Company Description
At AKW Consultants, we are catalysts for advancement and growth. We have emerged as a dynamic consultancy that integrates global vision, unparalleled subject matter expertise, and deep local expertise to redefine responsible business practices. Specializing in compliance, sustainability, and governance within the metals and minerals value chain, AKW Consultants operates at the intersection of innovation and integrity, offering transformative solutions to our clients across the globe.
We understand that compliance is not a box to be checked; it is an opportunity to build lasting value. With a dedicated team of over 80 specialists, our strength lies in our ability to turn challenges into opportunitiesensuring that our clients not only meet regulatory demands but set new benchmarks for responsible sourcing and sustainability.
Our journey is marked by our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible. We are more than just consultants; we are thought leaders and strategists, with our fingers on the pulse of industry trends. Our expertise extends from the strategic discussions in the boardrooms of global conglomerates to the hands-on implementation in the heart of operational environments. We bring a holistic, 360-degree perspective to every projectmarrying deep technical knowledge with a nuanced understanding of governance, risk, and compliance. This approach allows us to craft bespoke strategies that align with each client's unique vision and commercial objectives. We don't just deliver advice; we deliver measurable impact.
Rooted in the principles of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct, AKW Consultants stands as a guiding force, providing expert advice in compliance, responsible sourcing, and sustainabilitydriving impactful change and setting new benchmarks within these domains. And as the world shifts towards a circular economy, we are uniquely positioned to help businesses embrace sustainability at every level of their operations.
From initial diagnostic assessments to audit readiness, AKW Consultants is committed to walking with our clients every step of the way, embedding best practices that resonate not only today but for years to come. Our work isn't finished once the audit is completedit is only the beginning of a journey towards continuous improvement, resilience, and leadership in responsible sourcing.
This is the essence of AKW Consultants: a firm that doesn't just respond to industry standards, but anticipates them, helping forward-thinkingbusinesses lead the way in a rapidly changing world.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive supply chain audits in alignment with the OECD Five-Step Framework, ISO 9001 (Quality Management Systems), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management Systems), ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems), and other relevant industry programs.
- Carry out on-site inspections of mines (ASM & LSM), traders, refiners, exporters, and other entities across the supply chain to assess operational practices and compliance.
- Evaluate company management systems, reviewing the structure, policies, procedures, and operational controls supporting responsible sourcing and compliance.
- Assess the adequacy of policy frameworks, governance and accountability structures, supplier management processes, grievance mechanisms, record-keeping systems, and the effectiveness of training, monitoring, and supplier engagement programs.
- Interview key stakeholders, including mine workers, local communities, cooperatives, suppliers, transporters, and security personnel, to validate practices and gather independent insights.
- Verify the implementation of operational controls, including quality assurance measures, environmental and waste management practices, health and safety protocols, emergency preparedness, and documented procedures.
- Review traceability and chain-of-custody systems, confirming accurate documentation of the mine of origin, transport routes, payments to authorities or other actors, and the identification of intermediaries, consolidators, and exporters.
- Perform detailed risk assessments by mapping supply chain activities, identifying potential risks in extraction, trading, and export, and evaluating supplier risk profiles.
- Prepare high-quality, evidence-based audit reports outlining findings, non-conformities, corrective action plans (CAPs), and risk-mitigation timelines.
- Guide companies in developing and implementing measurable risk-mitigation plans, ensuring progressive improvement and effective compliance outcomes.
- Participate in recognized industry programs such as LBMA, RMAP, and UAE Good Delivery, contributing to assurance activities and industry-wide due diligence efforts.
- Support companies in achieving certifications, validations, and monitoring requirements, including preparation for external audits and compliance reviews.
- Monitor emerging regulations, international standards, and industry best practices, ensuring audits and client recommendations remain current and robust.
- Deliver training and awareness programs for internal teams and clients to enhance understanding of responsible sourcing, compliance practices, and management system requirements.
Desired Skills and Competencies
Technical Competencies
- Strong understanding of OECD Due Diligence Guidance, Quality Management Systems, Environmental Management Systems, and Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems
- Knowledge of supply chain operations in sectors such as Mining, Metals and minerals, Manufacturing, Logistics, and commodities trading
- Familiarity with ESG frameworks, sustainability reporting, and responsible sourcing expectations.
- Ability to review and interpret:
- SOPs, risk assessments, and process flows
- Customer due diligence files
- Chain of custody documentations
- Licenses and permissions
- Environmental permits, waste logs, and monitoring data
- Workplace safety documentation
- Quality testing and inspection records
Analytical & Audit Skills
- Strong investigative and forensic interviewing abilities.
- Ability to identify inconsistencies, fraudulent documentation, and misrepresented origin risks.
- Advanced report-writing and risk assessment capabilities.
- Ability to triangulate information from documents, interviews, and field observations.
Soft Skills
- High ethical standards, professional skepticism, and independence.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Ability to work in challenging environments, including conflict-affected regions.
- Cultural sensitivity, diplomacy, and professionalism.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Environmental Science, Economics, Supply Chain, Sustainability, International Development, Supply Chain, Law, Geology, or a related field.
- Experience in supply chain auditing, responsible sourcing, ESG, or compliance.
- Certifications such as Lead Auditor (ISO 19011, ISO 9001, ISO 14001), CFE, CAMS, ACCA, CFA, or equivalent certification (Preferred)
- Ability to travel internationallyincluding to high-risk jurisdictionswhen required.
