We speak German, Spanish, French, Dutch, Belgium, Portuguese, Scandinavian and English
Balke & Partners is a fast growing network of over 300 stone experts around the world working in all fields of natural stone resources.
We are working in dimension stone, aggregate, sand gravel pits and industrial minerals with geologists, experts in mining, stone processing and equipment, mining law, financing, marketing and sales and many others.
Most of our partners have more than 20 years working experience and professionals in their sector.
Markus W. Balke - Founder
over 30 years
in natural stone business
Highly accomplished and internationally recognized leader in the natural stone industry with 30+ years of experience encompassing all facets of the business, from quarry acquisition and resource management to production, distribution, and global sales & marketing. A proven track record of establishing and scaling successful companies, navigating complex international markets, and delivering high-profile projects worldwide.
Executive Experience
Balke & Partners LLC – The Stone Experts Alliance (2010 – Present)
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Founder & Managing Director: Established and led a network of 200+ natural stone industry experts.
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Industry Publicist: Authored articles and delivered presentations for leading stone industry publications.
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Keynote Speaker: Presented at major international stone industry congresses and trade shows (World-Stone Congresses, Xiamen/China; Middle East Big 5, Dubai/UAE; Verona/Italy, etc.).
Luis-Vincent Granite Inc. (2006-2010)
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Founder & CEO: Founded and led a subsidiary of Luis Vincent Group Corporation. Developed corporate structure, established stockyards in Montreal and Baltimore, and achieved $12 million USD in annual turnover.
IGC International Granite Connection Ltd. (2006-2009)
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Interim Managing Director & CEO: Managed $5 million USD in annual turnover, overseeing the coordination of bulk shipments of up to 50,000 metric tons of dimension stone from Southern Africa and Zimbabwe to North America.
Steinzeit Natursteine GmbH
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Founder & Managing Director: Founded and managed a successful natural stone distribution network across Europe, achieving €10 million in annual turnover. Successfully completed numerous high-profile projects for prestigious clients (including the German Federal President's Office and the German Bundestag).
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Market Development & Production Facilities: Developed new markets and established production facilities in China.
NKB Bremen
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General Manager: Led the establishment of a new branch office in Bonn, Germany, achieving DM 4.5 million in annual turnover.
Baubedarf Berg und Mark
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Building Materials Consultant: Provided expert consulting services to the building and civil engineering sectors.
Education
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Master of Science in Marketing and Communications (Hochschule VWA)
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Mineralogy and Geology (University of Cologne)
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Certified Foreign Trade Expert
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Certified Building Construction Expert
Professional Affiliations
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International Association of Professional Business Consultants
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IMC Institute of Management Consultants USA
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APC Association of Professional Consultants
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NSI – Natural Stone Institute of America
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MBNA – Monument Builders of North America
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NSC – Natural Stone Council (United Voice of the Natural Stone Industry)
Dr. Ing James Varela
Expert Partner and regional director
South America and Lusophone countries
Dr.-Ing. James Varela is a seasoned expert in mineral processing, possessing both theoretical and practical expertise in physical and chemical processes, including crushing, screening, washing, grinding, gravimetric and magnetic separation, sorting, flotation, granulation, and high-temperature techniques.With over 20 years of experience in Brazilian and German companies, Dr. Varela has a distinguished career encompassing research, operations, project management, strategic planning, and sales within multinational companies of significant size. His expertise extends to:
Project and Sales Management: Successfully managed new equipment, industrial plant business, and service projects, demonstrating proficiency in technical specification and interdisciplinary team collaboration, as well as commercial execution. Experience includes material and production cost analysis, logistics optimization, environmental, legal, and risk assessments, with a focus on international turnkey projects (EPC contracts).
Strategic Business Development: Extensive experience in strategic planning, quotation development, and contract execution within a turnkey service business unit (spare parts, revamps, service centers, and field services for the mining, mineral processing, and cement industries).
Global Project Delivery: Successfully delivered major projects in Latin America, the USA, Canada, and Germany. Demonstrates high motivation and a strong commitment to achieving results.
James Varela possesses exceptional multicultural understanding, flexibility, and communication skills, and thrives in team environments. He is a skilled relationship builder with interests in sports, travel, and cuisine.
Languages: Native Portuguese, expert-level (C1) German, English, and Spanish.Education: Doctorate in Engineering (Calcination of Limestone).
