Khampepe

At Glencore's ferroalloys business in South Africa, Rail Operations Manager Khampepe works with rail operators to help ensure the smooth movement of minerals across the country. 

Known affectionately as the "train whisperer" by his colleagues, Khampepe manages the rail logistics that keep Glencore products such as chrome, ferrochrome and manganese moving across South Africa. "I run the rail book for Glencore for the ferroalloys business by booking trains, managing stock levels and arranging the delivery of products to ports for export,” he explains. 

Khampepe’s work involves a lot of communication with different stakeholders. He liaises with Transnet Freight Rail, South Africa's state-owned rail service provider, to coordinate train placements and to work to resolve any issues that arise.

"If I don't do my job, it will have an impact on our operations," Khampepe says. His work is important in helping Glencore to responsibly source and supply the commodities that advance everyday life.

Khampepe overcame childhood epilepsy and this experience has shaped his outlook on life and his career. On receiving his diagnosis, Khampepe was determined not to be defined by it. “There’s much more to life than my epilepsy. I believe that if you have a resilient nature, you can achieve anything.”

Looking ahead, Khampepe hopes to use his expertise to drive positive change in South Africa's rail sector by advocating for the use of new technologies. His story is inspiring to the next generation of logistics professionals, showing that with the right determination it is possible to overcome the obstacles in your way.