Driving sustainable investment in African Mining

Bily Purushothaman

Founder, Director & Technical Lead AIR Consult

I am a Strategic and results-oriented executive and electrical engineer with 22+ years of experience in operations, technology, and business transformations across multinational environments in mining. With experience both locally and globally, I have led large scale operations, completed large and medium sized capital projects, created and implemented technology strategies and roadmaps across De Beers, Anglo American and AngloGold Ashanti. I have demonstrated success in driving operational excellence and integrating advanced technologies to enhance safety, productivity, and growth. In a world overflowing with data, tools, technology and AI initiatives, my strength lies in helping teams focus on what truly matters. Certified through MIT Sloan, my passion for innovation and practical problem-solving is what led me to found Air Consult in 2025, a business consulting firm helping SMMEs and entrepreneurs leverage AI and process automation to drive growth, cut costs, and boost efficiency. I continue to be an advocate of the Women in Mining, Women in Tech and Women in STEM, through various organizations and investing in female led tech startups. I want to be the shoulder for our future generations to stand on. 
 


2026 Agenda Sessions

Cross pollinating innovation – what can mining learn from oil & gas technology?

As mining enters a new era of digital transformation, it faces a critical question: why reinvent the wheel when adjacent industries have already paved the way? While mining companies may not directly partner with oil and gas operators, the technology providers often work across both sectors, serving as conduits for cross-industry innovation. Learn how these shared tech ecosystems could empower mining to leapfrog legacy systems, reduce implementation risk, and benefit from mature solutions already tested in high-pressure environments

Monday 09 February 15:00 - 16:00 Nubian Pyramids Stage (CTICC2 - Ground Floor - Exhibition Hall)

Add to calendar 02/09/2026 15:00 02/09/2026 16:00 Cross pollinating innovation – what can mining learn from oil & gas technology?

As mining enters a new era of digital transformation, it faces a critical question: why reinvent the wheel when adjacent industries have already paved the way? While mining companies may not directly partner with oil and gas operators, the technology providers often work across both sectors, serving as conduits for cross-industry innovation. Learn how these shared tech ecosystems could empower mining to leapfrog legacy systems, reduce implementation risk, and benefit from mature solutions already tested in high-pressure environments

Nubian Pyramids Stage (CTICC2 - Ground Floor - Exhibition Hall) Africa/Johannesburg