Drilling and exploration company Rosond has appointed Glen Mc Gavigan as CEO, effective 13 January.  

Mc Gavigan succeeds Ricardo Ribeiro, who has taken up the role of executive chairperson.

With over 25 years of experience in the mining value chain, Mc Gavigan’s career has spanned key roles, including head of geosciences, principal geotechnical engineer and senior geotechnical engineer.

Most recently, he served as executive head of technical and projects at Kumba Iron Ore where he oversaw the technical disciplines of exploration, geology, mining engineering, processing, asset management and business improvement.

In this role, he was also responsible for the company’s technology transformation, as well as expansion capital projects.

“Mc Gavigan’s extensive expertise in mining and geosciences, combined with his passion for innovation, positions him perfectly to lead Rosond into its next phase of growth. I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to expand and enhance our value proposition,” says Ribeiro.

“I am deeply passionate about using science and technology to transform our industry and create lasting positive impacts in the communities where we operate,” says Mc Gavigan.

“Rosond’s people, culture and vision align strongly with my values, which is crucial. The company has immense potential both locally and internationally, and I am excited to build on the foundation of innovation and excellence that has been established over the years.

“As the world accelerates its drive towards decarbonisation, the discovery and development of new orebodies will be critical. Rosond, as a leader in exploration drilling, is well positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities,” Mc Gavigan adds.

Describing South and Southern Africa as one of the most attractive junctions for mining globally, Mc Gavigan says that the company looks forward to continuing to be a key player in this region.

Looking ahead to Rosond’s strategic expansion into the Middle East through its Rosond Arabia operation, Mc Gavigan highlights the region’s potential, describing Saudi Arabia as an underexplored market with significant opportunities, particularly for future-facing minerals.

He says the kingdom’s focus on diversifying its economy beyond oil and gas aligns perfectly with Rosond’s expertise in exploration and innovation.

“It is an exciting geography for growth,” he says.

“I have always believed in the principle of doing ‘good science’ – making decisions based on robust knowledge, applying the right energy, and maintaining unwavering integrity. As I step into this role, my focus will remain on safety, employee wellbeing, and delivering positive outcomes for the company and the communities we serve,” he concludes.