OREANDA-NEWS. On September 11, Norilsk Nickel announced the appointment of Peter Breese as Chief Executive of Norilsk Nickel’s international mining and metallurgical operations. The international mining and metallurgical operations form part of the
Mining and Metallurgical business unit headed by Deputy General Director, Tav Morgan and includes the recently acquired mining, processing and refining operations spanning Finland, Australia, Botswana and South Africa with an employee base of approximately 3,500 including contractors.

As part of the international executive team, Antti Aaltonen will continue in his role as Managing Director of Norilsk Nickel Finland. Gerhard Potgieter will be the Managing Director of Norilsk Nickel Africa. Ian Purdy, previously the Director – Finance & Strategy in Australia, will take up the role of Managing Director Norilsk Nickel Australia. Gary Johnson will be Managing Director of Norilsk Process Technology, which was formerly LionOre Technology and is responsible for the development of the innovative Activox® hydrometallurgical process.

Commenting on the announcement, Tav Morgan said “The creation of this strong, internationally focused executive team marks an important step in Norilsk Nickel’s development as we continue to strengthen our leadership position in the global mining and metals industry.The international operations have an exciting future ahead with a combination of nickel sulphide and laterite operations, a solid resource base, a strong production growth profile and a highly experienced management team, supported by a portfolio of processing technologies.”