AngloGold Ashanti plc, a leading global gold mining company, has announced the appointment of Jochen Tilk as the chairman of its board of directors, effective May 28, 2024, pending his re-election.
This significant leadership change follows the decision of Maria Ramos, the current independent non-executive director and board chairman, not to stand for re-election at the upcoming annual general meeting of shareholders on the same date.
Maria Ramos has been an integral part of AngloGold Ashanti’s board since June 1, 2019, and assumed the role of chairman on December 5, 2020. Her tenure has been marked by a steadfast commitment to ethical governance and strategic guidance, earning her recognition for her invaluable contributions to the company’s growth and stability.
In expressing appreciation for Ramos’s service, Alberto Calderon, CEO of AngloGold Ashanti, lauded her leadership qualities, stating, “We are grateful for Maria’s enormous contribution to AngloGold Ashanti during her tenure as Chairman. She has exemplified the highest levels of ethics, governance and strategic guidance, while being a great support to me in my role. We wish her the very best and every success in her new endeavors.”
Commenting on his appointment, Tilk expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as chairman and affirmed his dedication to advancing the company’s mission. “I am honored to take on the role of chairman of AngloGold Ashanti’s board of directors. I look forward to working closely with the board, management team, and shareholders to drive the company’s strategic priorities and deliver long-term value,” he remarked.
Jochen Tilk Brings A Wealth Of Experience And Expertise
Stepping into the role of chairman, Jochen Tilk brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the position. Tilk has served as an independent non-executive director of AngloGold Ashanti since January 1, 2019, and has chaired the board’s investment committee. His deep understanding of the mining industry coupled with his leadership acumen positions him well to guide the company through its strategic objectives and challenges ahead.
Tilk, who holds a master’s degree in mining engineering, has deep experience in the global mining sector. He was previously executive director of Nutrien Inc., a Canadian global supplier of agricultural goods and services. He is the former President and CEO of Potash Corp., a large producer of crop nutrients.
Prior to that, Tilk spent 25 years with Inmet Mining Corp., a global mining company, the last five of which were as President and CEO. Tilk is currently non-executive director on the board of Emera Inc., a publicly traded energy utility and serves on the board of the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, a non-profit organisation.
“On behalf of the board I thank Maria for her impactful and principled leadership. During her tenure AGA has made tremendous strides in advancing its strategy and delivering on its objectives, through a new talented and effective leadership team,” said Rhidwaan Gasant, AngloGold Ashanti’s lead independent director.
“We are privileged to have someone of Jochen’s experience and track record, with strong institutional and industry knowledge, to lead the board and represent the interests of shareholders and other stakeholders. I would like to congratulate Jochen and wish him every success in his new role.”
Rhidwaan Gasant
Additional Changes To The Board
Maria Richter, a non-executive director of the board since 1st January 2015 has also elected not to stand for re-election at the upcoming AGM in May.
Albert Garner, has been appointed by the Board to replace Ms. Richter as chairman of the Compensation and Human Resources Committee with effect from 28th May 2024, subject to his re-election at the AGM.
“On behalf of the board of directors, our heartfelt thanks go to Maria (Richter) for her tremendous contribution at the board level over the past nine years, and in ensuring that our compensation practises are aligned with good practice and emerging industry and governance trends. We wish her the very best with her future plans,” said Maria Ramos.
The appointment of Tilk underscored AngloGold Ashanti’s commitment to maintaining strong governance practices and fostering sustainable growth in a dynamic global market. As the company continues to navigate evolving industry trends and economic landscapes, Tilk’s leadership will be instrumental in steering the board toward effective decision-making and value creation for shareholders.
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