The clock struck 3pm and I knew it was time for an important appointment. As I quickened my steps along the walkways heading to the site office, the sun hung high over Dai Tu, casting long shadows across our bustling plant. Inside the operations center, the air was charged with a mix of routine efficiency and quiet anticipation. In the heart of it all, I found Ashley’s office – a corner space adorned with mine maps on the walls and a touch of greenery from small plants behind his desk. He was there in an orange uniform and wore a welcoming smile.

Our new CEO, who had once walked into this facility as an outsider eager to make a mark, now carried the responsibility of steering the entire company. As he leaned back in his chair, a subtle smile hinted at the journey that had brought him here—a journey marked by resilience, opportunity, and an unwavering belief in the potential of Nui Phao mine and its people.

The chance that landed Ashley on Nui Phao mine all began with a global recruitment consultant. Just 48 hours before embarking on an exciting new role in Africa, he received an invitation to interview for a management position at Nui Phao Mining in Vietnam. Tight though the schedule was, he traveled to Hanoi and Thai Nguyen, where he discovered an operation brimming with potential. “The recruiter knew the Nui Phao team well and spoke highly of their achievements,” he recalls. “When I saw the complexity of the Thai Nguyen operations and the opportunity to work in critical minerals like tungsten and fluorite, I was hooked.”

Six years later, he reflects on his time leading Thai Nguyen Operations with pride. “Building a team of highly capable Vietnamese professionals has been the most rewarding part of this journey. We’ve effectively nationalized the majority of positions and continue to empower local talent to lead a world-class operation.”

With over two decades of mining experience across Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. “Each location has taught me how to build diverse and capable teams,” Ashley shares. “The complexity of Nui Phao—linking mining to refining—is an extension of that journey.”

Looking ahead, he sees Vietnam emerging as a critical minerals manufacturing hub. “China has dominated this space, but demographic shifts and geopolitical dynamics will create opportunities for countries like Vietnam to step into the spotlight.”

At the age of 44, Ashley takes on his first role as CEO with a clear sense of purpose. “The platform at MHT has been built to enable sustainable and high-growth opportunities,” he says. “Vietnam offers incredible advantages: affordable operations, a highly skilled workforce, and a demographic dividend that positions the country as a future powerhouse in Southeast Asia.”

His vision is ambitious: to transform MHT into Vietnam’s Tier 1 mining and refining business, with a focus on diversified critical minerals. “By leveraging our strengths, we aim to expand our production and take significant market share, not just in Southeast Asia but globally.”

Alongside overseeing the Thai Nguyen operations, Ashley has been the chair of MHT’s Sustainability Committee for a couple of years before taking over the top management role. As he spearheads initiatives to align MHT operations with Vietnam’s sustainability goals, a lot of sustainability programs have been implemented such as the establishment of the energy committee, carbon emission analyses, and continuous improvement plans to drive our ESG agenda.

“Environmental, community, and economic sustainability are intertwined”, he explains. “It’s imperative that we always strive to achieve sustainable excellence and best practices in operations and business activities to make sure that we have a sustainable business for all stakeholders.”

We operate in the metals mining and refining sector, a capital-intensive industry focused on producing commoditized products for downstream companies. In this environment, the key value drivers of any asset are underpinned by its geological potential and the innovation of the company.

“Innovation is our greatest lever for competitive advantage,” Ashley asserts. By fostering a culture of creativity, he ensures that MHT stays ahead in this challenging and competitive industry. “Innovation drives cost optimization, enhances production efficiency, elevates customer satisfaction and positions us as a leader in the critical minerals market.”

When asked about his leadership philosophy, Ashley credits the mentors who shaped him. “Craig Bradshaw, Dominic Heaton, Bevan Jones, and Ian McAleese—each taught me invaluable lessons about vision, consistency, and engagement,” he reflects. “Their guidance, along with insights from local communities, has made me a better person and leader.”

When asked about his leadership philosophy, Ashley credits the mentors who shaped him. “Craig Bradshaw, Dominic Heaton, Bevan Jones, and Ian McAleese—each taught me invaluable lessons about vision, consistency, and engagement,” he reflects. “Their guidance, along with insights from local communities, has made me a better person and leader.”

He also prioritizes connecting with employees across all levels. “Daily meetings, walk-arounds, and one-on-one discussions allow me to understand their challenges and support them effectively. I enjoy these interactions because they keep me grounded and connected to our mission.”

In the next decade, Ashley envisions MHT as a diversified critical minerals business that balances innovation, sustainability, and growth. “We aim to build a sustainable ecosystem at Nui Phao that benefits all stakeholders and positions us as a global leader,” he concludes.

Outside of work, Ashley finds joy in family rituals and outdoor adventures. “The mining industry has been demanding, most of the time I work away from home. This somehow has built resilience in my kids,” he says. “We make it a point to come together once a year, no matter where we are.”

An avid gardener and hiker, he’s planning trips to Son Doong Cave and the Camino Trail in France—a pilgrimage he will share with his father and youngest daughter. “These moments help me unwind and gain perspective,” he says.

Ashley thanks his wife and his family for providing unfailing support, without which he couldn’t have accomplished as much as he has.