BlueRock Diamonds announces new CEO

BlueRock Diamonds PLC has announced that Gus Simbanegavi is stepping down from his board position as COO and CEO of the company’s subsidiary, Kareevlei Mining, to pursue other business interests, effective 1 March 2022. Meiring Burger will assume the role of CEO of Kareevlei Mining. In his new role, Burger will oversee the recently commissioned one million tonne per annum (Mtpa) plant at the company’s Kareevlei Diamond Mine in South Africa. Burger is an internationally experienced mining industry professional with more than 25 years’ technical and managerial experience. Previously, he has held senior positions at various companies, including African Mining Solutions and First Quantum Minerals Ltd. Additionally, he has reportedly led “major, ultra-class” open pit operations up to 150Mtpa with labour forces of in excess of 6,000 people in the Southern African region. BlueRock Diamonds said Burger has experience in all aspects of exploration, mining operations, mine valuation and environmental management. Meanwhile, the company’s Kareevlei mine reopened as expected last week, with almost all staff returning to work. Mike Houston, chairman, said: “We are delighted to welcome Meiring to the team as CEO of Kareevlei, whose experience in mine and plant management will enhance the management of Kareevlei. “He has the advantage of having a good understanding of Kareevlei and brings strong leadership qualities at a crucial time as the team faces the ongoing and uncertain challenges of Covid alongside the move to ramp up production at the new processing facility during the wet season.” He added: “I would like to thank Gus for his work and commitment to BlueRock over what has been a very challenging period yet has still seen the company continue to drive its growth strategy; on behalf of his fellow directors and employees, I wish him every success in his future endeavours.”