Diversified miner Anglo American says it is “deeply saddened” by the passing of Clem Sunter, a former Anglo American executive.

He joined Anglo American in the early 1970s and went on to serve as chairperson and CEO of the group’s Gold and Uranium Division from 1990 to 1996.

“During a pivotal period for both the mining industry in South Africa and the country, he combined corporate leadership with far-reaching intellectual impact,” Anglo American says in a statement.

The miner says Sunter was instrumental in establishing a scenario planning capability within Anglo American in the early 1980s.

His “high road/low road” scenarios were used as frameworks for understanding South Africa’s possible futures during a period of intense uncertainty, the group points out, noting he engaged leaders across business and government and, shortly before South Africa’s democratic transition, visited the late President Nelson Mandela in prison to discuss potential scenarios for the country’s future.

Sunter later became an author and public speaker.

“Clem demonstrated that leadership is not only about operational excellence, but about helping others see further and think more rigorously about the road ahead. Through his work in leadership and scenario planning, he helped shape the way organisations and citizens thought about the future – with realism, humanity and hope.

“Many of us – myself included – benefited from his wisdom and the generosity with which he shared it,” says Anglo American CEO Duncan Wanblad.

“Clem was a great thinker, one of a kind in his generation. We continue to enjoy his rich legacy in so many ways. He gave us language that helped crystallise our thinking about our common destiny as a country – the ‘high road/low road’ scenarios.

“At a time of uncertainty, he reminded us that the future is shaped by the choices we make. May his soul rest in peace,” says Anglo American South Africa chairperson Nolitha Fakude.

Anglo American also extended it condolences to Sunter’s family and loved ones.