For Pulane Gumbi, two decades in mining have reinforced an enduring belief: in an industry defined by complexity, people remain the greatest enabler of sustainable success. Technology, systems and strategy only create value through the capability and commitment of the people who bring them to life.

As Group Human Resources (HR) Director at IMT, an integrated productivity and safety solutions partner, Gumbi plays a vital role in building the teams, skills and culture supporting the company’s growth and transformation.  

From Payroll to Executive Leadership

Gumbi began her career in payroll, where she developed a practical understanding of the employee lifecycle and the operational foundations of a business. She later moved into learning and development, leading skills initiatives and helping employees grow through training and career opportunities.

“I was drawn to human resources because I saw how learning and development can change people’s lives,” she says. “It is rewarding to watch individuals gain confidence, develop new skills and realise their potential.”

That passion led her into broader HR leadership and ultimately to her current role. Along the way, she balanced full-time work with furthering her qualifications, an experience that strengthened her discipline, resilience and determination.

“Working while studying challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and continuously strive for improvement.”

Leadership Grounded in Operational Reality

Mining’s demanding, high-pressure environment has taught Gumbi to be adaptable, resilient and confident, particularly as a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated sector.

Her leadership remains grounded in the operational realities of the business. By working closely with engineers, technicians and service teams delivering solutions on mine sites, often under challenging conditions, she has developed a deep appreciation of what drives performance, engagement and organisational resilience.

She also recognises the value of mentorship and credits leaders including IMT CEO Gert J. Roselt and training and development manager Simon Skhosana with contributing to her development. Guided by integrity, discipline, drive and commitment, Gumbi has focused on creating an environment in which people can thrive.

A Legacy Measured in Careers

Gumbi regards the growth of others as one of her proudest achievements. Through IMT’s apprenticeship, internship, learnership, bursary and skills development programmes, she has helped create pathways for people to build skills and progress in their careers. Since she joined IMT in 2019, over 184 people have directly benefited from these programmes, including 93 bursary holders.

She highlights some of the women she has seen leap ahead. Promise Magongoe progressed from HR learner to HR assistant, HR administrator and ultimately HR business partner, supported through IMT’s learnership and bursary programmes. Chrestinah Ngobeni advanced from lab coordinator to warehouse supervisor, junior project coordinator and now group project coordinator. Bongekile Goqo developed from procurement intern to imports specialist.

“My legacy is creating opportunities for diverse talent to grow into leadership roles and ensuring that IMT is led by capable, inclusive leaders who can shape its future,” Gumbi says.

For her, empowerment extends beyond representation targets. It requires continuous learning, coaching, recognition and meaningful opportunities for growth. Real progress happens when women do not simply participate, but lead, influence decisions and help shape the future of the industry.

IMT’s brand promise, “Turning complexity into certainty”, resonates strongly with Gumbi. While technology and systems provide the foundation, certainty is ultimately delivered by capable and committed people who can perform under pressure.

“Behind every solution, integration and successful outcome is a team of people making it happen,” she says. “A shared purpose and identity give people something to believe in.”

Having experienced IMT’s transformation from within, Gumbi sees its rebrand as the visible expression of a journey already underway—one defined by stronger governance, enhanced capability and a clearer sense of purpose.

The Next Generation

This Women’s Month, Gumbi’s message to young women aspiring to leadership is clear: “You are the author of your life and the driver of your own success. Be confident in your journey. Every challenge you overcome and every step you take is shaping the leader you are meant to become.”

It is a message reflected in her own journey and in the careers of the people she continues to develop.