Focus Areas: Leveraging his native Portuguese and Spanish fluency, Dr. Varela will focus on South America and Lusophone countries.
Eduardo M. Zavala
Expert Partner and regional director
Mexico and hispanic countries South America
Eduardo M. Zavala graduated with a degree in Business Administration from the esteemed National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). His life journey has been marked by learning and personal development.
From the onset of his academic career, he has immersed himself in the study and practice of Sales and Marketing. His international education has expanded his horizons and equipped him with valuable skills and insights that he has utilized throughout his professional journey.
Eduardo's true passion lies in inspiring and motivating others to realize their full potential. Over time, he has established himself as one of Mexico's leading speakers and trainers in Productivity and Personal Improvement. His mission focuses on transforming salespeople into trusted advisors, aiding entrepreneurs in achieving their aspirations, and training sales professionals and business leaders.
His books, "SI SE PUEDE" and "RELÁCIONATE Y VENDE," published by SELECTOR®, have achieved Best Seller status, with over 150,000 copies sold. These works have inspired hundreds of thousands, guiding them towards success and personal fulfillment.
Through workshops, seminars, and training programs held nationwide, he has had the privilege of sharing his expertise with a diverse audience. His methodology involves personalizing the "Relate and Sell" model for various products and services, enabling effective sales across the board.
Additionally, he has founded a movement aimed at empowering individuals to offer effective counsel to their clients.
Joseph Sam
Expert Partner and regional director
South and East Asia
I. Joseph Sam is a highly accomplished management professional and entrepreneur with a proven track record of building and scaling businesses globally. His expertise spans diverse sectors, including mining, building materials, consumer goods, services, and manufacturing, and he possesses a deep understanding of international business practices.
Throughout his career spanning over two decades, Mr. Sam has consistently led all aspects of business development, from initial concept and planning through execution, funding acquisition, and strategic repositioning. His experience includes business re-engineering, brand building, investor relations, and the formation of global alliances and partnerships.
His extensive skillset encompasses strategy development, business planning, investment management, negotiation, and business development. Mr. Sam holds an engineering degree, three postgraduate qualifications (Environmental Law, Marketing, and Manufacturing), and advanced certifications in Investment Law, Business Valuation, Change & Conflict Management, and Entrepreneurship. He is a Certified Corporate Director (Institute of Directors) with hands-on experience in developing mining businesses, establishing marketing networks, and collaborating with a wide range of investors to incubate, build, and scale ventures in the mining, minerals, and metals sector. He also possesses a Diploma in PR & Advertising and significant experience in commodity branding and marketing.
Mr. Sam joined Balke & Partners to lead their Asia operations, driven by Markus Balke's values, collaborative approach, and visionary commitment to sustainable natural resource monetization. His personal commitments extend to mentoring underprivileged youth and philanthropic initiatives focused on alleviating hunger and promoting education.
Regarding his collaboration with Balke&Partners:
Mr. Sam states, "My decision to partner with Markus in his global initiative of aggregating quarries for investment and sale stems from: (1) his recognized expertise and extensive network in this sector; (2) his ability to collaboratively envision and astutely monetize natural resources; and (3) his strong business ethics, reflecting values, vision, and integrity."
Mr. Balke's vision centers on securing the future of natural resources through collaborative efforts, simultaneously fostering cross-pollination of investment into potentially profitable and sustainable ventures.
Henning Roger Gravdal
Finance & Strategic Management
Geologist and expert for concrete technology and mineral processing
Expert Partner and
Regional director Scandinavia
Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland
Henning Roger Gravdal is a highly accomplished executive with 25 years of experience in senior management roles within multinational companies operating in the cement, concrete, and industrial minerals sectors. His career highlights include:
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Chief Executive Officer (CEO), SMA Magnesia AS (10+ years): Successfully led the company, demonstrating expertise in strategic leadership and operational management.
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Market and Production Responsibility, SMA Mineral AB (Europe): Managed market operations and production for SMA Mineral AB across Europe, including oversight of joint ventures with industry leaders Omya, HeidelbergCement, and Carmeuse. This experience showcases his ability to manage complex partnerships and navigate international markets.
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Chief Operating Officer (COO), HeidelbergCement AG (Ghana): completed a successful COO mandate in 2021 on an international project in Ghana, further demonstrating his global project management capabilities and success in a demanding operational environment.
Mr. Gravdal is an internationally recognized entrepreneur with a deep passion and proven expertise in industrial minerals. He has initiated and successfully executed numerous large-scale mineral and industrial projects across Scandinavia, West Africa, and the West Indies.
