105: The Hidden Lever in Mine Planning

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro, Executive Consultant Ian Glacken interviews Senior Mining Consultant Pedro Ladeira on a topic that's often overlooked—but critically important: fixed costs in strategic mine planning.   This podcast at a glance: 00:00 – Introduction: Why fixed costs matter in mine planning 01:00 – How variable costs are typically applied in mine plans 02:20 – What are conditional fixed costs and why they matter 03:50 – Impact of fixed costs on strategic planning and scheduling 05:10 – Reclaiming low-grade stockpiles and the role of fixed cost reduction 06:30 – Fixed vs variable costs in processing plants 07:45 – Stockpiling strategy and mine life optimisation 08:50 – When to start accounting for fixed costs in planning 09:30 – Final thoughts: Using fixed costs to optimise your NPV   This is a must-listen for anyone involved in mine planning, financial modelling, or operational strategy.   If you would like to contact Pedro or Ian: [email protected]   🔔 Subscribe for more Fresh Thinking on mining strategy, geology, and resource optimisation.   Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors.   We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves.   Find out more at https://snowdenoptiro.com https://snowdenoptiro.com/professional-development/   #MinePlanning #MiningStrategy #FixedCosts #NPV #MiningPodcast #SnowdenOptiro #FreshThinking