Diksha Pillay

Background

I have BScEng degree in Chemical Eng (University of Witwatersand), a Masters in Mechanical Eng (SU), Management Development Programme (UP), Project Finance (IAF) and Artificial Intelligence (MIT) . Completed multiple certifications across the technical and governance spectrum ranging from Data Privacy, Corporate Governance, King IV, Microsoft Azure, GBS DataRobot.

Experience

Over the past 10 years I have grown into a dynamic peak performer with the ability to transcend into any role, from engineer to innovator. My career began in 2010 as a Professional in Training (PIT) in Exxaro's Growth Department that became Cennergi. During this time a multitude of projects ranging from concept studies to pilot plants was part of my portfolio. In 2016 I was Lead of Digital and Innovation and executed multiple digital initiatives. The competitive skills gained were Portfolio Management, Project and Performance Management, Strategy Formulation, Technical, Analytical Financial and Funding Modelling, Change and Service Management and Governance, Risk and Compliance in Energy, Water and ITC sectors. Elected as member of Exxaro’s junior board and served on the board South African Centre for Carbon Capture and Storage. During 2015 was an active participant as a reference member of the Water Research Commission guiding the research activities undertaking by corporate sponsorship. In 2017 I was selected as the technical council at DTI responsible for the fund allocation to SPII and Thrip programmes. Served on Exxaro’s ESD committee for two (2) years. I have managed global teams with performance, coaching and skills development. I recently completed and executed strategies for Innovation, Business of Tomorrow and Sustainability for Exxaro and Anglo American through my relentless strategic and resourcefulness ambitions I am most proud of :

• Establishing RPA Coe – with ROI $1 million at Exx

• Acquiring $3.5 million global patented water pipe leak repair solution. This new company supports local skills development in Water sector and Battery storage investment to $750k.

• Part of commercialisation of renewables up to 300 MW for IPP in 2012.

• Winner of a $5000 grant for the AFG project with Connected Future to roll out Stem in rural schools

Awards:

Mail and Guardian Top Young South African 2019

Standard Bank Top Young Woman Achiever 2020

Passion Vista Most Admired Global Indian 2021.