Kane is a mining engineer with ore than 30 years' experience in the mining industry throughout Australia, New Zealand and Mongolia.

Emeco chairman Peter Richards said Kane brought a wealth of experience from his career in the resources sector, encompassing both producing miners and contractors.

"Peter's operational expertise and industry knowledge will be invaluable as Emeco continues to evolve the breadth of its operations to create a business sustainable throughout the cycle," he said.

"Further, his expansive mining operations experience will add an independent voice to the board on operational matters and will complement the expertise and skills on Emeco's board well."

Kane is chief operating officer of the QCoal Group, a role he has held for four years.

Prior to QCoal, Kane held roles as Cockatoo Coal CEO, Guildford Coal managing director, Aston Resources CEO, Boardwalk Resources CEO, Whitehaven Coal executive general manager projects, and Macarthur Coal chief operating officer.

Kane also performed the role of joint venture chair for multiple operations with numerous joint venture partners.

His earlier career included 10 years for Leighton in various roles including general manager of the Australian mining contractor business and 10 years with BHP, primarily in its iron ore and, later, coal divisions.