New Found Gold Enhances Leadership Team to Propel Future Growth and Sustainability
New Found Gold Corp. is making significant moves in its leadership team to prepare for the upcoming challenges and opportunities in the mining industry. The Vancouver-based company recently announced the appointment of Dr. Fiona Childe as Vice President of Communications and Corporate Development, Dr. Jared Saunders as Vice President of Sustainability, and Robert Assabgui as Study Manager. These appointments are set to take effect immediately, marking a new chapter in the company’s trajectory.
Dr. Fiona Childe brings more than 25 years of experience in the mining sector, having occupied various senior management positions throughout her career. Her past roles have involved consulting for publicly traded mining companies and too many projects across numerous international regions. Childe's experience will be pivotal as New Found Gold aims to expand its footprint in the sector, particularly with the imminent release of the maiden mineral resource estimate for the Queensway Project in the second quarter of 2025.
In his newfound role as Vice President of Sustainability, Dr. Jared Saunders is well-positioned to advance New Found's commitments to environmental and social governance. He has spent over two decades in environmental sciences and has a strong foundation in project management within the mining industry. His experience includes working with Vale Newfoundland and Labrador, where he managed environmental departments effectively. Jared’s extensive knowledge of environmental regulatory frameworks will serve New Found well as it navigates future projects. Keith Boyle, the CEO of New Found Gold, expressed excitement about the contributions that Fiona and Jared are expected to bring to the company. He stated, “These strategic appointments will be instrumental in achieving our upcoming milestones.”
Robert Assabgui joins the team as Study Manager, bringing a robust operational background in the mining industry. Throughout his career, he has overseen critical projects, including his tenure at Hudbay Minerals. The company has high expectations for Robert to lead the upcoming economic assessment of the Queensway Project, which is in line with its growth strategies.
However, amid these strategic expansions, there have also been shifts within the existing management structure. The current Chief Operating Officer, Greg Matheson, has decided to resign, effective February 28, 2025, though he will remain with the Company as an Advisor during this transition period. Matheson’s leadership has been crucial for the advancement of the Queensway Project since its inception. Keith Boyle acknowledged his significant contributions to the company, indicating that his expertise will continue to be an asset in an advisory capacity. Additionally, Chief Development Officer Ron Hampton has stepped down effective immediately. The company has expressed gratitude for his service and wishes him well in his future endeavors.
The changes are expected to strengthen New Found Gold’s competitive position, particularly as the company heads into critical phases of its projects. The Queensway Project, which is located near Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, has significant potential and is currently undergoing an extensive 650,000-meter drilling program. As accessibility to high voltage electric power lines and well-developed transport infrastructure supports the project development, the company appears well-prepared to capitalize on upcoming opportunities.
Overall, with new talent and a renewed focus on sustainability and profitability, New Found Gold Corp. is strategically positioning itself for success in a rapidly evolving mining landscape. The Board and management team are optimistic about the future and the milestones they aim to achieve in the coming year.