Howlin Dave Cezar

Cezar, a distinguished recipient of the prestigious Dept of Science and Technology (DOST) and Sumitomo scholarships, is an accomplished metallurgist with fourteen years of transformative experience in plant commissioning, process engineering, plant operations, and business growth initiatives. His relentless pursuit of excellence has redefined the landscape of nickeliferous mineral extraction and laterite commercial production.

As Account Manager for ME-Elecmetal Australia Pty Ltd, Cezar has driven significant business growth and enhanced market presence across Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea, resulting in a 23% average milling operations performance improvement for clients. His strategic leadership has been pivotal in capturing new markets and delivering exceptional client outcomes.

At B2Gold Corp.’s Masbate Gold Project, Cezar optimized operational and process efficiencies, achieving a 26% improvement in overall grinding circuit efficiency. His ability to streamline operations and enhance productivity demonstrates his adeptness at driving performance improvements in high-stakes environments.

At Apex Mining Corp., Cezar managed mill operations, consistently meeting monthly throughput, recovery, and gold-ounce budgets while minimizing unplanned plant downtime. His leadership ensured operational stability and achieved key performance targets, showcasing his expertise in operational management.

During his tenure at Coral Bay Nickel Corp., Cezar diagnosed and rectified design flaws, significantly improving pH control in pre-neutralization and increasing daily production output. He also enhanced the skills of shift personnel in process control and plant operation through dedicated training and mentorship, underscoring his commitment to workforce development and operational excellence.

As an Accredited Competent Person in Metallurgical Engineering by the Philippine Mineral Reporting Code Committee (PMRCC) and certified by the Engineering Institute of Canada, Cezar excels in evaluating economic and performance efficiency. His expertise spans process engineering and optimization of various mineral processing techniques, including crushing, milling and classification circuits, leaching, refining, and detoxification. Serving as Vice-President and Director of the Society of Metallurgical Engineers of the Philippines (SMEP), he has spearheaded significant advancements in the field.

Cezar’s leadership in comminution circuit surveys achieved a remarkable improvement in overall process efficiency. He co-headed metallurgical laboratory upgrades, establishing a standard test program crucial for life-of-mine ore reserve estimation and plant ore feed performance simulations. His proficiency in the High-Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL) process for nickel and cobalt extraction has set industry benchmarks. He has led projects for the recovery of entrapped gold in refinery smelting slags, showcasing his ability to innovate and optimize processes. His expertise in commissioning activities for grinding, classification, Carbon-In-Leach (CIL), and water treatment plants has been instrumental in achieving operational excellence.

Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical Engineering and a Diploma in Materials Science Engineering Technology from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, Cezar's educational journey is adorned with scholarships and accolades. His certifications include being an Accredited Competent Person (ACP) in Metallurgical Engineering and expertise in management systems and process performance analysis. Cezar’s extensive skill set ranges from HPAL process operation to thickening systems, counter-current decantation, pump sizing, and failure modes analysis. His technical proficiency is matched by his ability to lead and inspire, driving projects to success and setting new standards in the industry.

Cezar brings a unique blend of technical expertise, strategic leadership, and operational excellence to any organization. His track record of driving performance improvements, optimizing processes, and leading high-impact projects positions him as a valuable asset capable of steering organizations toward achieving operational success and setting new industry standards. With a strong background in metallurgical engineering and a proven ability to enhance operational efficiencies, Cezar is well-equipped to lead and inspire teams toward achieving organizational goals and continuous improvement.

Cezar's journey is a testament to innovation, expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence in nickeliferous mineral extraction and laterite commercial production. His story is one of visionary leadership, transformative achievements, and a legacy that continues to shape the future of metallurgical engineering.