Now in its third year, the search aims to showcase the impact and contribution of women within the global mining industry and identify inspirational role models.

The 2018 edition is co-sponsored by BMO Capital Markets and is open to any women in the mining sector, including related or supportive industries.

"As ever, WIM is keen to see the full array of natural resource sector roles represented in the 2018 edition: from mine to office, from explorers to c-suite, from finance to compliance and ESG to government/non-government agencies," the organisation said.

Candidates can be nominated by their companies, colleagues or themselves, with nominations closing midnight on August 15.

The most inspirational women will be selected by global peers, with the results due in November.

WIM managing director Nichole McCulloch said the search was open to women from every level of seniority and encouraged mining companies and co-workers to nominate inspirational female colleagues.

"Sharing the success stories of women in mining is critical to attracting and retaining female talent in our industry. It also allows us to address the common misconception that there is not a pipeline of talent coming through.

"Whilst more needs to be done, it is a pipeline that is growing and there are already a large number of inspirational women paving the way for the future of our industry. We feel this is a great way to celebrate their stories and successes," she said.

BMO head of investment and corporate banking, Europe Jeffrey Couch said the bank was "passionate about diversity" and it was "fantastic to be involved once again in a project that promotes and recognises successful women in the mining industry".