We recently had the privilege of interviewing Jonathan D. Cordero, CEO of Saudi Gold Refinery. As an experienced executive and investor with over 14 years of leadership in strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and general management across heavy industry and natural resources, Jonathan D. Cordero currently leads the refinery’s operations. The refinery explores the regulatory landscape while ensuring operational excellence and sustainable growth. In this insightful session, Jonathan shares the beginning of his career, experience, and presence of the company in the region, and offers suggestions for aspiring professionals in this industry.
Career Background Of Jonathan D. Cordero
We started the interview, “Can you please provide us with some information about yourself, including your early life and education?”
Jonathan D. Cordero shared, “I’m a blend of cultures: half-Spanish, half-Austrian, but I spent nearly all my youth in Germany, in an industrial city but in the wine-growing region south of Frankfurt. It was an interesting place to grow up, multicultural and diverse bringing people from a lot of different backgrounds together — qualities that have been adopted that have proven surprisingly useful in my career.
I pursued my education in business administration across several places—Leipzig, Bayreuth, Barcelona, and even Gurgaon near Delhi. Each of these locations shaped my perspective in unique ways. After university, I started my career in strategy consulting, focusing on value-creation programs in transactional contexts, particularly within heavy industries. It was a natural fit for me—complex challenges, tangible results, and a global stage to work on.”
Presence Of Saudi Gold Refinery
To learn more about the presence of Jonathan’s company, we asked, “Could you tell us about your company and its presence in your region?”
Jonathan D. Cordero shared, “I’m currently the CEO of Saudi Gold Refinery, headquartered in Riyadh. The company is one of Saudi Arabia’s main gold-producing and refining enterprises, and we’re experiencing rapid growth in the exploration space. I’d even go as far as to say we’re among the fastest-growing mining companies globally, which, of course, is no small claim.
What makes our work particularly exciting is the unique geology of Saudi Arabia and the opening up of the Kingdom under Vision 2030. It’s a catalyst for growth, innovation, and new opportunities. We operate with several hundred people on the ground and are actively exploring expansion options in other promising regions around the world.”
On Becoming A Successful Leader
We further asked, “In your opinion, what qualities make a successful leader in your industry?”
“Mining is a long game—sometimes it takes over a decade to go from discovery to production. A successful leader in this space needs the ability to think long-term while also managing the short-term firefighting that comes with complex projects. This duality is crucial: strategic vision combined with a hands-on approach to solving bottlenecks and delivering high-quality results quickly.
Calculated risk-taking is another cornerstone. Our industry operates under constant uncertainty — geological, economic, and geopolitical. You have to develop a strong sense of evaluating risks and rewards, but equally important is the ability to take people along with you. The industry is inherently global and diverse, so effective communication across cultures and disciplines is key.” Jonathan D. Cordero added.
Adaptability To Digital Advancements
Fast-paced digital transformation has redefined the way businesses perform. So, we asked, “How has your organization responded to the ongoing digital revolution and tech-driven changes?”
Jonathan D. Cordero shared, “The mining industry is often seen as slow to change, and for good reason. When you’re managing critical supply chains and multi-billion-dollar operations, the stakes are high, and the room for error is small. However, the pressure to adopt technology is mounting, especially with rising costs, inflation, and geopolitical complexities.
At Saudi Gold Refinery, we take a pragmatic approach. I’m not a fan of large-scale, transformational innovation programs. Instead, I prefer targeted, “surgical” interventions that bring measurable value quickly. For example, we’ve integrated specific technologies to improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance exploration efforts. It’s about identifying what’s feasible and impactful, rather than jumping on every new trend.
That said, the industry as a whole is coming around to the idea that technological adoption isn’t just a competitive advantage—it’s a necessity for survival.”
Message To Beginners
We ended the interview by asking, “What advice would you give to someone just starting in your field?”
“Don’t underestimate the impact you can have in this industry. Mining might not have the glamour of tech or the appeal of other sectors, but it’s at the core of solving some of humanity’s biggest challenges, including climate change. My previous boss once joked that we’re like the “people from the dark side of the moon,” hidden away and misunderstood. But things are changing.
Mining is pro-climate. Without the materials we extract—lithium, nickel, cobalt, and more—there’s no global energy transition, no EV revolution, and no net-zero goals. So if you’re passionate about making a difference, this industry offers a platform to create real, tangible change.
Finally, embrace complexity. This is not a straightforward industry, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. Take ownership, solve problems, and don’t be afraid to take responsibility. The opportunities for growth, impact, and learning are unparalleled.” Jonathan D. Cordero concluded.
Follow Jonathan D. Cordero on LinkedIn.
Also Read: Rawad Al-Sakakiny: Inspiring The Journey Of Growth For Startups Woh Addresses Investments
Redefining Businesses With AI And Smart Solutions With Simple Complex Solutions: Robert Braxton
