James Campbell joins Botswana Diamonds as MD

JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Aim-listed Botswana Diamonds has appointed James Campbell MD with immediate effect.

He will be based predominately in Johannesburg and will work closely with rough diamond miner Alrosa on the parties’ joint venture (JV) Orapa and Gope licences.

With over 30 years' experience of working with exploration, development and production companies, Campbell previously worked with the Botswana Diamonds directors at African Diamonds, where he was key to the discovery and development of the Karowe mine, which has transformed the supply of large, high-quality diamonds.

Following the acquisition of African Diamonds by TSX-listed Lucara Diamond, Campbell became Lucara’s new business VP, where he played a key role in developing the mine.

In recent years, as CEO of Rockwell Diamonds, he oversaw the development of a number of alluvial diamond mines in South Africa. 

He also spent over 20 years with De Beers, culminating in his role as GM for advanced exploration and resource delivery. 

"We are absolutely delighted that James has decided to join Botswana Diamonds. He worked with us previously at African Diamonds during the development stage of the Karowe mine from the AK6 discovery and he introduced Lucara to the project.

“He brings a wealth of experience and skills in the diamond industry, which I believe will help drive our JVs with Alrosa in Orapa and Gope forward. James will also work closely with our shareholders in Maibwe on the Gope discovery as we seek to expand our current portfolio of diamond exploration projects,” Botswana Diamonds chairperson John Teeling said.