The 56-year-old head of the Saudi Arabian diversified miner was interviewed for the "Mining Journal Global Leadership Report: Preparing for transformation" being published later this month.

Ma'aden was formed in 1997 to develop the country's mineral resources. It was government owned until 10 years ago when 50% of its shares were floated on the Saudi Stock Exchange.

Al-Madaifer said the company had grown significantly since then and had prioritised agility and digitisation.

He foresees a number of challenges ahead that could also present opportunities.

"I believe there are five fundamental forces that are leading to the emergence of a new mining and manufacturing transformation," he said.

"What they have in common is they are forcing major change for mining companies."

Al-Mudaifer was also appointed deputy minister of energy, industry and mineral resources for mining affairs earlier this month.

This is based on an interview with Ma'aden president and CEO Khalid Bin Saleh Al-Mudaifer as part of the ‘Mining Journal Global Leadership Report: Preparing for transformation', which will be published in late June. The report features around 20 in-depth interviews with the industry's leading mining executives and the results of our industry-wide survey focused on transformational influences (technology, stakeholder engagement etc) and the readiness of mining leaders to meet these challenges.