Nils F. Engelstad – GC Powerlist
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Canada 2025

Materials and mining

Nils F. Engelstad

Chief Legal and governance officer | Vale Base Metals

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Canada 2025

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Nils F. Engelstad

Chief Legal and governance officer | Vale Base Metals

Legal team size: 13

What projects are you most proud to have worked on over the past 12 months?

I joined Vale Base Metals in November 2024. What stands out most is the incredible work ethic and dedication of our in-house legal team. As our business rapidly grows and evolves, this team consistently rises to meet complex challenges with precision, agility, and deep insight. It’s a high-performing group driving real impact – balancing strategic vision with legal rigor every step of the way. I’m proud to be part of a team that doesn’t just keep up with change – it leads through it.

Have you had any experiences during your career as a lawyer that stand out as particularly unique or interesting?

Mining is a realm like no other. My career has been a continuous thread of adventure, deep learning, and unexpected connections. I’ve had the opportunity to work on complex matters – both crisis and opportunity – in remote jurisdictions that few people ever step foot in, alongside lawyers and professionals whose perspectives shaped my own. What makes it particularly unique is that mining sits at the intersection of geopolitics, business, and law – every project pulls you into something new. It’s not a single story that stands out, but rather a collection of moments that, together, tell a deeply fascinating, unique and interesting narrative.

How does your team contribute to the overall business strategy of the company?

The VBM in-house legal and governance teams play a pivotal role in shaping and executing our strategic vision and business plans. They’re embedded in the decision-making fabric – offering legal foresight that informs business-critical moves. Their proactive guidance helps anticipate risks, streamline complex transactions, and align legal frameworks with long-term goals. As integrated business partners, they collaborate across departments, ensuring that strategic initiatives remain legally sound while protecting reputation and shareholder value. Whether navigating regulatory landscapes or structuring innovative deals globally, they serve not only as advisors but as enablers of growth – adding clarity, credibility, and resilience to corporate strategy. Their insight elevates operational confidence, allowing leaders to move swiftly and smartly in a competitive global environment.

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