Hendrik Lourens – Transformational Leader in Mining Productivity, Safety and Organizational Strategy

Hendrik Lourens began his career with a foundation in physics (MSc Polymer Science-Cum Laude) and a strong start in the petrochemical industry. Transitioning into leadership roles, he became a Director at a medium-sized manufacturing firm, where he honed his expertise in organisational strategy and operations.

 

After earning an MBA at Edinburgh Business School (Distinction), Hendrik achieved a significant milestone in 2010 by becoming the first person to qualify in all areas of the Theory of Constraints (TOC) within a year. He further contributed to the global TOC community by authoring a chapter in Goldratt Schools’ Leading People Through Change Journal in 2011. In 2013, he published Drawing a New Map, a book on management strategy and organisational transformation.

​Apart from TOC, Hendrik is also qualified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Certified Lean Specialist and Prosci Certified Change Practitioner.

From 2013 to 2022, Hendrik collaborated with the late Arrie van Niekerk to apply TOC principles to mining operations across multiple continents, delivering exceptional results in productivity and operational flow results.
Hendrik’s approach combines TOC with principles of organisational behaviour, enabling mining operations to achieve transformational operational improvements. His Productivity Platform has been recognised for delivering significant production gains while enhancing Safety and fostering a more engaged workforce. The Productivity Platform, specifically the Flow Room (dual management operating system), enables miners to add the missing agility to their MOS. 

 

He also partners with Art of Work to implement Safety Differently initiatives, which redefine safety outcomes in both industrial and mining contexts.

Based in Brisbane, Hendrik continues to lead change, applying innovative frameworks to solve complex challenges in mining and beyond.