Rob McCurdy: A strategic approach to resource development through collaboration and responsibility

With over three decades of experience in the energy, infrastructure, and resource, Rob McCurdy, Chairman of the Board at Palkovsky Group, has led operations across three continents – from Canada and the USA, through Europe, to India and Singapore. Today, as part of the Palkovsky Group, he applies his strategic approach and expertise to development planning within the company. In this interview, he talks about team building, the importance of responsible resource management, and why he believes the projects in Valjevo have the potential to make a positive impact – both locally and in the broader context of the energy transition.

1. Your professional career spans more than three decades and covers the energy and

infrastructure sectors. What did your career path look like?

My professional journey began in an engineering role at a large smelter, but I quickly realized that what I found more fulfilling was working with people and leading teams. Over the years, I had the opportunity to manage large-scale operations across various sectors – from heavy industry and chemical sales to the concrete industry. I worked on three continents, leading teams in different cultural contexts.

At Lafarge in Canada, I managed the precast concrete operations. Later, I moved to southern US to oversee their ready-mix concrete production, and during that time, we were hit by Hurricane Katrina – I was there when it devastated the community, and we rebuilt our operations and formed a strong team. What I’ve learned the most throughout my career is the value of building strong and diverse teams – the team must always be stronger than the individual. That has been a constant throughout my career.

After that, I spent four years at Lafarge’s headquarters in Paris, where I was in charge of quality control and some aspects of global manufacturing. Working in India was also a particularly meaningful experience – the operation was poorly managed, and we succeeded in bringing order, developing leaders, and building a strong team. Some of those people now run their own successful companies.

After that, I joined a small startup company in British Columbia called Pinnacle Renewable. We built the second-largest wood pellet production company in the world, with plants across Western Canada and the U.S.

2. What motivated you to join the Palkovsky Group?

I was drawn to the opportunity to be part of developing projects that combine green energy potential, responsible use of natural resources, and a positive impact on the local community. In addition, I value the team’s commitment and the family’s vision. These projects have the potential to bring value to the local community while contributing to sustainability goals – a rare combination. Alexander and Petr impressed me with their commitment and sincere approach. I saw an opportunity to share my experience to contribute to project development, provide strategic focus, and provide input when important decisions need to be made.

3. How do you see Serbia’s potential when it comes to the responsible and sustainable

use of natural resources?

Serbia has significant potential, not only in terms of minerals that are important to modern life and the future, but also in terms of developing local communities through responsible, transparent, and inclusive projects. It is crucial that growth and development are not seen as separate from environmental protection – the two must go hand in hand. That’s why I believe the future lies in projects that don’t focus solely on resource extraction but on how those resources can serve people and improve their well-being.

The Palkovsky Group strongly believes in balancing economic benefit, environmental protection, and social responsibility. With open dialogue with local communities, using international best practice and upholding local regulation, and the application of modern technologies, Serbia can become a regional example of how to use natural resources in a sustainable, long-term, and socially responsible way.

4. How do you apply your extensive international experience in project development and management within the Palkovsky Group?

My experience from Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Asia has helped me develop an approach based on listening, understanding the local context, and strategic planning. It’s always important to do what’s right: for the planet, for people, for the community. In every challenge, I try to find a systematic solution. I see my role as supporting the team – always present when key decisions need to be made or when we face new challenges.

5. In your opinion, what are the most important benefits that the local community in Valjevo and the surrounding area can gain from Palkovsky Group’s projects?

First and foremost, these projects have the potential to be recognized as important for the local community – not just through employment and economic growth, but also through infrastructure development and support for local initiatives.

When we talk about concrete benefits for the local community, it’s important to highlight that Palkovsky Group’s projects bring resources of long-term value – borates are a key in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, energy and manufacturing, which opens opportunities for the development of supporting industries and stable jobs. On the other hand, geothermal energy is a clean, safe, and locally available energy source that can improve heating for public buildings, schools, hospitals, and households, while also reducing pollution and saving money for citizens. In this way, the local community gains not just an investment, but a sustainable foundation for future development.