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Retaining & Accelerating Talent in PGMs Through Cross-Company Mentoring

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An ATM Gold machine deployed by Brink’s Indonesia
The platinum group metals sector sits at the intersection of global industry, technology and the energy transition. As demand shifts and supply constraints persist, organisations are being asked to deliver resilience alongside operational excellence. In this context, talent is not a background issue but a strategic one.
This is the backdrop against which the Women in Platinum Group Metals cross company mentoring programme, delivered by Moving Ahead, plays a timely and important role.

Why retention and progression matter now

For a sector built on deep expertise and long career arcs, just as essential as attracting new talent is ensuring progression, visibility and long term retention for those already within it. But it’s also about who progresses and stays.
This is not a challenge any single organisation can address alone. In a connected sector like PGMs, where skills and experience move across company boundaries, talent development drives knowledge transfer and innovation – but without clear pathways for professional growth and career progression, it can also contribute to mid career attrition, particularly for women who may have fewer visible role models or support at critical transition points.
Wilma Swarts, chair of Women in Platinum Group Metals and director of PGM research, Metals Focus, explained: “Over the past three years, the Women in Platinum Group Metals mentoring programme has been a genuine force for good in our industry. Where else would a young aspiring business development consultant in the recycling industry or mining process engineer get one-to-one time with a CEO or a senior trader with decades of experience?”

The power of mentoring

The Women in Platinum Group Metals programme brings together mentors and mentees from across the sector in a world-class mentoring experience delivered by Moving Ahead – a leading global expert in structured cross-company mentoring. It is designed to support women’s progression by combining purposeful matching, clear expectations and a strong focus on practical career outcomes.
“When mentoring is intentional and well-structured, the impact is felt both in individual confidence and in the strength of the wider talent pipeline. This programme sends a clear and important message: women are supported, valued, and have a future in this sector. For many participants, it has been genuinely game-changing — and that is exactly what we set out to achieve”, Swarts added.
At its core, the programme is built on a simple premise: talented women are more likely to stay and progress in the sector when they have access to experience, perspective, challenge and supportive networks. Cross company mentoring creates those conditions at scale and adds an important additional dimension. By pairing participants with mentors from outside their own organisation, it enables more open career conversations, broader sector insight and access to networks that extend beyond internal structures.

Liz Dimmock, founder and CEO of Moving Ahead, said: “Cross company programmes create space for honest, high quality and timely career conversations that individuals don’t always get access to elsewhere. We’ve worked with over 400 organisations and 40,000 individuals globally since 2014, and cross-company mentoring consistently creates a positive impact on both mentors’ and mentees’ careers, with a ripple effect across the sectors they work in”.

Voices from the programme

Programme impact data shows improved confidence for mentees, who report benefiting from external perspectives within the sector, and mentors who describe participation as a mutually beneficial, positive and fulfilling experience. A number of mentees even report promotions, expanded responsibilities and role moves within just nine months on the programme. Beyond policy and regulation, infrastructure innovation is emerging as a significant driver of change. One of the most notable developments is the rise of ATM Gold (also referred to as Gold ATM or ATGM), which enables automated buying and selling of physical gold.
The stories of individual mentors and mentees provide powerful insight into how cross company mentoring supports careers in practice.

Doris Bao
(Director, Gold Harvest Management) – Mentor and mentee

With over 20 years in the precious metals market, Doris joined the programme as both a mentor and a mentee while navigating a major career transition. Moving from a senior banking role to independent consulting prompted questions about confidence and direction. One mentoring conversation proved pivotal. “She encouraged me to be myself and follow my heart,” Doris explains. “That moment really touched me”. The programme helped her reframe self-doubt and move forward with confidence.
As a mentor, Doris saw similar shifts in others. “They became more positive and more confident”, she says, reinforcing her belief in mentoring as a powerful accelerator of sustainable careers in PGMs.

