alex-Oscar ACHI as part of the edition: Trailblazing Leaders in Mining, 2024.
As HR Coordinator for this company, he played a pivotal role within the HR team in shaping the local workforce that would drive the project forward. The HR team, consisting of talented individuals, recruited local workers for the project. Under his contribution and the whole HR team, all workers were successfully demobilized at the project’s conclusion, with no grievances or damages—a testament to Alex-Oscar’s skill in managing large-scale operations while maintaining a focus on the well-being of the workforce.
“My vision is to develop local communities’ employability and create sustainable opportunities for the next generation.”
Alex-Oscar’s motivation to pursue a leadership role in mining stems from his passion for building something from the ground up. The challenges and rewards of creating a mining operation from scratch are what fuel his drive. “I’ve worked for several companies in the mining sector, including those starting their activities in Côte d’Ivoire for the first time. It’s exciting to be part of a project from its inception, to build a strong foundation, and to create a sustainable team for the future,” he says. For Alex-Oscar, the energy and satisfaction come from seeing a project develop from concept to reality. Like any industry, the mining sector has its challenges. For Alex-Oscar, one of the biggest hurdles is the inclusion of local communities in the mining projects. “Local communities live around the mining sites and are directly impacted by the mining activities. It’s crucial that we engage them early on, providing them with opportunities, especially for unskilled labor,” he explains. This approach not only helps to integrate the community into the project but also ensures the long-term sustainability of mining operations by fostering goodwill and social responsibility.
Another challenge Alex-Oscar faces is ensuring that mining operations are environmentally sustainable. Mining, by nature, has the potential to harm the environment, but Alex-Oscar emphasizes the importance of developing methods that balance economic growth with environmental protection. “We need to think about how to create a mining complex that integrates local communities, the environment, and the mining activity itself,” he says. The future of mining, for Alex-Oscar, lies in finding ways to operate that minimize environmental impact, preserve natural resources, and support local economies. In an industry that’s constantly evolving, staying informed and adaptive is key to maintaining a competitive edge. Alex-Oscar keeps himself updated on the latest trends by following industry news both locally and internationally. “I subscribe to the GPMCI news magazine, which is the Ivorian mining industry association, and I also follow Mine Insider on LinkedIn, an international mining industry news platform,” he shares. This constant access to information allows Alex-Oscar to stay ahead of developments, ensuring that his company remains competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.
Technology is another area where Alex-Oscar sees significant potential for growth. The introduction of new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), is revolutionizing the mining sector. “AI and other new technologies are speeding up decision-making processes. If you’re not integrating these developments into your operations, it will affect your competitiveness and efficiency,” he explains. For Alex-Oscar, embracing new technologies is not optional—it’s an essential part of staying relevant in an increasingly digital world. Alex-Oscar is particularly proud of his involvement in the Ity Gold Mine project. “Building the infrastructure for the Ity Gold Mine was an incredible achievement. We set up effective management processes for recruitment, staff management, and ensuring the safe demobilization of all employees at the end of the project,” he reflects. The experience gained from managing such a complex project continues to influence his approach in his current role. With his expertise, he aims to have a lasting impact on the development of Côte d’Ivoire’s mining potential.
“Innovation is the key to success, reducing work time and fatigue for the team.”
Sustainability is a priority for Alex-Oscar and his company. “Our operations are conducted in accordance with international standards for sustainable development, respect for the environment, and health and safety at work,” he states. His company not only complies with local and international regulations but also works closely with local communities as integral stakeholders. “Local communities are key partners in our business. We involve them in our operations and address their concerns through a dedicated social performance department,” he adds. This focus on sustainability is crucial for creating long-term value for both the business and the communities it serves. The mining industry is one of the most diverse sectors in the world, with workers from various nationalities and backgrounds. Alex-Oscar emphasizes that managing such a diverse workforce requires a fair and consistent approach. “We operate under company rules and local labor laws, which are impartial and apply to everyone, regardless of nationality, origin, or race,” he explains. For Alex-Oscar, maintaining harmony within a diverse team means adhering to a set of universal standards while respecting individual differences.
For Alex-Oscar, the key qualities that a leader in mining must possess are adaptability, strong organizational skills, and the ability to face challenges head-on. Mining is a tough industry that requires resilience—physically, mentally, and emotionally. “You need to be strong to face the many challenges, including the harsh mining environment, long distances, and remote working conditions,” he explains. Leadership in the mining sector demands a deep understanding of the industry’s complexities, a clear vision, and the ability to make tough decisions. The mining industry is known for its high-pressure environment, and Alex-Oscar’s ability to manage stress and prioritize tasks is a testament to his leadership. “To handle pressure, you need to be organized, detail-oriented, and capable of prioritizing tasks effectively,” he says. His calm demeanor and methodical approach help him navigate the challenges of leadership with ease, ensuring that he can make sound decisions even under pressure.
For young professionals entering the mining industry, Alex-Oscar has some valuable advice: “Be well-educated in your field, stay focused on details, and always aim for results. Self-trust and self-control are also crucial for success.” His guidance highlights the importance of discipline, attention to detail, and a results-driven mindset in a field that demands hard work and perseverance.
Looking to the future, Alex-Oscar is optimistic about the mining industry’s growth, particularly in the West African region. Côte d’Ivoire, in particular, is poised to become a key player in the mining sector, with numerous exploration and construction projects in the pipeline. “Côte d’Ivoire is a dynamic market with strong infrastructure, a stable environment, and attractive regulations for investors,” Alex-Oscar notes. He sees a bright future for the country’s mining industry, one that will continue to attract investment and foster economic growth. Innovation, according to Alex-Oscar, is the driving force behind progress in the mining industry. By incorporating innovative tools and processes, mining companies can reduce work time, lower fatigue, and increase efficiency. “Innovation is the key to success. If you integrate it into your business, it helps to streamline operations and make the work easier for your team,” he asserts. For Alex-Oscar, fostering a culture of innovation is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the mining industry.
Alex-Oscar’s current company takes its social responsibility seriously, recognizing that local communities are integral to the success of its operations. “We view local communities as key assets. We operate in their area and work together to ensure that we follow both international and local regulations,” he explains. By fostering strong relationships with local communities, the company ensures that its operations benefit not just the business but the wider community as well.
“My motivation is to start from scratch and achieve tangible results from beginning to end.”
Looking ahead, Alex-Oscar’s vision for the mining industry in Côte d’Ivoire is one of growth, sustainability, and job creation. “My vision is to contribute to the growth of the mining sector by working within established regulations and driving the business forward,” he says. He also envisions a future where local communities are empowered through training and employment opportunities, ensuring that the benefits of mining extend to future generations. Alex-Oscar ACHI’s journey in the mining industry reflects his dedication to building sustainable, impactful operations that benefit both business and community. Through his leadership, innovation, and focus on sustainability, he continues to pave the way for a brighter future for Côte d’Ivoire’s mining sector.