Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role in the company?
My name is Paolo Palma Torriani, I am 33 years old and have a beautiful family with my partner and our daughter. I am a Metallurgical Civil Engineer from Universidad Católica del Norte and have nearly ten years of experience in the mining industry.
For the past 7 years I have been part of ME Elecmetal, where I currently serve as Commercial Deputy Manager for the Northern Zone, leading a diverse team that combines fresh perspectives with solid experience. My responsibility is to develop and implement the commercial strategy for the region and ensure the achievement of our objectives.
But beyond the results, my focus is on developing talent, creating an autonomous team, and building a culture that allows us to solve complex problems, always emphasizing safety and generating sustainable value for our clients. Today we are working on standardizing our way of operating to further elevate the quality of our service.
What brought you to ME Elecmetal?
At the end of 2017, I was working as a Trainee Engineer at a mining industry supplier company. My role was mainly technical, supporting the commercial area. During a technical visit, I met who would later become my boss and mentor at ME Elecmetal. In a hallway, almost passing by, and discussing the progress of a maintenance, he told me a phrase that would shape my vision: “you have a good knowledge of the grinding process”
Weeks later, he offered me to join as Sales Engineer in Calama, a challenge that allowed me to combine my technical knowledge with the commercial world. That opportunity transformed my way of seeing the industry: I was able to generate value for clients from a more comprehensive business perspective.
Over time, my leaders shaped and enhanced my commercial skills, subtly but consistently preparing me to take on greater responsibilities. That trust was fundamental for my growth.
How would you describe the culture at ME Elecmetal?
ME Elecmetal has a culture deeply oriented towards people and at the same time firmly committed to the customer. Solving complex challenges collaboratively is part of the company’s DNA. We believe in continuous improvement, learning from mistakes, and creating safe spaces where making errors is a natural part of growth.
Additionally, hybrid work has allowed me to balance work and family life, which is very important to me.
Benefits and Personal Life
What I value most is that at ME Elecmetal people are truly at the center of decisions. In challenging times, support is felt at all levels, and there is a genuine commitment to care for each other, support one another, and grow together.
I also highlight that we are a global company, with presence in China, South Africa, Peru, and the United States, among others. That network not only opens opportunities for collaboration but also for learning.
In my case, I was part of the Outstanding Program, which allowed me to travel to North America, visit facilities, share methodologies, and further understand the international impact and projection we have as a team.
Can you share a memorable experience or achievement in your work here?
One of the most significant achievements was developing a tailor-made solution for a client we had not been able to work with for years. After a long period of effort and perseverance, a concrete opportunity arose.
The challenge was enormous: increase the SAG mill’s lifespan by nearly 50% and implement the solution within a very tight timeframe. The project involved multiple areas — commercial, engineering, planning, plant, and logistics — all aligned under a common purpose.
The result not only met expectations but strengthened the relationship with the client and demonstrated our ability to innovate and respond with excellence. It was a milestone that marked a before and after, reminding us of the importance of resilience, preparation, and cross-functional collaboration.
“I have experienced a culture enriched by mentors and leaders who trust, support, and challenge you. They push you to be prepared, to think of alternative scenarios, and to strengthen critical thinking. That spirit — human, demanding, and formative — is one of the strongest hallmarks of our organization that helps us be capable of solving complex problems and meeting our clients’ needs.”
How does your team contribute to solving challenges in mining?
Our way of working is based on being present on site, understanding the real conditions and challenges of each operation. From that closeness, we co-create solutions and become an active part of the client’s strategy.
We operate with a backup and mentoring scheme, where those with more experience act as coaches for those who are newly integrated. This ensures operational continuity, agility in response, and a learning culture that multiplies.
Thanks to this model, we have led initiatives in automation, incorporation of new materials, and digitalization processes, contributing to the advancement of an industry that is in constant transformation.
What draws your attention about the coming years at ME Elecmetal?
What motivates me most is seeing my team grow, replicating the same mentoring culture that marked my path.
And above all, I am excited that at ME Elecmetal the future is not written: we are the ones who build it. Every client visit, every meeting, and every conversation is an opportunity to create the new standard in mining.
Years ago, it was unthinkable that a liner change could be done with robots, and today it is a reality. That pioneering spirit reflects our commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
The future of ME Elecmetal is an open space, full of possibilities, and being part of that construction is, without a doubt, what inspires me the most.
