Kris Van Nijen has been with the Belgian marine solutions provider DEME for 18 years in various roles abroad and at the head office in Belgium. In 2010 Kris became the MD of Global Sea Mineral Resources (100% owned by the DEME group), which signed an exclusive 15-year contract with the International Seabed Authority for the exploration of polymetallic nodules in the Clarion Clipperton Zone. Using Best Available Techniques (BAT) and the highest scientific standards, GSR aims to be a global leader in the responsible exploration and exploitation of polymetallic nodules, contributing to the sustainable development of the planet. Kris is actively involved in two international learned professional societies focused on mining (International Marine Minerals Association and the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration), participates in meetings of the regional (European Union) and international (International Seabed Authority) intergovernmental bodies charged with regulating deep sea mining and regularly presents his thoughts on this topic in international symposia. Kris obtained his MSc degree in 2001, an MBA in 2009 and is currently a PhD researcher focusing on this emerging industry presenting particular complex management challenges due to its multi-faceted political, economic, technological, scientific, environmental, social, industrial and legal aspects, all of which must be addressed holistically in order to achieve commercially responsible results.