Chelto Smith

Chelto Smith, known as Smitty, has extensive experience in laboratory management and quality assurance within the mining and rare earth industries. Currently serving as Chief Chemist at Lynas Rare Earths Ltd since December 2015, Chelto has been instrumental in designing and managing the laboratory at the new Lynas Cracking and Leaching Facility in Kalgoorlie, WA, while also overseeing production reporting systems and product finishing. Prior roles include consultancy on laboratory operations, principal consulting for intelligent mining solutions at Ventyx, and quality assurance management at Lonmin Platinum, where Chelto successfully implemented quality standards and change management programs. Educational credentials include a National Higher Diploma in Assay and Analytical Science from the University of Johannesburg.