He replaces Dan Clifford, who has taken up the role of chief executive at Solid Energy.

Allan managed Ulan no.3 from 2005 to 2007 in a mining career that spans more than 30 years.

His most recent position was mine manager at Glencore’s West Wallsend colliery.

Allan told local media his focus in his new role would be on efficiency across all three of the Ulan mines, as well as maintaining safety and productivity at a high level while keeping control of costs.

In one of his first tasks as GM Allan held a meeting with the Mudgee4Doctors program, which is sponsored by the mine, where he acknowledged the great importance of keeping Ulan’s 900 workers fit and healthy.

He said Ulan’s large and experienced workforce was a huge asset in an industry that had become accustomed to transient staff.