Diavik Diamond Mines is one of Canada’s top 100 employers

Diavik Diamond Mines Inc., operator of the Diavik open pit mine in Canada's Northwest Territories, has been chosen as one of the country’s Top 100 employers for the second consecutive year.
More than 15,000 companies were invited to apply for this recognition and participants were evaluated across a number of criteria including the physical workplace, employee benefits, employee communications, training and development, performance management and community involvement.
Diavik’s workplace was described by the selection committee as “exceptional” and “one of the most unique work locations in Canada and the world,” said the company in a press release.
According to Diavik Diamond Mines Inc. President and Chief Operating Officer, Niels Kristensen, safety is key to Diavik’s operations and was integral to the assessment of its work place.
“Diavik has accomplished so much in its relatively short history, from significant engineering feats through to accolades for its commitment to sustainable development. None of these would have occurred without the team at Diavik being focussed on the health, safety and welfare of all employees," Kristensen said.
"Being recognized as a top employer for two consecutive years reflects our desire to ensure Diavik remains an employer of choice, both in Canada and in the diamond industry,” he added.
Underground mining began at Diavik in 2010. The plan was to transition the mine and eventually close the open pit.
Toronto-based jeweller Harry Winston Diamond , which has a 40% stake and is looking to become the sole owner of Diavik, has said it expects to begin another open pit in 2016.
On Tuesday the Toronto-based jeweller reduced its 2012 production target for the mine to 7.4 million carats, as the operation shifts its efforts to concentrate on processing higher-valued diamonds.
The company has also said that Diavik will have a total capital cost of $955 million until the end of its life.