Anna Marchisio
(Business Development Manager, Critical Raw Materials Recycling Hensel Recycling GmbH) – Mentor

Now in her third year as a mentor, Anna has seen clear shifts in how mentees approach decisions and progress. Despite these challenges, Indonesia’s direction is clear. With strong policy support from OJK, growing industry participation, and infrastructure innovation such as ATM Gold, the country is well-positioned to unlock the full potential of its gold market.
One mentee arrived “completely confused” and unhappy in her role. Through mentoring, she made concrete changes, explored internal opportunities and gained clarity without needing to leave her organisation. “It was quite a change”, Anna explained, “But she moved from being puzzled to being extremely focused”.
Another mentee accepted a new external role after Anna deliberately stepped back. “I just listened”, she said, allowing the mentee to act “with her own courage, without pressure”. For Anna, impact lies in confidence, agency and sustained forward movement.

Maitshoko Tumane
(Consultant, ERM) – Mentee

Maitshoko joined the programme while questioning her career direction and confidence to move closer to the mining sector. “I was at a point where I didn’t know whether to turn left, right, or pause”, she explained. Through mentoring, she reframed self judgement and took tangible steps forward — updating her CV, posting on LinkedIn for the first time and reaching out directly to industry contacts. “I was very afraid of putting myself out there,” she said. “Now I take baby steps, and that’s a big change”.
For Maitshoko, the programme translated reflection into action, building confidence, visibility and momentum.

Karen Otto
(Group Marketing Manager, Northam Platinum Holdings Limited) – Mentor

As a mentor, Karen has seen how mentoring accelerates career movement. One mentee reassessed her direction, gained confidence and ultimately transitioned into a new technical field. “She just needed guidance on how to approach the conversation,” Karen explained. That support helped the mentee secure training and a new role elsewhere.
Equally impactful was Karen’s own shift in approach. “You think you’re helping”, she reflected, “But sometimes you’re actually getting in the way”. By stepping back, Karen enabled autonomy and growth — reinforcing that mentoring impact often lies in listening, not leading.

Mel Devine
(Sales Operations Specialist, Valterra Platinum) – Mentee

With decades in PGMs, Mel joined as a mentee to gain perspective at a pivotal career stage. “I needed direction — an outsider’s view of my options”, she explained. Her mentor helped her reconnect with networks, explore consultancy pathways and rebuild confidence about the future. “It’s been a huge confidence booster”, Mel said.
Her mindset has shifted: “I now put myself in rooms and conversations differently”. For Mel, the impact lies in clarity, renewed agency and readiness for a sustainable next chapter.

Strengthening the sector through collaboration

As the sector continues to navigate change, sustained investment in people will remain essential. Done well, mentoring ensures that more women can see, pursue and sustain long term careers in platinum group metals, to the benefit of individuals, organisations and the industry as a whole.

Register your interest for the next cohort by emailing judith.evans@moving-ahead.org.

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Mr Bernard Sin

Regional Director, Greater China
MKS PAMP (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Regional Director of Greater China since 2020, and previously Head of Trading. Bernard joined MKS PAMP as a country representative of Singapore in 1996 and moved to Switzerland in 1997. He holds an MBA in International Business from the European University in Geneva. Prior to joining MKS PAMP, Bernard worked 6 years for Standard Chartered Bank in Singapore and Hong Kong as an FX and Bullion Dealer.

SBMA-Albert-secretariat

Albert Cheng

Chief Executive Officer

Albert Cheng joined the World Gold Council in March 1993 as a Regional Manager, becoming Managing Director, Far East in 2003. He retired at the end of March 2015 and was subsequently named its Advisor. He has also been an International Advisor to the Shanghai Gold Exchange since 2002.

His marketing career began with Dentsu Young & Rubicam, Hong Kong in the early 80’s. He began gold marketing in July 1985 when he joined the Royal Canadian Mint as a Regional Manager for Southeast Asia.

He was appointed honorary CEO of SBMA in November 2015. He is responsible for the success and strategic development of SBMA in partner with the Chairman and the Management Committee. Also, he is responsible for maintaining accountability to and the quality of, the Association’s Membership and the annual Asia Pacific Precious Metals Conference (APPMC) as well as representing the interests of the Association in relation to regulators, investors, media and international precious metal markets, and also responsible for all the legal and regulatory aspects of the work of the Association.

