New independent director Chris Stone has been appointed acting managing director of Black Cat Syndicate.
Tuesday’s update follows news yesterday in a brief ASX statement that MD James Bruce – who began his tenure on February 11 – had departed the company.
Black Cat did not elaborate on the reason for Mr Bruce’s sudden departure, aside from stating “the board consider a change in leadership to be in the best interests of the company at this time”.
Company chair Paul Chapman said Mr Stone – an experienced mining stalwart who has been recently tasked with leading the company’s life of mine planning and strategic pathways from a strategic perspective – was an ideal fit for Black Cat’s transition period.
“I am pleased to announce that Chris has agreed to fill the role of acting managing director until such time as a permanent appointment is made,” Mr Chapman said.
“Chris will also be instrumental in the process of finding an appropriate replacement.
“Chris has a strong focus on leadership, performance, accountability, planning and safety.”
Mr Bruce succeeded founding managing director Gareth Solly, who announced in November last year he was departing the goldminer. In May, Mr Solly began his tenure as Auric Mining chief executive.
In FY26, Black Cat posted a net profit of $86 million, up from a $26 million loss during the prior corresponding period, as the company's gold production rose by 132 per cent from 39,169oz to 90,833oz.
As of 1.35pm AWST, the goldminer's shares were up 1 per cent to $1.04.
