Australian mining executive Mark Cutifani, whose diverse career included a stint running West Perth-based Sons of Gwalia Ltd, has been appointed chief executive of one of the world's biggest gold miners, AngoGold Ashanti Ltd.
South Africa-based Anglo announced yesterday that its chief executive of 12 years, Bobby Godsell, would be retiring from the company with effect from 30 September.
It also announced the appointment of Mr Cutifani as his successor.
Mr Cutifani is currently chief operating officer of Brazilian mining giant CVRD Inco, where he has responsibility for its global nickel business.
He previously spent four years with Canadian nickel miner Inco Ltd, which was acquired last year by CVRD.
He was chief executive of gold and tantalum miner Sons of Gwalia between 2000 and 2002, at a time when Gwalia's founders, Peter and Chris Lalor, were planning to reduce their involvement in the business.
However, the Lalors retained control of the business, which suffered major operational and financial problems and went into administration in August 2004.
The 49-year old Mr Cutifani, a graduate of the University of Wollongong, has also worked for Normandy Mining Ltd, WMC Ltd, Savage Resources Ltd, Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines and CRA Ltd.