SBMA-margare-secretariat

Margaret Wong

Executive Director – Head of Operations

Margaret Wong, Executive Director – Head of Operations at SBMA (Singapore Bullion Market Association), brought valuable experience from her previous role at the World Gold Council (WGC). Her tenure at WGC provided her with extensive exposure to the gold community in Singapore and the broader region. This background has been instrumental in establishing strong working relationships within the industry.

Margaret’s role at SBMA encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities. She oversees office management, business support processes, finance, and administrative functions essential for the smooth operation of the team and management committee. Additionally, Margaret handles membership matters, member communications, and addresses public inquiries related to SBMA.

One of Margaret’s key responsibilities is coordinating with the Event Management Company for SBMA’s prestigious annual event, the Asia Pacific Precious Metals Conference. This flagship conference plays a crucial role in the industry, making her involvement pivotal in its success.

Described as resourceful and self-motivated, Margaret Wong brings a wealth of skills and experience to her role at SBMA, ensuring efficient operations and effective engagement within the precious metals community in Singapore and beyond.

SBMA Secretariat-Fabian-Lew

Fabian Lew

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Fabian was a Business Development and Marketing Associate before joining SBMA. He graduated from Singapore Management University with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.

He has joined SBMA since February, 2022.

Ms Crystal Xu

Vice President
TD Securities
Based in Singapore, Crystal has over a decade of experience in the metals market, specializing in trading, structuring, and delivering solutions for institutional and commercial clients across Asia. She leads initiatives spanning both physical and derivative products and plays a central role in advancing TD’s regional metals strategy. With deep expertise in market dynamics and strong cross-functional collaboration, she helps drive business growth, product innovation, and risk-informed decision making across the firm’s Asia-Pacific platform.

SECRETARIAT SBMA Clara-Chang

Clara Chang

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS EXECUTIVE
Clara Chang joins SBMA as the Marketing & Communications Executive, enriching the team with her extensive experience in content creation, social media management, and digital marketing. Prior to joining SBMA, Clara held the position of Marketing Executive at her previous job. She holds two bachelor’s degrees from the University at Buffalo, one in International Trade and another in Geographical Information Science. Her core duties will include maintaining the SBMA website, managing the quarterly Crucible newsletter, among other responsibilities.

SECRETARIAT SBMA-Emily-Oh

Emily Oh

OPERATIONS & ADMIN EXECUTIVE
Emily Oh is the Operations & Admin Executive, a seasoned professional who values teamwork and effective communication. She is skilled at adapting to new challenges and takes a proactive and resourceful approach to every task. Before joining SBMA, Emily had experience coordinating international travel arrangements and spearheading community initiatives. Her role at SBMA will be providing operational and administrative support for projects and other matters to the team.

Singapore Bullion Market Association Secretariat-Lee-Jia-Yi

Lee Jia Yi

OPERATIONS & ADMIN EXECUTIVE
Before joining SBMA, Jia Yi worked as an Admin & Reporting Officer in her previous role. She holds a Diploma in Business & Social Enterprise from Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Jia Yi is responsible for managing and maintaining physical and digital files in SBMA, supporting invoicing processes, reconciling receivables and payables, coordinating meetings and conferences. Additionally, she will provide support to the team and assist the Business Director in managing the Association’s office operations and general administrative activities.

Ms Pawan Nawawattanasub

Ms Pawan Nawawattanasub

CEO
YLG Bullion Singapore Pte Ltd

Pawan is the CEO of YLG Bullion Singapore and founder of YLG Bullion International. She has almost 40 years of experience in the jewellery industry and established YLG in Thailand in 2003. In 2012, she brought YLG to Singapore. She sits on the Board of Directors of the Thailand Gold Traders Association, the Thailand Futures Exchange’s Arbitration Committee, and the Rotary Bangkok committee. She holds a master’s degree in Political Science.

SBMA-Shaokai-Fan

Mr Shaokai Fan

Head of Asia-Pacific (ex China) and Global Head of Central Banks
World Gold Council
Shaokai Fan is the Global Head of Central Banks at the World Gold Council, responsible for advising governments on gold matters, and enhancing the gold market through engagement, dialogue, and thought leadership. He works directly with central banks and sovereign wealth funds on investment considerations. Prior to this position, Shaokai held multiple roles at Standard Chartered Bank, including Director for Asia Strategic Initiatives and Associate-Director for Public Sector coverage. Shaokai holds a Masters of Public Administration from Columbia University and the London School of Economics, and an undergraduate degree in finance and economics from New York University.

