James McQuilken

Director, Responsible Mining Pact

Dr. James McQuilken is Director of Responsible Mining at the global non-profit Pact, leading a global team of experts driving innovative, community-led solutions across mineral-producing regions. A social scientist and market systems development specialist, he has more than a decade of experience shaping policy and practice on artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), responsible sourcing, and sustainable mineral economies. 

James works with governments, global brands, mining companies, supply chain actors, and communities to design evidence-based initiatives that strengthen market systems, improve environmental performance, and elevate community voices in mineral governance. His portfolio includes mapping global supply chains across critical minerals; introducing solar energy solutions to small-scale mines in Rwanda—reducing costs by 70% and increasing women’s participation by 50%; convening high-level dialogues on modern slavery in DRC cobalt mining; and awareness raising on mercury-free technologies in gold mining. 

A leading ASM researcher, James has coauthored more than 20 publications, including the World Bank’s State of the ASM Sector Reports. He is the NGO Pillar Chair and Board Member of the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights and an Honorary Lecturer at the University of Exeter. He holds a PhD in ASM formalisation from the University of Surrey.