Newmont Corp. has appointed Bernard Wessels as the general manager of the Peñasquito mine, replacing Jim Cooper. Cooper’s employment with Newmont has been terminated with immediate effect for violations of Newmont’s Code of Conduct while working for the company in Australia.
Wessels brings a long and successful track record of operational delivery to Peñasquito having managed Newmont’s Ahafo mine in Ghana since 2017. During his time at Ahafo, he delivered the Ahafo Mill Expansion project on budget and is advancing the improved mining method at Subika Underground, which the company says will increase production, capture higher efficiencies and lower costs. Prior to joining Newmont, Wessels managed complex gold and platinum mines across South Africa, balancing difficult technical and community challenges at each operation.
“Despite the challenging circumstances caused by COVID-19, the team on the ground in Mexico has continued to deliver solid operational performance at Peñasquito and has been recognized for its industry leading approach in managing through the pandemic,” President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Palmer said. “Bernard is a capable leader who brings a proven track record of delivery at large, complex operations and will continue a culture of continuous improvement to drive efficiencies and improve performance at this world-class operation.”
Since acquiring Peñasquito, Newmont said it has delivered steady operational improvements and reset the vital relationship with local communities. As previously announced, the Cedros General Assembly recently ratified the definitive agreement reached in April to resolve all outstanding disputes between Peñasquito and the San Juan de Cedros community. The agreement said that any future disputes will be resolved through dialogue and free of blockades.
Peñasquito has more than 8 million ounces (oz) of gold reserves, approximately 26 million oz in gold equivalent ounce reserves, and significant exploration potential in this prospective district, which may allow the company to extend value delivery for decades to come.
