Leadership Rooted in Purpose and People
When Martin Antonio G. Zamora took over as President and CEO of Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC) in late 2019, he inherited more than just a legacy of success, he inherited a mission to redefine how mining contributes to nation-building and sustainability. Guided by his belief that leadership must be anchored on people and principles, Martin has led NAC through some of the most challenging years in recent memory, from volcanic eruptions to a global pandemic and the economic downturn that followed. His response was deeply human: maintaining all jobs, retrenching no one, granting bonuses, providing housing, and ensuring that every employee felt valued and secure in uncertain times. His hands-on approach, marked by personal communication and transparency, created a culture of trust and unity that continues to define NAC today.
At the same time, Zamora recognized that the future of mining lies in responsible stewardship and innovation. Under his leadership, NAC strengthened its governance systems through the automation of data collection, financial reporting, and sustainability metrics, ensuring that decisions are data-driven and transparent. He formalized the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance framework, integrating sustainability into the company’s DNA. These initiatives laid the foundation for the Company’s recognition as the industry standard, not only locally but in the Asean region.
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Innovation for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Martin Zamora’s leadership philosophy extends beyond compliance, it is about reimagining what a nickel mining company can be. He has transformed NAC into a catalyst for clean energy, with its subsidiary Emerging Power Inc. operating solar facilities totaling 172 megawatts and targeting one gigawatt of clean energy by 2028 in partnership with Shell Overseas Investments B.V. Its mining subsidiaries are also advancing decarbonization efforts through hybrid excavators, a conveyor system that reduces fuel usage by 92 percent, and land-use-based greenhouse gas inventories that serve as industry firsts in Asia.
The company’s participation in the Science Based Targets initiative and the United Nations Global Compact demonstrates its global alignment with sustainable development principles. For Zamora, progress is not measured merely in output but in how business decisions protect the people, the environment, and future generations. His efforts have made NAC the first mining company in the Philippines to achieve verified greenhouse gas inventories and net-zero commitments, setting a precedent for responsible mining across the region.
Championing Diversity and Empowerment
True to his “People First” philosophy, Zamora believes that diversity, equality, and inclusivity are essential for progress. Today, 20 percent of Nickel Asia’s workforce are women, nearly half of whom hold leadership roles, while members of indigenous communities make up a significant portion of its skilled workforce. He has also institutionalized succession planning and professional management practices to ensure the company’s long-term success beyond its family-owned roots.
His leadership extends to advocacy and civic engagement. As Vice Chairman of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines and a Director of the Philippine Nickel Industry Association, he promotes ethical governance and social inclusion. Under his guidance, Nickel Asia Foundation donated P15 million to the University of the Philippines National Institutes of Health for its new research building, demonstrating the company’s commitment to national development.
Through strategic foresight, human-centered leadership, and a deep respect for the planet, Zamora has built a legacy that transcends profit. He leads not only a company but a movement toward sustainable transformation proving that with integrity and innovation, business can truly be a force for good.
