Paul Kavinoky has been named the President of the Alabama Mining Association (AMA), succeeding Patrick Cagle, who is stepping down to pursue a career in ministry.

Kavinoky’s experience makes him a natural choice to lead AMA and fulfill its mission of promoting the safe and sustainable mining of natural resources that strengthen our infrastructure and grow our great state’s economy.

Kavinoky has more than 30 years of experience in external affairs, public policy, reputation management, and stakeholder engagement. During his career, he has worked in every aspect of mining including coal, hardrock minerals, aggregates, oil, and natural gas. He will be departing the Birmingham office of law firm Bradley Arant, where he has served as a Senior Advisor in the Governmental Affairs and Economic Development practice group for the past seven years.

“We are pleased to have Paul leading the mining association at such a pivotal time in our industry. Paul’s extensive background in mining and lobbying experience will allow him to add immediate value to the association and all its members,” said Walt Scheller, a member of the Alabama Mining Association Board of Directors. “We wish Patrick good luck in his future endeavors and thank him for his five years of service to the industry.”

Before joining Bradley Arant, Kavinoky served as Chief Advisor for global mining company Rio Tinto in Washington, D.C., leading their U.S. government and external affairs strategy. He has extensive experience refining key policy objectives and implementing legislative and communication strategies. He also developed valuable relationships with domestic and international executives, government and non-government stakeholders, and key legislators at all levels.

Kavinoky has also served as Senior Managing Director for the international law firm Dentons, where he focused on extractives and trade issues. Earlier in his career, he served as a senior Capitol Hill staffer, where he handled appropriations for House Appropriations Committee member Congressman George Nethercutt (R-WA) and as Deputy Chief of staff for the former House Resources Committee Chairman, Congressman Richard Pombo (R-CA).

“I am thrilled to be back fighting for the mining industry every day,” said Kavinoky. “Mining and extractives are in my blood.”

Paul and his wife Janet live in Homewood and he enjoys playing golf and traveling in his spare time.