Moult has over 30 years’ global coal mining experience, qualifying as a mining engineer in 1979 and subsequently obtaining an MBA from Nottingham University in the United Kingdom.

He spent nine years as a mine manager with British Coal and RJB Mining PLC (now UK Coal PLC). In 1995 he moved to Pittsburgh USA as global business development manager for Joy Mining Machinery, with responsibility for the US, UK, RSA and Australia.

Moult joined Centennial Coal in 1998 as its general manager operations and assumed the role of chief operating officer in 2004. In July last year, he was appointed managing director and chief executive officer of the company.

NSW Minerals Council chief executive Stephen Galilee congratulated Moult on his new role, which comes into effect on January 1.

He also thanked outgoing chairman Buffier for his leadership over the past three years. Buffier will remain on the executive committee.

“As Mick Buffier’s appointed time as chairman draws to a close, I extend my gratitude to him for his first-class contribution and look forward to working closely with David Moult as we represent the interests of our member companies and the broader NSW minerals industry,” Galilee said.

Moult said he was pleased to have the opportunity to lead the NSW Minerals Council, whose membership comprises 100 mineral explorers, producers and associated service providers in NSW.

“I look forward to helping steer a straight course for the NSW minerals industry through what no doubt promises to be a challenging period ahead,” Moult said.

“Our sector promotes the highest standards in environmental management, community engagement and health and safety, and is always innovating to minimise the impacts of mining on the community and the environment.

“I will work hard to support a diverse economy where a range of industries can grow and an effective regulatory framework is in place, so we can continue to operate effectively as an industry.”