SKM Affirms Focus on Africa
Global strategic consulting, engineering and project delivery company, Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM), has affirmed its focus on Africa as one of its key emerging markets.
SKM will be participating in Africa’s largest mining expo, Mining Indaba, in Cape Town, 6-9 February.
Whilst the Australian-headquartered company earns 30% of its A$1.2 billion revenue in markets outside Australia, it is looking to expand this to 50% by 2020, particularly in the emerging and resource economies of Africa, South America and Asia.
In terms of mining projects in Africa, SKM is currently undertaking environmental assessment work in Liberia, field investigation and design services for a planned mine in Guinea, and support services for an underground mine in Ghana.
Newly-appointed CEO, Santo Rizzuto, has predicted 15% growth for SKM over the next 12 months, a quarter of which is likely to come from mining and resources-related work.
“To service our client needs, we see great opportunities for further growth in the resources sector, which inevitably will require us to expand our footprint in new markets.
“Africa therefore presents a perfect opportunity for growth,” he said.
He admits that this strategy is not without its challenges.
“Having the right people with the right attitudes and behaviours is vital. We are constantly looking for strategic recruits, with international experience, who want to work on exciting projects around the world, to help us service our clients and grow our business.
“We are also looking for companies with whom we can partner to deliver projects as effectively as possible in Africa, as well as potential merger and acquisition opportunities.”
SKM has been active in Africa for the past 20 years, working on mining and power projects across the continent. More than 100 projects have been delivered in 20 countries over the past decade.
From its global offices, particularly in the UK and Australia, SKM has been undertaking due diligence, owner’s engineer, feasibility studies, environmental approvals and audits on a variety of power projects, as well as studies, environmental and social impact assessments, engineering design and early works for mining projects.
About Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM)
Sinclair Knight Merz is a leading projects firm, with global capability in strategic consulting, engineering and project delivery. It operates in three regions: Asia Pacific, the Americas and EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa), deploying some 7,000 people from more than 40 offices while serving the Buildings and Infrastructure, Mining and Metals, Power and Energy and Water and Environment sectors.
For further information contact:
Maria Whaley
Capability Marketing Manager, Mining and Metals
Telephone: +61 404 493 205
Email: mwhaley@globalskm.com