Most recently global mining sector leader and global mining client manager at Golder Associates, Walker has worked in the mining sector for over 27 years. He has expertise across geotechnical, hydrogeological, hydrological, tailings and mine-waste related projects.

Scottish born, he has spent most of his adult life in Africa, where his broad background in engineering, geology and hydrology led to involvement in a number of significant projects. These include Rio Tinto's Simandou project in Guinea, Freeport McMoRan's Tenke Fungurume and Newmont's Ahafo mines in the DRC and Ghana, among others.

In recent years, Walker has been based out of the UK where his focus has been on business development.

At SLR he will be working with the environmental consultancy's mining sector specialists to develop its global mining sector strategy, driving strategic growth across all regions.

Neil Penhall, SLR chief executive, commented: "Our one-team approach in mining and minerals is highly valued by our clients across the globe and David's international mining expertise will further augment our offering and growth plans in this sector."