Lahontan Gold Corp. (TSX.V: LG) (OTCQB: LGCXF) has announced three strategic additions to its management team, reinforcing its commitment to advancing the Santa Fe Mine project toward a planned production restart in 2027. The company is transitioning from a mine developer to a mine builder, and these appointments are designed to strengthen its technical, operational, and business development capabilities.
Tony Gesualdo rejoins Lahontan as vice president of exploration, a role he previously held from 2020 to 2023. During his earlier tenure, he was instrumental in contributing to the initial Mineral Resource Estimate for the Santa Fe Mine. His reappointment brings continuity and deep knowledge of the project's geology, which will be crucial as the company refines its resource model and exploration strategies.
Michael Kubel joins as senior mine engineer, bringing over a decade of experience in Nevada open-pit gold mining and heap-leach operations. His background includes work at the Florida Canyon and Hycroft mines, both of which are large-scale operations with similar processing methods. Kubel's expertise will be pivotal in mine planning and optimization as Santa Fe moves closer to construction.
Jen Earle assumes responsibilities in investor relations and business development, leveraging two decades of experience in natural resources, capital markets, and investor engagement across major exchanges including the LSE, ASX, and TSX. Her role will be essential in communicating the company's progress and attracting investment as it advances towards production.
Founder, Executive Chair, CEO, and President Kimberly Ann expressed confidence in the enhanced team, stating that the additions “strengthen Lahontan’s technical, operational, and business development capabilities as it advances Santa Fe permitting, mine planning, and its planned transition toward construction and operations.”
The Santa Fe Mine, located in the Walker Lane of Nevada, is a past-producing property with historical output of 359,202 ounces of gold and 702,067 ounces of silver between 1988 and 1995. It currently hosts a National Instrument 43-101 compliant Indicated Mineral Resource of 1,539,000 ounces of gold equivalent (Au Eq) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 411,000 ounces Au Eq.
The company plans to update the Santa Fe Preliminary Economic Assessment and drill test its satellite West Santa Fe project during 2025. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to de-risk the project and pave the way for a production decision.
These management changes come at a critical juncture, as the company aims to meet its 2027 target. The addition of seasoned professionals with specific experience in Nevada heap-leach operations and capital markets is a clear signal of intent. It underscores the company's focus on execution and its commitment to delivering value to shareholders.
The appointments also highlight the importance of experienced leadership in navigating the complex permitting and development process in Nevada, a state known for its mining-friendly environment but stringent regulatory requirements. With the enhanced team, Lahontan is better positioned to address these challenges and capitalize on the project's potential.
As the company transitions from exploration to development, the strategic alignment of its management team is critical. The new hires bring complementary skills that will be instrumental in advancing the Santa Fe Mine towards production, potentially establishing it as a significant gold and silver producer in the region.
For more information on Lahontan Gold Corp. and its projects, visit the company's website at lahontangoldcorp.com.
