The heart of DRA

Our people – more than 4,000 across five continents – are the heart of DRA.  

In our pursuit to turn the future of mining into reality as the most sought-after company in our field, our success hinges on the power of our people and their unwavering dedication to forge ahead. 

Our people bring deep expertise in their respective fields, innovative thinking and a client-centric approach to their teams and roles every single day.  As we approach 40 years in business, our milestones and successes are a testament to the immense contribution of remarkable people. 

Get inspired by these testimonials from our team members as they share what it truly means to be a part of DRA. 

 

Adelaide De Wet 

Executive Assistant 

 

“The level of determination and passion everyone puts into their work makes us grow beyond what we thought was capable and prepares us for any challenges we face. It drives me to be a better employee.”

 

Alwyn Scholtz

Study Manager 

 

“DRA’s policy on flexible working arrangements has enabled me to work with project teams across different time zones including South Africa, USA and Australia, whilst still planning my day to incorporate the needs of my family.”

 

    Micheal Tassone

Head of Tax - APAC and AMER 

 

“Our people are DRA. Despite the challenges we’ve faced this year, collectively we have remained focused on the positives and have never lost sight of the common goals we all want to achieve.”

 

    Morne Kruger

Project Manager

 

“It’s well recognised that people are the cornerstone of the business. It can be seen throughout the business; our people are high performers, they are motivated and stimulated, they are given ownership and autonomy, and they are happy to be part of DRA.”

 

Carmia Venter

Quantity Surveyor 

 

“Having entered the mining industry earlier this year, the experience has been interesting and complex but very rewarding so far. I’ve been lucky enough to go to site and see projects on paper and spreadsheets being executed into large working components.” 

 

Enrique Valdivia 

Senior Vice President, South America 

 

“At DRA in South America, we have the courage to build our business, win big projects and studies, explore new initiatives and take calculated risks to make us a better Company. Our people trust in what we have built and our journey of growth.”

 

    Erica Cawdry

Lead Electrical Engineer 

 

“I've worked at three different DRA offices in different cities. From a technical and interpersonal perspective, the quality of the people who work at DRA has been a standout for me.

The opportunity to work on diverse and interesting projects motivates me to come into work each day. No two days are the same, and there’s always a different challenge or problem to solve. Working on the Yangibana Rare Earths Project for Hasting Technology Metals Limited will no doubt be a standout for me in 2023.”

 

    Jeanette Mokganyetji Molepo

Instrument Mechanician 

 

“I’ve always been motivated by results. Working for a global engineering, project delivery and operations management group has allowed me to deliver outcomes and achieve a great sense of accomplishment. Above all, coming to a work environment that prioritises my safety, health and wellbeing gives me peace of mind.”

 

Lauren Rovelli

Senior Manager, Development and Engagement

 

“DRA is big enough to attract exciting projects and people, but feels small enough that you’re not just another number. As a global company, there are many rewarding career opportunities for people who put their hand up and want to stretch themselves professionally.”

 

Leanie Naude 

Technical Manager 

 

“DRA has a strong culture of inclusivity and family. I’ve been fortunate enough to receive support and encouragement from my peers during challenging times, and have also been celebrated during times of triumph.

Just knowing that what I do makes a difference to the organisation, and is valued by my colleagues and our clients, brings a lot of meaning and satisfaction to my career at DRA. I’m excited for the future and to be part of an innovative organisation that is always willing and ready to adapt to ensure we stay the ahead of the rest.”

 

    Lucas Ngobeni

Vice President,  Operations 

 

“The people who work under the DRA Group have become my second family. I’ve worked at DRA for 20 years, and our people are the most important assets for the business and underpin our successes. We’ve accomplished many great things together, we all share the same vision, and we all actively care about each other’s wellbeing.”

 

    Matt van Wyk

Managing Director, Minopex Technical Advisory

 

“Leading the establishment of our Advisory service has offered me the opportunity to design and implement a differentiating capability in the DRA Group, while still equipping the team of technical professionals with the softer skills required to consult effectively to our clients.”

 

Mélanie LaRoche-Boisvert

Mining Engineer

 

“DRA has been very supportive of my career and professional development. Since I started two years ago, I’ve earned my professional engineering designation, had the opportunity expand my skills and participate on different committees, and proudly attended various conferences as the vice chair of Women in Mining Canada with the full support of DRA.”

 

Michael Carretta 

Senior Vice President, Delivery

 

“Establishing the operations and maintenance (O&M) business in APAC has been one of my highlights at DRA. We started with smaller projects such as the Dargues Gold Processing Plant for Diversified Minerals but have since established long-term contracts. We’re now fully mobilised for the Carmichael Coal Project contract, which sets a strong foundation for the DRA Group to expand its O&M capability.”

 

Bradley Pather

Civil and Structural Engineer

 

“DRA’s strong focus on safety aligns with my values. As we get older, the value we place on our families grows exponentially. Knowing that I work for a company that genuinely cares for its employee’s health and preservation, especially in a risk-laden industry, provides me and my loved ones with comfort and surety.”

 

Thabang Masingi

Plant Operator

 

“At DRA, I feel motivated to succeed. Being a hard worker and perseverance will help me achieve greater professional success, and it’s what keeps me going. I absolutely enjoy the friendly working environment and motivating my teammates to ensure we are moving forward in the right direction.”

 

Read more about our people in the FY2022 Annual Report.