His background includes:
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Academic Credentials: An MBA in Finance & Strategic Management (Norway) and a Geology degree. He is widely regarded as an expert in concrete technology and mineral processing.
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Global Experience: Post-MBA career focused on mining, processing, minerals, and natural resources within multinational corporations.
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Mr. Gravdal joined Balke & Partners’ network of stone experts this year, eager to contribute his extensive knowledge and experience to the Stone Experts Alliance.
He resides with his family near Oslo, Norway, and enjoys snowboarding and mountaineering in his leisure time.
Marilena Sidiropoulou
Expert Partner - Country Director Greece
Thessaloniki - Greece
P +30 694 696 9814
Email: marilena@balkepartners.com
Marilena Sidiropoulou is a seasoned legal professional licensed in Greece since 2011, possessing a strong academic foundation with degrees in Economics and a Master's in Commercial and Business Law. Her extensive legal practice encompasses civil, commercial, business, administrative, and criminal law, including legal advisory and compliance services.
A certified Data Protection Officer (DPO) with significant experience as a GDPR and privacy consultant, Ms. Sidiropoulou has successfully managed numerous GDPR compliance projects. Further enhancing her expertise, she holds professional certifications in internal audit, internal controls, and risk management (COSO IC, COSO ERM). This expertise has enabled her to successfully execute numerous national and international projects involving the implementation of robust internal control systems and the delivery of comprehensive consulting services.
Her combined academic and professional background uniquely positions her as an expert in compliance, process optimization, standards implementation, transaction management, contract negotiation, documentation, risk management, and legal compliance relating to natural resource investments. This multifaceted expertise allows her to provide valuable insights and effective solutions for complex legal matters and transactions within the global quarry and mining industry.
Her partnership with an individual deeply involved in the global stone industry network, coupled with his extensive contacts among quarry/mine/pit owners in Greece, creates a synergistic partnership.
Motivation for Joining Balke & Partners:
Ms. Sidiropoulou is drawn to Balke & Partners' distinguished professional profile and its commitment to tailoring diverse solutions to meet specific client needs. She values the firm's methodical and organized approach to maximizing opportunities, along with its deep industry expertise and specialization. She believes her professional background aligns perfectly with Balke & Partners' operational style and anticipates making significant contributions to ongoing initiatives and projects.
Francis Lim
Expert Partner - Country Director Canada
Toronto
P+1 647.985.7772
Email: francis.lim@balkepartners.com
Francis is a committed professional with extensive expertise in the transactions of quarries, pits, and mining-related properties. As a member of our specialized team in the mining and stone industries, he combines real estate knowledge with specialized insights, establishing himself as a trusted advisor for owners, investors, and operators as they navigate the complexities of these industries.
With a wealth of experience in real estate, Francis is adept at understanding the unique challenges and opportunities inherent in quarrying and mining operations. At Balke & Partner, he focuses on providing customized solutions for property acquisitions, asset dispositions, and the valuation of mining sites and stone pits. His deep understanding of the regulatory environment, environmental issues, and market trends specific to the industry allows him to offer actionable insights and strategic guidance to clients.
Francis' professional background includes valuable experience in the Real Estate Management Division of a municipal government body, where he developed his skills in managing complex assets and infrastructure. Additionally, his previous role as a Marketing Director at a digital marketing agency has equipped him with the expertise to address the sales and marketing needs of the mining and stone sectors effectively.
Further distinguishing himself, Francis holds the P. App., AACI designation from the Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia. This expertise enables him to adeptly guide mining operators in acquiring new sites and assist investors in understanding the long-term value of quarry and pit locations.
Fluent in both English and Korean, Francis is well-positioned to support a diverse clientele.
JOSE JORGE VILLASEÑOR CABRAL
Expert Partner worldwide - Gold and Silver Desposits - Mining Engineer
and Metallurgist
University of Guanajuato 1963-1967,
MBA PROGRAM ITESM, 1973-1975
Durango Mexico
P +52 618 182 4761
Email: Jorge.villasenor@balkepartners.com
JOSE JORGE VILLASEÑOR CABRAL
A highly accomplished mining executive with 50+ years of experience in operational management, project development, and strategic consulting across diverse mining operations in Mexico and internationally. Expertise encompasses all aspects of mine development and operation, from exploration and permitting through production, social responsibility, and successful divestments. Proven ability to manage complex projects, negotiate with stakeholders, and deliver results within challenging operational and social environments.
