Viljoen to become Newmont’s first female CEO in company’s 104-year history
Gold major Newmont on Monday named COO Natascha Viljoen as its next president and CEO, marking the first time in the company’s 104-year history that a woman will lead the world’s largest gold miner.
Viljoen, the former head of South Africa's Anglo American Platinum, will take over on January 1, 2026, following the retirement of Tom Palmer, who has served as Newmont CEO since 2019. Palmer will step down from the board at year-end but remain a strategic adviser until March 2026.
Palmer, Newmont’s tenth CEO is credited with transforming the company through the $10-billion Goldcorp acquisition, the formation of Nevada Gold Mines with Barrick, and last year’s $16.8-billion purchase of Newcrest Mining.
Palmer's resignation comes on the same day that Barrick Gold announced its CEO, Mark Bristow, resigned, underscoring a significant leadership transition at the top of the global gold sector.
“After 12 years with Newmont, and almost 40 years in the mining industry, it is time for me to retire and hand over to Natascha to lead our company through the next chapter in its storied history,” Palmer said.
Viljoen joined Newmont in 2023 after three decades in the mining industry, including senior roles at Anglo American, BHP and Lonmin. She is known for her safety-first approach and operational discipline, which earned her recognition during her tenure as CEO of Anglo American Platinum.
“Over the last two years as COO, Natascha has proven to be an expert operator and inspiring leader,” Newmont chairperson Greg Boyce said.
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