GIDEON TEMBO
Metallurgist
Kitwe,Copperbelt
Summary
Plant Metallurgist with 5+ years of experience across flotation, hydrometallurgy (SX–EW), and pyrometallurgy within large, complex processing plants. Proven track record in improving plant stability, optimising reagent strategies, and leading metallurgical trials that enhance concentrate quality, reduce smelter penalties, and strengthen operational reliability. Skilled in debottlenecking, process optimisation, and developing long-term operating strategies for variable ore conditions. Highly proficient in data‑driven decision‑making using Excel, Power BI, PI Vision, SCADA/DCS, and metallurgical reporting systems. Strong collaborator with operations, maintenance, geology and technical teams, committed to safe, disciplined, and results‑focused metallurgical leadership. Fully willing and prepared to relocate for suitable opportunities, including international assignments.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Shift Metallurgist
First Quantum Minerals
Kalumbila
01.2024 - Current
- Enhanced concentrate quality and reduced smelter penalties by trialling and implementing carbon depressant D900, replacing CMC.
- Improved pyrite control and concentrate quality by conducting lab test work and implementing a high‑pH operating strategy.
- Developed daily operating strategy to optimise throughput, recovery, and concentrate grade.
- Improved overall plant stability and availability by re‑routing frother and depressant dosing points, reducing flotation cell depressions during ore variability events.
- Performed metallurgical studies, plant trials, and shutdown inspections to inform operational improvements.
- Ensured data integrity from online analysers and coordinated routine checks with operations to uphold quality standards.
- Analyse underperformance, perform RCA and implement improvements.
Plant Metallurgist – Operations
Mopani Copper Mines
Kitwe
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Directed metallurgical problem-solving initiatives, achieving quality and production targets.
- Investigated technical issues, implementing recommended process improvements to enhance operations.
- Ensured accuracy of operational reporting, facilitating effective coordination between operations and maintenance.
- Identified root cause and delivered recommendations to alleviate future issues and failures.
- Recommended changes in processing conditions based on laboratory test results to improve product quality and plant performance.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations during all phases of plant operations.
- Mentored junior metallurgists on techniques and best practices in materials science.
Accounting Metallurgist
Mopani Copper Mines
07.2022 - 01.2023
- Compiled metallurgical reports detailing balances and inventories to support operational decision-making.
- Monitored reagent stocks and losses, analyzed KPIs, and conducted belt cuts and load tests to ensure process accuracy.
- Analyzed material properties to enhance product quality and performance.
- Conducted metallurgical experiments to develop innovative processing techniques.
- Collaborated with engineering teams on design and material selection projects.
Senior Assistant Metallurgical Engineer
Mopani Copper Mines
Mufulira
01.2022 - 07.2022
- Conducted technical monitoring and investigated efficiency improvements.
- Supervised personnel and coordinated efforts with support departments to enhance workflow.
- Coordinated and managed special projects, ensuring completion within established timelines and specifications.
- Conducted research and compiled data for senior executives to support decision-making processes.
- Provided training and guidance to junior staff, enhancing team skills and performance.
- Maintained positive working relationship with fellow staff and management.
- Assisted with the preparation of presentations, reports and other documents for management meetings.
- Coordinated administrative tasks for senior management and project teams.
- Developed and maintained filing systems for project documentation.
Metallurgical Accountant / SX–EW Foreman / Control Room Operator
CNMC Luanshya Copper Mines
03.2020 - 01.2022
- Managed SX–EW shift teams to maintain operational quality and safety standards.
- Controlled heap leach and SX–EW operations via SCADA to optimize process monitoring.
- Prepared production reports that validated copper cathode output accuracy.
Plant Metallurgical Engineer
Matalloy Company Limited
01.2019 - 03.2020
- Oversaw furnace charge preparation, tapping, casting, and crushing operations to ensure optimal material quality.
- Monitored furnace electrical parameters to maintain compliance with operational targets.
- Conducted material analysis to determine metallurgical properties and suitability.
- Collaborated with team to develop innovative metal processing techniques.
- Evaluated quality control measures for raw materials and finished products.
Education
BEng - Metallurgical Engineering
The Copperbelt University
Zambia11-2018
Skills
- Process optimization
- Plant stability
- Metallurgical accounting
- Mass balancing
- Flotation strategy
- Reagent optimization
- Hydromet operational expertise
- SX–EW
- Pyrometallurgical furnace operations
- Process control
- Data analysis
- SCADA monitoring
- Safety leadership
- Risk management
- Cross-functional communication
- Stakeholder engagement
Tools And Systems
- Excel
- Power BI
- PI Vision
- SCADA
- DCS
Degree
BEng Metallurgical Engineering
Languages
- English, Excellent
- Bemba, Excellent
References
Available upon request.
Professional Associations
Engineering Institute of Zambia, Member
Personal Information
- Relocation: Fully willing and prepared to relocate for suitable opportunities, including international assignments.
Timeline
Shift Metallurgist
First Quantum Minerals
01.2024 - Current
Plant Metallurgist – Operations
Mopani Copper Mines
01.2023 - 01.2024
Accounting Metallurgist
Mopani Copper Mines
07.2022 - 01.2023
Senior Assistant Metallurgical Engineer
Mopani Copper Mines
01.2022 - 07.2022
Metallurgical Accountant / SX–EW Foreman / Control Room Operator
CNMC Luanshya Copper Mines
03.2020 - 01.2022
Plant Metallurgical Engineer
Matalloy Company Limited
01.2019 - 03.2020
BEng - Metallurgical Engineering
The Copperbelt University