Ma’aden, Saudi Arabia’s leading mining company, has named Donovan Waller as Chief Technology Officer, a move designed to accelerate its digital transformation and reinforce its global leadership. Waller brings over 30 years of international experience in industrial technology, with a strong background in applied research, artificial intelligence, and automation.
Under Waller’s guidance, Ma’aden is intensifying its focus on advanced technologies. Key initiatives include AI-powered exploration, partnerships for autonomous mining robots, and predictive maintenance systems. According to company sources, these efforts are expected to improve exploration efficiency, minimize risks, and tap into new mineral resources. Internally, Ma’aden’s adoption of AI tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot has saved approximately 2,200 hours each month, allowing employees to focus on strategic projects and supporting the company’s aim to triple its workforce without a proportional increase in staff.
Financially, Ma’aden has demonstrated strong performance. In the first half of 2025, the company reported SAR 17.93 billion in revenue, up 23% year-on-year, with EBITDA reaching SAR 7.25 billion and net profit surging 73% to SAR 3.47 billion, according to company reports. The Phosphate Business Unit secured a major five-year supply deal with Indian fertilizer producers, while the Aluminum Business Unit achieved 24% sales growth. Planned capital expenditures for the year range from SAR 7.55 billion to 9.55 billion, with most funds directed toward growth projects like expanding phosphate fertilizer capacity and pioneering lithium extraction from seawater.
Strategic Partnerships and Global Expansion
Ma’aden is also strengthening its global position through strategic partnerships. A collaboration with U.S.-based MP Materials aims to build a rare earth supply chain in Saudi Arabia, supporting the growing demand for materials vital to electric vehicles and renewable energy. The company’s full acquisition of Alcoa’s stakes in its aluminum subsidiaries further consolidates its control over the value chain, enhancing flexibility in a volatile market.
These strategies are closely aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to make mining the Kingdom’s third economic pillar. Ma’aden’s investments in AI, automation, and sustainable practices—such as carbon-neutral ammonia production and a large-scale tree planting initiative—demonstrate its commitment to environmental, social, and governance standards.
For investors, Ma’aden stands out for its blend of technological innovation, solid financials, and alignment with global sustainability trends. Important indicators to watch include EBITDA margins, returns on capital projects, and continued gains from AI adoption. With Donovan Waller as CTO, Ma’aden is positioned to lead the sector’s technological evolution, supporting both Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification and the global shift toward green energy.
