Charles Faria is an Executive Consultant based in Brazil, bringing over 22 years of experience in mine planning and strategic mine development across large-scale open-pit operations.

Charles has deep expertise in pit optimisation, strategic mine planning, and resource and reserve management, with a strong focus on iron ore, coal and nickel operations. His technical background includes the simulation of iron ore and coal products, contract management, and the allocation of capital investment to maximise project value.

He has held senior planning and management roles on major international mining projects valued between US$1 billion and US$15 billion, including Itabira Compact Itabirites, Carajás Expansion (+20 Mt), the S11D Truckless Project, and the Moatize Coal Mine. His work has supported both project development and operational optimisation at scale.

Charles is highly regarded for introducing and implementing innovative mining methodologies, including In Pit Crushing and Conveying (IPCC), Terrace Mining, Dozer Push, and Cast Blasting. These approaches have delivered cost reductions of 10% to 35% across multiple operations, while improving productivity and operational efficiency.

He has advanced knowledge of mine planning and pit optimisation software, including Datamine and NPVS, and extensive experience in cost management and long-term investment planning. Charles also brings a strong understanding of Brazilian iron ore deposits, supported by broad international professional and academic experience.

Charles has been a member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) since 2012.

Snowden Optiro provides advice, mining consulting, training and innovative software solutions to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors.