Clarence J. Roberts is a distinguished corporate and commercial management professional with over 16 years of specialized experience in strategic leadership, legal compliance, and contract management. Known for his versatile approach and unwavering commitment to integrity and results, Clarence brings a pragmatic focus to every role he undertakes, enhancing the core vision and values of the organizations he serves. His background spans international sectors, notably in mining, construction, and agriculture, where his insights into corporate law, risk management, and stakeholder relations drive impactful outcomes.
Clarence’s legal acumen and commercial insight position him as a key advisor at the executive level. He is highly skilled in drafting, evaluating, and negotiating complex contracts and agreements, a skill that has proven invaluable in projects of significant proportions. His dedication to corporate compliance and risk management allows him to anticipate and mitigate potential issues before they arise, making him an invaluable asset to any board or advisory committee. His background includes roles that required direct oversight of large-scale projects, where his guidance helped save companies millions through strategic planning and effective risk mitigation.
Currently, Clarence serves as the Director of Legal and Financial Services at Khoinam (Pty) Ltd, a prominent diamond mining company. In this role, he provides strategic legal advice and manages the company’s compliance and claims functions, particularly for the Alexkor RMC JV mining project. Here, Clarence has implemented contract strategies, drafted key agreements, and allocated resources to ensure the project operates smoothly and meets both corporate and regulatory standards. His efforts have strengthened corporate governance and workplace safety, with measurable results in project efficiency and compliance.
Previously, Clarence held senior roles at Bechtel Engineering Services and Securiguard/Gardaworld, where he managed complex claims and risk assessments. At Bechtel, he played a pivotal role in the Kitimat Aluminum Modernization Project, where he collaborated with multiple contractors and project management teams to resolve disputes, ensure adherence to project milestones, and implement risk mitigation strategies. His ability to oversee high-stakes projects with precision and diplomatic skill earned him the trust and respect of his peers and clients alike.
Clarence’s legal background is bolstered by his experience in South Africa, where he served as a Judge/Magistrate and Crown/Public Prosecutor. These foundational roles allowed him to hone his expertise in criminal and civil law, preparing him to navigate complex regulatory environments and effectively advocate for legal compliance within corporate structures. His experience in these roles instilled a profound respect for the law and a commitment to fairness, both of which continue to inform his work today.
A highly motivated problem-solver, Clarence excels in environments that require swift decision-making and adaptability. He has demonstrated a keen ability to manage cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and teamwork to meet tight deadlines and challenging objectives. His strategic insights and people-centered approach have proven essential in ensuring organizational objectives are met while maintaining a positive, constructive atmosphere among colleagues and stakeholders.
Clarence is an exceptional communicator, known for his clear, concise, and confident approach to complex issues. His proficiency in both written and verbal communication allows him to simplify intricate legal and operational matters, making him a valuable advisor to senior executives and boards. Fluent in English and Afrikaans, he has international experience in Canada and South Africa, further enhancing his adaptability to diverse legal and business environments.
Beyond his professional commitments, Clarence is passionate about continuous learning and personal growth. He enjoys hiking, reading, and traveling, pursuits that fuel his drive for innovation and self-improvement. As a board member of a mining company and a trustee in farming and investments, he actively contributes to strategic decision-making and long-term planning, using his knowledge and skills to promote organizational resilience and growth.
Clarence holds an MBA in General Management from the University of the Free State, South Africa, and has earned a Certificate of Qualification from UBC Law Faculty. He is admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of South Africa. These credentials, coupled with his extensive experience, make him uniquely qualified to provide strategic and legal counsel at the highest levels of corporate governance.
Character:
Clarence is defined by a strong sense of integrity and professionalism, building trust and respect across every level of his work. His commitment to ethical leadership and fair practices consistently fosters a reliable and supportive environment.
Knowledge:
With extensive expertise in corporate law, contract management, and compliance, Clarence brings a wealth of knowledge to his advisory roles. His in-depth understanding of regulatory landscapes and industry best practices ensures that organizations operate efficiently and responsibly.
Strategic:
Clarence approaches each challenge with foresight and a keen strategic perspective, effectively managing risks to enhance corporate resilience. His experience in leading complex projects and negotiations enables him to drive growth and optimize outcomes.
Communication:
A skilled communicator, Clarence excels in simplifying complex legal and business concepts, making them accessible and actionable. His clear, direct approach fosters productive dialogue and collaboration, ensuring alignment among diverse stakeholders.