Professional Experience
2021-Present: Operational Advisor, MGA Mining Contractor (Durango, Mexico); Advisor to multiple mining companies.
2016-Present: Entrepreneur, Mining Project (Pinos Zac, Mexico).
2013-2015: Consultant, Compañía Minera Autlán and Baramin S.A. de C.V. (Mexico).
2012: Advisor, Nyrstar N.V. (Farallon Mining Ltd. acquisition).
2004-2012: General Manager, Farallón Minera Mexicana S.A. de C.V. (subsidiary of Farallon Mining Ltd., Hunter-Dickinson Group). Managed the Campo Morado mine ($200M investment, 2,500 tpd underground operation, flotation mill). Successfully launched full operations within three months, mitigating potential social conflicts.
2000-2003: Consultant to various organizations, including Teck Cominco (San Nicolás project), National Gold (Mulatos project negotiations), and the Zacatecas and Sinaloa State governments (mining project analysis). Successfully negotiated the $94M sale of the Minera de Nukay (Mezcala) project to Wheaton River (now Equinox Gold).
1995-2000: Luismin S.A. de C.V.: Active participation in international mining forums (Conference Board of New York, International Council for Metals and the Environment); Board Member, Mining Chamber (Community Relations Committee); Developed and presented sustainable development projects.
1998-2000: Luismin S.A. de C.V., Director of Operations: Managed three mining operations (196,000 oz Au equivalent production); oversaw three processing plants (700,000 tons combined grinding capacity); obtained SEMARNAT Clean Industry certification; and developed a community relations program based on sustainable development principles. Successfully completed Due Diligence for potential mergers with international mining companies (Hecla Mining, Coeur d'Alene, Viceroy, Cambior).
1992-1998: Luismin S.A. de C.V., Development Director: Oversaw environmental, engineering, construction, and metallurgical departments; provided technical support for operational rationalization and modernization; represented Luismin on joint venture management committees (Cambior and Hecla); and managed the Metates (25M oz Au equivalent) and El Porvenir (600,000 oz Au equivalent) projects.
1988-1992: Operations Manager, Minera Mexicana de Avino S.A. de C.V.: Managed open-pit and underground mining operations (750-1500 tpd), flotation plant.
1986-1988: Independent Entrepreneur (Pinos Zac, Mexico).
1984-1986: General Manager, Minerales de Bolaños S.A. de C.V. (Jalisco, Mexico).
1979-1984: Director of Operations, Minera Real de Ángeles S.A. de C.V.: Successfully completed a $200M project (100M oz silver), achieving design capacity (14,000 tpd) within three months.
1968-1979: Compañía Minera Autlán S.A. de C.V.: Progressed from Mine Shift Head to Unit Manager, overseeing manganese carbonate processing (300,000 tons/year).
1967-1968: Compañía Minera La Campaña S.A. de C.V. (Peñoles): Mine and flotation mill supervision.
EUROPE-GERMANY
P +49 221 168 18 990
europe@balkepartners.com
EUROPE-SPAIN & HISPANIC COUNTRIES
08001 Barcelona - Spain
espanol@balkepartners.com
EUROPE-PORTUGAL-LUSOPHONE COUNTRIES
portugues@balkepartners.com
EUROPE-FRANCE-FRANCOPHONE COUNTRIES
francais@balkepartners.com
EUROPE-UNITED KINGDOM
Edinburgh EH1 3EG - P +44 7977 410827
uk@balkepartners.com
EUROPE- SCANDINAVIA
3912 Porsgrunn / Oslo - Norway
P +4795238877
EUROPE- GREECE
54248 Thessaloniki Greece
P +30 694 986 1794
USA & CANADA
cus@balkepartner.com
MEXICO & HISPANIC COUNTRIES SOUTH AMERICA
P +52 998 370 3101
BRAZIL & LUSOPHONE COUNTRIES SOUTH AMERICA
portuguese@balkepartners.com
P +52 998 370 3101
AUSTRALIA-OCEANIA
Gold Coast - Queensland - Australia
australia@balkepartners.com
SOUTH AND WEST ASIA
New Delhi 110070 INDIA
P +91 98103 19111 south-asia@balkepartners.com
EAST AND NORTH ASIA
Hong Kong 999077 - Central District
P +852 9327 0117 hongkong@balkepartners.com
