Charl Barnard

Executive Director Operations @AtRQ USA LLC

COOAdvisorConsultingC-level Executive

A high-impact senior executive, leader, and mentor with over 20 years of hands-on experience leading large-scale, multi-asset mining, mining services, minerals exploration, supply chain, and project management operations across some of the most challenging jurisdictions in Africa, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. Highly experienced in leading with a growth and compliance mindset, driving triple-bottom-line performance, and building high-performing, solution-focused teams in complex, high-pressure, multi-jurisdictional environments. Held board and executive roles within private equity-backed companies and LSE- and ASX-listed multinationals, with oversight across nine mining and exploration operations in six African countries. Demonstrated capability in full P&L accountability, operational excellence, zero-harm leadership, ESG compliance, and the development of high-performance, multicultural teams delivering sustainable financial outcomes in remote and complex settings. Served as Group Executive Head of Occupational Health and Hygiene, Safety, Environment, Quality Systems (ISO and related standards), Security, Systems, and Risk Management, with a strong focus on ESG governance, continuous improvement, assurance, and reporting. Proven track record in business planning and execution, operational turnarounds, post-acquisition integration, and operational resets. Extensive experience directing and overseeing open-pit, alluvial, and underground mining; processing operations; technical services; asset management and maintenance; supply chain and logistics; outsourced mining, operational and technical services contractors; mine production support, maintenance services, labour and manpower supply, site utilities and logistics; mining equipment and fleets; business improvement; risk management; capital projects; and external service providers. Highly experienced in integrated project delivery (EPC/EPCM), greenfield mine development and construction oversight, as well as brownfield mine upgrades and expansions.