Terrain into Terms.

VSG advises on the human factors that determine commercial outcomes in global extractive markets.

  • Relationship Architecture for Complex Markets

    In the extractive industries, the most critical terrain is not subterranean. It is the human and political landscape where strategy and access converge. We architect these relationships with a defined methodology.

  • 0.1 — Terrain & Profile
    We diagnose the integrated political, regulatory, and commercial landscape to define the exact profile of influence and acumen required.

    0.2 — Network & Access
    Through our singular, curated global network, we identify and secure targeted introductions to the individuals and coalitions that shape outcomes.

    0.3 — Integration & Execution
    We advise on the mandate and integration of placed leaders to ensure strategic intent converts into durable, contracted revenue.

  • We bridge strategic intent and operational reality, converting geopolitical complexity and market access into durable advantage across oil, gas, mining, and metals.

Who We Work With

CONSULTING & ADVOCACY

Nobel
Wood Mackenzie
The Tony Blair Institute
Crédit Agricole

INDUSTRIAL

Vale SA
Jiangxi Copper
Zijin
BHP

OIL & GAS

Saipem
ADNOC
Petrobras
Bechtel

VSG

Securing the Pre‑Contract Terrain

We enable our partners by establishing the leadership, relationships, and access required before competitive processes begin. This involves individuals capable of aligning stakeholders, navigating asymmetric information, and shaping the conditions under which bids succeed and long-term extractive projects remain viable.

Read more about us

The Bridge.

Before a project can be engineered, its political and commercial foundations must be laid.

We counsel our clients by connecting them with the exceptional individuals who can navigate this complex landscape, turning latent potential into durable, executable strategy.

Learn more >

VSG Framework

  • Commercial outcomes in frontier markets are often determined before a tender is issued.

    We work with partners to identify and engage the individuals who can construct this position—those who align stakeholders, shape the policy dialogue, and secure the foundational relationships that establish long‑term viability.

  • Enduring advantage is secured before a commercial process begins.

    We advise on identifying and engaging the strategic originator—the individual capable of structuring the pivotal pre‑competitive agreement, forging the essential joint venture, or securing the license that creates uncontested space.

  • A strategic position must be operationalised into durable growth.

    We focus on the leadership required to institutionalise a foothold—driving the partnerships, market strategies, and organisational discipline that convert hard‑won access into scaled, defensible revenue.

Consult

VSG Partnerships: Strategic Intermediaries for Complex Industries

In industries where success hinges on who you know—and how deals are structured—we ensure the right introductions are made. We operate where formal processes fall short, leveraging decades of embedded relationships to accelerate outcomes.

Opinion

JOURNAL REPORTS: AFRICA

Mining Isn’t the Hard Part. Trust Is. China Learned That Early.

▦  Ari Steinmetz | 4 January 2026

Playing The Long Game in Mining and Metals.

China’s dominance in critical minerals is deliberate, built over decades through ecosystem strategy the West never matched; today, Western companies face a single option: negotiate.

Read Full Article