She has technical qualifications in chemistry, and in psychology and training. She has more than 20 years experience in the mining industry.

For five years until June 2008, Leigh was the Senior Training and Development Officer for AngloGold Ashanti, where she worked for the Africa Metallurgical Technical Services, and for the South African Metallurgical Training and Development Services Groups. Prior to that, she was Assistant Chief Chemist for AngloGold Ashanti Western Deep Levels for seven years.