The handling of process intermediates at Aurubis AG is a topic that grows as our smelter network expands. In this work, higher Sn recoveries were achieved by identifying a new processing route for a CuPb intermediate. Handling of impurities such as Sb and As became important learnings over the course of process development. Mitigating impurity effects requires a sequence of process development steps through modelling, testing, and data-driven decision-making. The concept leverages multiple Aurubis sites’ existing capabilities to separate the Cu from the Pb and Sn. The metallurgical process concept was first devised as a process flowsheet model and then reviewed by Aurubis metallurgists. Following this, a sequence of three test phases took place directly in operation, each larger in scope than the previous and each with specific questions to be answered. As the trial progressed, it moved from a technical focus to a stakeholder management focus. Data-driven consistency and openness were required between all stakeholders so each could understand the impact of the intermediate on their process, give feedback on concerns, as well as stop mechanisms if production was affected to a pre-aligned value. Aligning local site KPIs with overall group KPIs was key, along with steady communication to build acceptance of the new process and ultimately allowing long-term implementation. Ultimately, the project was able to treat the CuPb intermediate at a steady state within the span of 1 year.