Today, we are honored to introduce M.Sc. Batbaatar Chimedtseren, a distinguished mining and resource sector expert with over 17 years of progressive contributions to Mongolia’s mining industry. Holding a Master of Science in Technology Management from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from the Mongolian University of Science and Technology, he has consistently demonstrated leadership in green-field mining project development, operations, and management.
Mr. Chimedtseren began his career as an engineer at Erdenes MGL LLC (now Erdenes Mongol LLC), the state-owned enterprise that oversees Mongolia's strategically significant mineral deposits. Working closely with international and Mongolian mining professionals, he was integral to the development of the Tavan Tolgoi coking coal deposit, which has since emerged as a top producer and exporter of thermal and coking coal to China. Over the years, Batbaatar has significantly shaped Mongolia’s mining sector through his expertise in project planning, integrated systems implementation, and operational optimization.
In his career trajectory, Batbaatar has not only established himself as a technical leader but also as an advocate for sustainable development through his efforts in projects like the establishment of coal briquette plants to reduce Ulaanbaatar’s air pollution.
Thank you for joining us today. You’ve had an impressive career spanning various roles in the mining industry. Let’s start our interview with your background and how did you get started in your career?
Well, I am a mechanical engineer from Mongolian University of Science and Technology and I graduated from South Dakota School of Mines at the end of 2006 as Technology Management with a master's degree. When I returned to Mongolia, I started looking for job opportunities and came across an opening at the newly established state-owned company, Erdenes MGL LLC. They were specifically looking for engineers who had studied abroad, so I applied and was lucky enough to be accepted.
Joining Erdenes MGL was a turning point in my career. The company gave me the chance to work on some of the largest and most complex mining projects in Mongolia, including the development of the Tavan Tolgoi coking coal deposit. This project exposed me to international best practices and allowed me to work alongside global experts. It was a steep learning curve, but it gave me the opportunity to take part in everything from feasibility studies to resource evaluations and project planning.
Being part of such significant projects taught me a lot—not just about engineering, but also about managing large-scale operations and collaborating across cultures. These experiences really shaped my career and gave me the foundation to contribute meaningfully to Mongolia’s mining sector. I’m grateful for the opportunity I had at Erdenes MGL to grow as a professional and work on projects that have had a lasting impact on the industry.
Since the company newly established, we have worked broadly to collect information on mineral deposits and prepare project documents and to hold license to initiate project development in line with the state’s policy and direction. One of the big project, we have moved to Tavantolgoi coking and thermal coal export project.
Your involvement in the Tavantolgoi open-pit project is noteworthy. Could you elaborate on your role and the project's outcomes?
In 2010, I led the preparation of a feasibility study for a 3 million tons per year, 10-year small-scale operation at the East Tsankhi open-pit mine. The study was approved by an independent committee, facilitating the project's successful startup. I also played a key role in analyzing exploration data, which supported early-stage decision-making and helped identify initial mining areas.
The company have made a decision to a phased approach to open-pit mining for the Tavantolgoi coal project, ensuring the project progressed incrementally based on exploration findings and resource assessments. Therefore, we have successfully started box-cut on East Tsankhi open in August 27, 2010 and year later in August 4, 2011 first coking coal shipment has commenced to export Chinese off-taker Chalco Ltd.
Collaborating with Norwest Corporation, I contributed to a comprehensive resource evaluation report, and division of greater Tsankhi coalfield into two mine operation which funded by the World Bank, laying the foundation for the project's staged development. Later on, I have coordinated and worked together with Norwest’s consultants in preparing Feasibility Study for East Tsankhi open-pit with full capacity of 15 million tons of coal output.
Transitioning to your role as Head of Mine Planning and Coordination, how did you enhance operational efficiency at the East Tsankhi mine?
