30years experience

Damien Harding

Principal Consultant

Damien Harding is a Chartered Chemical Engineer with a PhD and over 30 years of experience spanning research, development, consulting, and innovation across the rail, mining, and processing sectors. He has held senior leadership roles including General Manager within Rio Tinto’s Innovation team and Senior Principal in Hatch Advisory. More recently, Damien has supported major transport and mining organisations, including Aurizon, in developing and delivering their zero-emissions heavy haul strategies.

At Rail Confidence, Damien helps clients reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve operational performance through robust, technology-driven strategies, drawing on his international experience and extensive cross-sector networks.

Leadership

A recognised thought leader in rail decarbonisation, he has led major programs across industry, research, and government, building strategic partnerships that deliver measurable outcomes. His strong networks and practical understanding of emerging technologies enable him to guide organisations through credible, value-driven transition pathways towards sustainable operations.

Damien has co-authored over 30 patents, contributed to award-winning technology programs, and presented research and strategic outcomes at leading industry conferences. His work consistently bridges innovation, technology, and operational performance to drive sustainable outcomes.

Skills and experience

Development of zero-emission heavy haul rail strategies involving battery, hydrogen, and renewable diesel technologies.
Techno-economic modelling to identify cost-effective decarbonisation pathways and optimise Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
Design of regenerative braking battery systems for heavy haul locomotives.
Research collaboration with universities on advanced battery and hydrogen research for freight rail applications.
Authorship of academic research and conference papers contributing to strategic development and advancing thought leadership in rail.
Commercialisation of innovative mineral processing technologies, including ore sorting and advanced flotation systems.
Formation of industry-leading innovation partnerships, such as strategic alliances with BHP and global mining clients.
Leadership of Rio Tinto’s global network of Innovation Excellence Centres, delivering hundreds of millions in value creation.