My Bio
Adam Lees
As a Corporate Affairs and Sustainability leader with over 30 years of global mining and government experience, Adam’s career highlights include serving as Vice President (Sustainability) at AngloGold Ashanti in Tanzania and Environment and Community Specialist at BHP in Africa. As former Chief Advisor – Indigenous Affairs, he played a central role in Indigenous Affairs at Rio Tinto Australia, focusing on reputation recovery following the tragic destruction of the ancient Juukan Gorge rock shelters in May 2020.
Adam’s expertise spans stakeholder engagement, community development, environmental and mining approvals, crisis communication, and human rights. He has a broad repertoire, having lived and worked in Africa for six years (Gabon, Ethiopia, Angola, Zambia, and Tanzania) with project work in Guinea and Liberia. Adam also lived in Samoa where he began his career as a diplomat. Adam has extensive experience on mine sites across Australia, from Mount Isa, Queensland to Mount Whaleback in Newman, in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
Adam has recently tilted into the renewable energy sector, using his extensive industry and project experience as a member of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) Advisory Panel to evaluate project proposals, offer funding recommendations, and provide strategic advice to advance Australia’s transition to renewable energy.
In addition, Adam is a nationally accredited mediator, a published author, an accomplished storyteller and powerful public speaker and presenter.
In his spare time, Adam nurtures his creative streak as a voice-over artist, a regular op-ed writer for the Koori Mail and other publications, and a photographer with internationally licensed images. An avid traveller who has visited over 65 countries, including 32 out of 54 in Africa, Adam’s formal qualifications in business communications (majoring in advertising) have provided a strong foundation for his diverse creative pursuits.
Statement Of Capability
For more in depth information, feel free to review my statement of capability.
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Our Services
What We Do
Our Name
Why ‘New Moon’?
New Moon (Aketi Meb) Consulting finds its origins deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Meriam people of Mer (Murray Island) in the eastern Torres Strait.
The term ‘Aketi Meb’ stems from the Miriam Mir language,
where it signifies the new moon or thin crescent.
This name reflects the ancestral wisdom of the Meriam people, honouring the cycles of nature and the significance of new beginnings.
It embodies the consultancy’s ethos of guiding clients through transformative phases,
harnessing opportunities for growth and renewal.
Our Work
At New Moon Consulting, we specialise in delivering comprehensive strategies and compelling narratives that drive meaningful outcomes.
Our services encompass strategic advisory and communications, executive coaching and mentoring, mediation and dispute resolution, and creative engagements.
With over 30 years of experience in Indigenous and international affairs, we bring authenticity and proven expertise to every project.
More About Our Servicesour Solutions
Why Work With Us
Choosing New Moon Consulting means partnering with a team that understands and addresses your unique challenges. We have a track record of success in navigating complex regulatory environments, securing stakeholder and environmental approvals, and engaging effectively with communities and leaders.
Our tailored solutions ensure that your projects meet compliance requirements and achieve lasting, positive impacts.
Extensive Expertise
With over 30 years in corporate affairs, sustainability, and community engagement, our breadth of experience ensures unparalleled insights and solutions.
Unique Experience
Securing project approvals, including leading and managing Environmental and Social Impact Assessments in Australia and Africa
Strong Leadership
Managed communications, social investments, and community programs at Mount Isa Mines, BHP, AngloGold Ashanti, Woodside Energy, and Rio Tinto. Led reputation recovery after Juukan Gorge, developed RAPs and Indigenous programs, and crafted sector-wide Indigenous strategies as a senior leader.
Dispute Resolution and Mentoring
Nationally accredited mediator providing effective conflict resolution and strategic mentoring to develop leadership skills and cultural insights.