As operation started, Erdenes MGL LLC established a subsidiary company and transferred the mining licenses to Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC and I have been appointed to take the position of Head of Mine planning and coordination division in March of 2011. At this position, I organized and coordinated the tendering process for contract mining, resulting in a cost-plus agreement with a consortium (Macmahon and BBM Operta), which shifted the operation from owner-operated to contractor-managed, improving operational efficiency since the Macmahon have many years of experience in mining. As part of the operational management, we established a six-member Project Control team that conducted biweekly meetings to monitor and streamline processes, reducing operational costs. Additionally, I lead and implemented successful handover protocols, ensuring a seamless transition of personnel and resources to maintain continuous, efficient operations.
Also, the Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC planned to do IPO in International stock exchange and there was big chunk of work have been done engaging International banks, law firms, accounting companies, underwriter, domestic and international stock exchange, technical advisor and etc..
As part of the staged development we have started second open-pit box-cut mining operation on West Tsankhi coalfield on September 23, 2012.
You’ve held several leadership roles over the years. Can you tell us about your work done in different managerial positions?
Of course! As the Head of the Maintenance Division, I oversee all aspects of maintaining heavy mining equipment at a large-scale mining operation. My primary focus is maximizing equipment uptime, minimizing operational disruptions, and ensuring the reliability of critical mining assets. I lead a diverse team of engineers, maintenance crews, and support staff,
One major initiative was implementing predictive and preventative maintenance programs, which significantly reduced unplanned downtime. I also introduced standardized pre-start checklists to streamline inspections and improve equipment readiness. Additionally, I spearheaded a warranty program for key equipment, ensuring timely repairs and replacements, which minimized maintenance costs. Overall, my efforts have led to an 8% reduction in maintenance costs and a 10% saving against an annual budget of $3.04 million.
I also worked as a Senior Quality Specialist, I was responsible for implementing and managing an Integrated Management System (IMS) across all operational departments, ensuring compliance with ISO standards like ISO 9001:2015 for Quality, ISO 45001:2018 for Health and Safety, and ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental management. I worked closely with an ISO consulting firm to integrate these standards into our operations, conducted internal and external audits, and trained staff on ISO requirements. This effort not only improved operational practices but also ensured compliance with export standards, which enhanced our trade reliability and reduced border delays.
Your leadership in environmental initiatives is commendable. Could you share your experience with the coal briquette manufacturing line project?
I was appointed as Head of the Tendering Committee for the construction of Mongolia's first coal briquette manufacturing line, a major environmental initiative to combat air pollution in Ulaanbaatar. Under my leadership, the project was completed on time, and the facility started producing briquettes within the same year, resulting in a significant 40% reduction in air pollution levels.
Your background also includes strategic planning and large-scale project management and worked extensively in mining operations. Can you tell us about mine operation?
The company run two large scale coal mining operation at greater Tsankhi coalfield and the majority of mining work is done by general Contract miner and subcontractors. Beginning of the 2021, we have procured 2 mining fleet to operate at East Tsankhi mine and recently we added 8 fleet to our operation. Our mine works 24 hour with two 12 hour shift and most of the site personals work 14 days on and 14 days off roster.
As Director of Mine Operations, I managed daily operations at a large open-pit coking and thermal coal mine, overseeing a workforce of around 400 personnel. I focused on meeting production targets while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. During my tenure, the mine reached an annual production of 30 million tons of coal, accounting for 40% of Mongolia's total coal exports. I also played a key role in community engagement, addressing local concerns and securing land use rights for the mine’s continued expansion.
I’ve always emphasized safety, environmental compliance, and community collaboration. For example, during my tenure as Chief Engineer, I directed the development of a comprehensive waste management system that improved environmental compliance. I’ve also worked closely with local governments to address concerns from herders impacted by mining operations, ensuring that we maintain strong community relationships while securing necessary land use rights.
One final question - what drives you to excel in such a challenging and dynamic industry?
Commodity export accounts 87 percent of all export in Mongolia, so, mining is a foundational industry that drives economic growth, and I take pride in being part of that. What drives me is the opportunity to solve complex challenges, whether it’s optimizing operations, implementing sustainable practices, or fostering collaboration within teams. Every project I’ve worked on has given me the chance to make a meaningful impact, not just on the company’s bottom line, but also on the environment and the community. That’s what keeps me motivated every day.
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey. It’s been a pleasure talking with you.
