David J. Oconnor

Background

About David J. Oconnor

Sustainability Consultant and Technical Expert focused on the Mining & Metals sector, assisting clients transition to a more sustainable future with their projects and operations. Formerly EMEA Technical Community Lead for Cultural Heritage & Archaeology with over 25 years experience working on research and development projects of all sizes in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. I work with International Lender Banks to improve their social performance standards as well as developing best practice guidance notes, designing and delivering training and auditing project performance against these standards. Many of my projects are with major mining, transport, power generation and other large infrastructure developments as well as bespoke international research projects. I provide advice and direction at every stage of a project life-cycle, from feasibility, scoping, managing design change, gap-analysis, compliance auditing, input into emerging construction and environmental design to the production of impact assessment reports and environmental statements. Prior to joining ERM, I founded Magnus Archaeology in 2010 and provided wide-ranging consultancy services in all areas of Archaeology, Architectural Heritage and Cultural Heritage to both the private and public sectors. I have authored and project managed Cultural Heritage ESIA/ESIS desk-based assessments from inception to grant of planning. I have many years experience writing, managing, editing and producing assessment reports as well as working collaboratively with other disciplines (Landscape & Visual, Hydrology, Settlement, Ecology, etc) operating to International Best Practice, working to World Bank IFC Performance Standards, EBRD Performance Requirements and other International Lender standards as well as COE and UNESCO WHC Cultural Heritage requirements for World Heritage Sites. I have designed, managed and implemented Cultural Heritage mitigation measures and conservation plans, and have also acted as Project Manager and PSCS for large-scale heritage investigation contracts for major infrastructure projects including several motorway, stadia and light rail schemes. I am a full member of the Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland (IAI), and have been licensed by the Irish Government to direct archaeological excavations in Ireland since 2002.