SA mining executive Natascha Viljoen has been appointed as CEO-designate of the world’s largest gold mining house, Newmont, in a carefully planned succession that saw the group prise her away from Anglo American Platinum (Amplats) two years ago.
The appointment cements Viljoen as the most powerful woman in mining with globally recognised expertise.
The New York Stock Exchange-listed Newmont said on Monday Viljoen will be promoted from the role of COO to president and CEO with effect from January. She replaces Tom Palmer, who has been in the role since 2019.
Historic first for world’s largest gold miner
Newmont chair Greg Boyce said Viljoen becomes the first woman to lead the group in its 104-year history.
Growing up in a South African mining family — my father was a winding engine driver — my passion for this industry was shaped from an early age.
— Natascha Viljoen, on LinkedIn
“We are delighted to welcome Natascha as our next CEO. Over the last two years as our COO, Natascha has proven to be an expert operator and inspiring leader. We are fortunate to have Natascha lead Newmont with a clear focus on unlocking value across our world-class portfolio,” Boyce said.
Newmont, which produces gold, copper, silver, zinc and lead, has operations that run from South America, Australia and North America to Africa.
The group roped in Viljoen in 2023 from what was then Amplats, now Valterra Platinum, where she served as CEO.
Global experience and mining pedigree
Viljoen, who is in her mid-50s, hails from a mining family; her father worked at a gold mine in Klerksdorp.
She reflected on her journey in a LinkedIn post announcing her appointment as the new Newmont boss.
“Growing up in a South African mining family — my father was a winding engine driver — my passion for this industry was shaped from an early age,” she wrote.
“Over a 30+ year career, I’ve had the privilege of working next to operators and maintainers in the mines and processing plants, serving in leadership, technical and operational roles, seeing firsthand the dedication, pride and ownership that our industry teams bring to their work every day,” she said.
“Tom Palmer leaves a lasting mark on Newmont’s century-old legacy of transformation and responsible mining leadership. I am grateful for his mentorship and the strong foundation he’s built.”
From COO to CEO: Unlocking value at Newmont
Viljoen’s role as Newmont COO involved the integration of acquired assets, portfolio optimisation and talent development, among other responsibilities.
She said Newmont is well positioned for further growth.
“We have assembled the industry’s strongest portfolio of long-life gold and copper assets, which we are determined to manage safely and effectively,” Viljoen said in a statement.
“We will combine operational excellence, cost discipline and judicious capital allocation to ensure strong financial performance, systematically unlocking more value for shareholders and stakeholders alike. Together with our employees, we will shape a Newmont that is stronger, simpler and more resilient.”
Newmont is valued at $95bn (R1.6-trillion).
Palmer said: “I am confident that Natascha and Newmont will seize the many opportunities that lie ahead for our business.”
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