Today, we are honored to introduce M.Sc. Batbaatar Chimedtseren, a distinguished mining and resource sector expert with over 17 years of progressive contributions to Mongolia’s mining industry. Holding a Master of Science in Technology Management from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from the Mongolian University of Science and Technology, he has consistently demonstrated leadership in green-field mining project development, operations, and management.
Mr. Chimedtseren began his career as an engineer at Erdenes MGL LLC (now Erdenes Mongol LLC), the state-owned enterprise that oversees Mongolia's strategically significant mineral deposits. Working closely with international and Mongolian mining professionals, he was integral to the development of the Tavan Tolgoi coking coal deposit, which has since emerged as a top producer and exporter of thermal and coking coal to China. Over the years, Batbaatar has significantly shaped Mongolia’s mining sector through his expertise in project planning, integrated systems implementation, and operational optimization.
In his career trajectory, Batbaatar has not only established himself as a technical leader but also as an advocate for sustainable development through his efforts in projects like the establishment of coal briquette plants to reduce Ulaanbaatar’s air pollution.
Thank you for joining us today. You’ve had an impressive career spanning various roles in the mining industry. Let’s start our interview with your background and how did you get started in your career?
Well, I am a mechanical engineer from Mongolian University of Science and Technology and I graduated from South Dakota School of Mines at the end of 2006 as Technology Management with a master's degree. When I returned to Mongolia, I started looking for job opportunities and came across an opening at the newly established state-owned company, Erdenes MGL LLC. They were specifically looking for engineers who had studied abroad, so I applied and was lucky enough to be accepted.
Joining Erdenes MGL was a turning point in my career. The company gave me the chance to work on some of the largest and most complex mining projects in Mongolia, including the development of the Tavan Tolgoi coking coal deposit. This project exposed me to international best practices and allowed me to work alongside global experts. It was a steep learning curve, but it gave me the opportunity to take part in everything from feasibility studies to resource evaluations and project planning.
Being part of such significant projects taught me a lot—not just about engineering, but also about managing large-scale operations and collaborating across cultures. These experiences really shaped my career and gave me the foundation to contribute meaningfully to Mongolia’s mining sector. I’m grateful for the opportunity I had at Erdenes MGL to grow as a professional and work on projects that have had a lasting impact on the industry.
Since the company newly established, we have worked broadly to collect information on mineral deposits and prepare project documents and to hold license to initiate project development in line with the state’s policy and direction. One of the big project, we have moved to Tavantolgoi coking and thermal coal export project.
Your involvement in the Tavantolgoi open-pit project is noteworthy. Could you elaborate on your role and the project's outcomes?
In 2010, I led the preparation of a feasibility study for a 3 million tons per year, 10-year small-scale operation at the East Tsankhi open-pit mine. The study was approved by an independent committee, facilitating the project's successful startup. I also played a key role in analyzing exploration data, which supported early-stage decision-making and helped identify initial mining areas.
The company have made a decision to a phased approach to open-pit mining for the Tavantolgoi coal project, ensuring the project progressed incrementally based on exploration findings and resource assessments. Therefore, we have successfully started box-cut on East Tsankhi open in August 27, 2010 and year later in August 4, 2011 first coking coal shipment has commenced to export Chinese off-taker Chalco Ltd.
Collaborating with Norwest Corporation, I contributed to a comprehensive resource evaluation report, and division of greater Tsankhi coalfield into two mine operation which funded by the World Bank, laying the foundation for the project's staged development. Later on, I have coordinated and worked together with Norwest’s consultants in preparing Feasibility Study for East Tsankhi open-pit with full capacity of 15 million tons of coal output.
Transitioning to your role as Head of Mine Planning and Coordination, how did you enhance operational efficiency at the East Tsankhi mine?
