Mukondi Mathalauga

I am a results-driven Project Manager with over a decade of experience in mining engineering, underground construction, and infrastructure projects. I hold a Master of Engineering in Project Management and a BSc (Hons) in Mining Engineering, and I have completed a Master of Laws in Extractive Industries Law in Africa. My career has equipped me with the ability to deliver complex, high-risk projects across the full lifecycle, from estimation, scope definition, and cost planning to execution, contractor management, and stakeholder engagement.

I have successfully led high-impact initiatives, including the implementation of high-capacity emulsion utility vehicles that boosted production by 13%, underground TMM construction and high-risk blasting projects completed with zero injuries, and the development of a production costing model that streamlined planning and improved cost transparency. I am skilled at coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

My technical expertise includes Candy Software: Estimating, Budgeting, Construction Planning, Forecasting, and Cash Flow, as well as MS Project and MS Office Suite. I bring a disciplined, analytical, and commercially aware approach to project delivery, with transferable strengths in process improvement, operational efficiency, and leadership development. These capabilities position me strongly for senior project management and business improvement roles within the mining, engineering, and infrastructure industries.

Mining Engineer (Projects Estimating & Planning) at Cementation Africa (formerly Murray & Roberts Cementation) (2022-07 – Present)

• Prepare detailed and competitive cost estimates for underground mining and infrastructure projects, interpreting tender documentation, developing scopes of work, compiling bills of quantities, and establishing project cost models.
• Select appropriate mining methods, equipment, resources, and productivity assumptions to support tender strategies and execution programmes.
• Develop project schedules, cycles, and execution programmes using MS Project and Excel to inform decision-making and optimise planning.
• Compile cash-flow forecasts and support feasibility studies through scenario modelling and proactive risk analysis.
• Engage cross-functional teams, suppliers, and vendors to obtain pricing and technical inputs, ensuring commercially viable and compliant tenders.
• Conduct proactive risk identification and mitigation to align with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.

Project Manager at Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine (2021-10 – 2022-06)

• Directed planning and execution of underground infrastructure and capital projects across short-, medium-, and long-term horizons.
• Managed multimillion-rand project budgets, cost control, schedules, and contractor performance to ensure delivery within scope and timelines.
• Oversaw capital procurement and contract management processes, ensuring compliance with governance and commercial standards.
• Championed personnel development and performance management, building high-performing project teams.
• Delivered projects safely and cost-effectively, aligning outcomes with strategic business objectives.

Mine Overseer at Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine (2019-06 – 2021-09)

• Accountable for underground production, safety, and compliance with the Mine Health and Safety Act.
• Directed execution of mining and infrastructure projects within a production environment, balancing operational efficiency with safety.
• Led investigations into incidents, accidents, and operational deviations, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Coordinated interdepartmental activities to achieve production targets and optimise resource utilisation.
• Mentored and developed subordinates, strengthening workforce competence and productivity.

Shift Boss at Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine (2018-06 – 2019-05)

• Supervised daily production activities, labour allocation, and shift planning to meet operational targets.
• Enforced mine standards, safety procedures, and company policies underground.
• Implemented performance objectives to improve productivity and compliance.

Miner at Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine (2017-12 – 2018-06)

Reason for leaving: End of development term.

• Provided leadership to developing and stoping crews, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Conducted marking off of support and shot holes, charging up faces, and safe blasting activities.
• Optimised production while reducing accidents and incidents through strict adherence to safety protocols.
• Ensured compliance with the Mine Health and Safety Act and achievement of production targets.

Contractor Management, Risk & Standards Officer (Acting) at Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine (2017-02 – 2017-09)

• Led site safety inspections and managed safety coordinators/officers to enforce compliance.
• Coordinated and participated in safety audits and risk assessments for operations.
• Ensured application of legislation, managerial procedures, and codes of practice across mining activities.
• Investigated incidents and accidents, implementing corrective measures to strengthen safety culture.
• Managed contractors, ensuring adherence to mine standards and legislative requirements.

Miner at Two Rivers Platinum Mine (2016-07 – 2016-08)

Graduate Mining Engineer at Dilokong Chrome Mine (2013-01 – 2016-04)

Project Management Professional in Project Management – Project Management Institute (2026)

Master of Laws in Extractive Industries Law in Africa – University of Pretoria (2025)

Master of Engineering in Project Management – University of Pretoria (2020)

Mine Manager's Certificate of Competency in Mining – DMR (2017)

Rock Breaking Certificate in Mining – MQA (2014)

BSc (Hons) in Mining Engineering – Wits University (2012)

Matric Certificate – Thengwe Secondary (2007)