Quebec-based Torngat Metals on Tuesday announced the appointment of Maryse Bélanger as chairperson of its board of directors.

She joined the board in July.

"We are delighted to welcome Maryse as chair of our board. Her leadership, deep and broad experience in the mining industry and in large infrastructure projects, as well as her understanding of sustainable development, make her the ideal person to guide Torngat Metals through the next stage of development of its Strange Lake project," said Torngat CEO Yves Leduc.

Originally from Saguenay and a geology graduate from the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, Bélanger brings over 35 years of experience in leading global mining companies. She has led or supported several major mining organisations, including Iamgold, Atlantic Gold, Mirabela Nickel and Goldcorp.

Bélanger currently serves on the boards of Equinox Gold and Graymont and has twice been named among Women in Mining UK's 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining.

"Torngat Metals is built on solid foundations – an experienced team, strong governance, and a clear vision for responsible development. I look forward to strengthening that trajectory and helping to showcase a Quebec-based model for sustainable critical minerals production. In my role as board chair, I am committed to Torngat Metals' effort to address environmental concerns and promote an inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders," said Bélanger.

The Torngat Metals project, which includes developing a rare-earth deposit in Nunavik, constructing a processing facility in Sept-Îles, and developing transportation infrastructure in Labrador, is part of Canada's broader goal to build a sustainable, local supply chain for the critical minerals needed to power the global energy transition.

With the appointment of Bélanger, Torngat continues the leadership transition initiated with the arrival of Leduc as CEO earlier this year.

Torngat thanked Tom Gilman for his tenure and services and wished him the best in his next endeavours.