IoD Wales Member Spotlight – Monthly Feature
Each month, we’re shining a light on one of our inspiring IoD Wales members—starting with those who were recognised at the Wales Director of the Year Awards 2025.
This series is all about celebrating leadership, sharing insights, and showcasing the diverse journeys of directors and decision-makers across Wales. Whether they’ve won awards, led innovative projects, or made a meaningful impact in their communities, we’re proud to tell their stories.
Steven Pearce, Technical Director, Mine Environment Management
Award: International Director of the Year
1. Tell us a bit about yourself—what do you do, and which award did you win at the Wales Director of the Year Awards 2025?
Aside from being an ultra trail runner and a Dad, I am a professional geoscientist and Technical Director of MEM. I work with the team at MEM mostly in the global mining industry as a consultant on projects related to environmental management of mine sites and mine waste. I also lead ongoing scientific research related to carbon capture and water treatment in the mining context. I won the International Director Award.
2. What does winning this award mean to you personally and professionally?
Personally winning the award means a lot to me because starting, growing and running an international mining based business from the UK (which has no significant mining industry left) has its challenges so it is gratifying to receive this recognition.
Running a business like this is also not just about achieving personal “successes” since it’s a team effort so it also means a lot that this award is a reflection of the strength of team MEM. Professionally winning the award means a lot to me since I hope it is a reflection of the ethos of the company, and vindication of the core values that MEM is built on.
3. What advice would you give to other directors striving for excellence in leadership?
One of MEM’s key values is to “lead not follow” and I think this is a key starting point for achieving excellence. Ultimately leadership means making decisions and the easy path is to make these decisions based on following others. It is harder to take the other untrodden path, to deal with the uncertainty of doing what others are not, but soon enough you turn around and find you are the one being followed.
4. How has your involvement with the IoD supported your journey as a business leader?
Much like MEM operates as a supportive team for its staff, the IoD provides the supportive “team” for directors. This is important as it can feel like, as a director, you are on your own, but being part of the IoD gives you as a director the same team environment.
Check back next month as we continue to celebrate the outstanding leaders shaping the future of Welsh business.