SBMA-Committee-Alan-Liew

Mr Alan Liew

Head of Bullion & Commodities Trading
United Overseas Bank Limited
Alan is Head of Bullion and Commodities Trading for Group Trading in Global Markets, United Overseas Bank (UOB). Alan joined UOB and started the bank’s commodities trading business in 2014, previously he spent eight years in Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) trading both precious and base metals. During his tenure at SCB, he obtained the SGE gold trader licence and was part of the pioneering team for the SGE business and the FX quantitative trading team. Prior to trading, he worked for Monetary Authority of Singapore in the Financial Risk Management Division. He holds a BSc (Hon) in Computer Science at National University of Singapore and a MSc in Financial Engineering at Nanyang Technological University.

SBMA Committee-KL-Yap

Mr KL Yap

General Manager, Singapore Refining Business Unit
Metalor Technologies (Singapore) Pte Ltd
KL YAP is the General Manager of Metalor Technologies (Singapore) Pte Ltd’s Singapore Refining Business Unit. He joined Metalor in 2013, initially in Refining Sales. In 2014, he became Refining Business Unit Manager, leading the development of a new precious metal refinery. KL was Vice Chairman of SBMA from 2017 to 2021, now serving as Chairman. With a degree in business commerce, finance, and marketing, he brings prior experience from refinery and heavy industries.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Vinh-Nguyen

Mr Vinh Nguyen

Head of Precious Metals, Asia
StoneX APAC Pte Ltd

Vinh Nguyen joined StoneX Group in Singapore at the beginning of 2008 and responsible for its APAC precious metals activities since 2019 until now.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Kazuya-Naoki

Mr Kazuya Naoki

Managing Director – Head of Metals, Asia
ICBC Standard Bank Plc, Singapore Branch
Kazuya (Kaz) Naoki is the Managing Director – Head of Metals, Asia of ICBC Standard Bank in Singapore and is responsible for the precious & base metals sales and trading in the region. He joined Standard Bank Plc Tokyo Branch in 2008 and was relocated to its Singapore Branch in 2013 whose controlling stake was acquired by the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China in 2015. Prior to joining Standard Bank, Kaz spent 11 years focusing on commodity trading and risk management with Mitsui & Co in Tokyo, Sydney and London. Kaz has been serving on the SBMA Management Committee since 2016.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Andrew-Clarke

Mr Andrew Clarke

Head of Brink’s Global Services
Brink’s Global Services Pte Ltd

Andrew Clarke is the Head of BGS (Brink’s Global Services) for Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. He has held various leadership positions throughout his career in secure logistics and risk management with Brink’s, which started in Hong Kong in 2010. Andrew relocated to Singapore in 2018 to expand the precious metals line of business along with Brink’s portfolio of services and industries.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Raman-Walia

Mr Raman Walia

Managing Director
JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A.

Raman is Managing Director for J.P. Morgan. He joined JPMorgan in 2008 in New York, moved to Singapore in 2011, and helped expand the precious metals business in the region. Raman has an MBA from Cornell University, and likes to travel in his spare time.

SBMA-Committee-khun nuttapong

Mr Nuttapong Hirunyasiri

CEO
MTS Gold Global Trading Pte Ltd
Nuttapong Hirunyasiri is the CEO of MTS Gold Group, one of Thailand’s top 10 companies and top 3 bullion companies. He started MTS Gold Group’s first overseas office in Singapore and has been expanding the group business internationally. He focuses on product development and innovation for gold investment, with the aim of being a leader in providing the full suite of gold investment services in the ASEAN region.

SBMA-Committee-Nikos

Mr Nikos Kavalis

Managing Director
Metals Focus Singapore Pte Ltd
Nikos Kavalis is a founding partner of Metals Focus. He has over 20 years of experience in precious metals, having previously worked for the Royal Bank of Scotland and GFMS. Since September 2019, Nikos has been based in Singapore, where he also runs the local subsidiary of Metals Focus.