As operation started, Erdenes MGL LLC established a subsidiary company and transferred the mining licenses to Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC and I have been appointed to take the position of Head of Mine planning and coordination division in March of 2011. At this position, I organized and coordinated the tendering process for contract mining, resulting in a cost-plus agreement with a consortium (Macmahon and BBM Operta), which shifted the operation from owner-operated to contractor-managed, improving operational efficiency since the Macmahon have many years of experience in mining. As part of the operational management, we established a six-member Project Control team that conducted biweekly meetings to monitor and streamline processes, reducing operational costs. Additionally, I lead and implemented successful handover protocols, ensuring a seamless transition of personnel and resources to maintain continuous, efficient operations.
Also, the Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC planned to do IPO in International stock exchange and there was big chunk of work have been done engaging International banks, law firms, accounting companies, underwriter, domestic and international stock exchange, technical advisor and etc..
As part of the staged development we have started second open-pit box-cut mining operation on West Tsankhi coalfield on September 23, 2012.
You’ve held several leadership roles over the years. Can you tell us about your work done in different managerial positions?
Of course! As the Head of the Maintenance Division, I oversee all aspects of maintaining heavy mining equipment at a large-scale mining operation. My primary focus is maximizing equipment uptime, minimizing operational disruptions, and ensuring the reliability of critical mining assets. I lead a diverse team of engineers, maintenance crews, and support staff,
One major initiative was implementing predictive and preventative maintenance programs, which significantly reduced unplanned downtime. I also introduced standardized pre-start checklists to streamline inspections and improve equipment readiness. Additionally, I spearheaded a warranty program for key equipment, ensuring timely repairs and replacements, which minimized maintenance costs. Overall, my efforts have led to an 8% reduction in maintenance costs and a 10% saving against an annual budget of $3.04 million.
I also worked as a Senior Quality Specialist, I was responsible for implementing and managing an Integrated Management System (IMS) across all operational departments, ensuring compliance with ISO standards like ISO 9001:2015 for Quality, ISO 45001:2018 for Health and Safety, and ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental management. I worked closely with an ISO consulting firm to integrate these standards into our operations, conducted internal and external audits, and trained staff on ISO requirements. This effort not only improved operational practices but also ensured compliance with export standards, which enhanced our trade reliability and reduced border delays.
Your leadership in environmental initiatives is commendable. Could you share your experience with the coal briquette manufacturing line project?
I was appointed as Head of the Tendering Committee for the construction of Mongolia's first coal briquette manufacturing line, a major environmental initiative to combat air pollution in Ulaanbaatar. Under my leadership, the project was completed on time, and the facility started producing briquettes within the same year, resulting in a significant 40% reduction in air pollution levels.
Your background also includes strategic planning and large-scale project management and worked extensively in mining operations. Can you tell us about mine operation?
The company run two large scale coal mining operation at greater Tsankhi coalfield and the majority of mining work is done by general Contract miner and subcontractors. Beginning of the 2021, we have procured 2 mining fleet to operate at East Tsankhi mine and recently we added 8 fleet to our operation. Our mine works 24 hour with two 12 hour shift and most of the site personals work 14 days on and 14 days off roster.
As Director of Mine Operations, I managed daily operations at a large open-pit coking and thermal coal mine, overseeing a workforce of around 400 personnel. I focused on meeting production targets while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. During my tenure, the mine reached an annual production of 30 million tons of coal, accounting for 40% of Mongolia's total coal exports. I also played a key role in community engagement, addressing local concerns and securing land use rights for the mine’s continued expansion.
I’ve always emphasized safety, environmental compliance, and community collaboration. For example, during my tenure as Chief Engineer, I directed the development of a comprehensive waste management system that improved environmental compliance. I’ve also worked closely with local governments to address concerns from herders impacted by mining operations, ensuring that we maintain strong community relationships while securing necessary land use rights.
One final question - what drives you to excel in such a challenging and dynamic industry?
Commodity export accounts 87 percent of all export in Mongolia, so, mining is a foundational industry that drives economic growth, and I take pride in being part of that. What drives me is the opportunity to solve complex challenges, whether it’s optimizing operations, implementing sustainable practices, or fostering collaboration within teams. Every project I’ve worked on has given me the chance to make a meaningful impact, not just on the company’s bottom line, but also on the environment and the community. That’s what keeps me motivated every day.
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey. It’s been a pleasure talking with you.