Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc, a leading player in the Southern African mining sector, has announced the appointment of Stefan Buys and Lesley Goldwasser as independent non-executive directors, effective immediately. These appointments mark a strategic expansion of the company’s leadership team, reinforcing its operational expertise and financial acumen as it continues its growth trajectory in the region.
Johan Holtzhausen, who has served on the board since 2013, will retire from his position and as chair of the Audit Committee at the company’s forthcoming annual general meeting (AGM) in May 2025. His successor in the Audit Committee chair role will be Ms Tariro Gadzikwa, an independent non-executive director with significant financial experience.
Stefan Buys brings over three decades of leadership experience across various mining and heavy industry sectors. His career spans global operations in copper, gold, iron ore, uranium, ferrochrome, and platinum, covering regions including Southern and Western Africa, Canada, Australia, and South America. His most recent role was as Chief Executive Officer of ArcelorMittal’s Mining Division. Prior to that, he held a key leadership position at Rio Tinto, managing its Pilbara iron ore mining operations in Western Australia. Additionally, Mr Buys has served in executive roles at BHP, overseeing major projects, and has experience with Xstrata, where he progressed to Chief Operating Officer for North Chile.
With a background in metallurgical engineering and professional qualifications from the Institute of Directors in the UK, Mr Buys’ technical expertise and strategic insight are expected to provide valuable contributions to Caledonia Mining’s long-term operational strategy.
Lesley Goldwasser, an experienced financial executive, joins the board with a wealth of knowledge in global capital markets and structured finance. Currently, she serves as Managing Partner at GreensLedge, a boutique investment bank with operations in capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, and asset management. She is also the Co-CEO and Founder of GreensLedge Korea.
Ms Goldwasser’s extensive career in investment banking includes senior roles at Credit Suisse, where she led the Asset-Backed Securities division and Global Hedge Fund Strategic Services, and at Bear Stearns, where she co-headed the Global Debt and Equity Capital Markets division. Her financial expertise is complemented by her board experience at major institutions, including serving as Lead Independent Director at Tiptree Inc. and as an independent director at Liquid Telecommunications.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Ms Goldwasser is deeply committed to community development in Zimbabwe. She co-founded Zara’s Center, an initiative providing education, vocational training, and essential services to vulnerable children in the country. Originally from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, she holds a degree from the University of Cape Town.
John Kelly, Chairman of Caledonia Mining, expressed his enthusiasm about the new appointments:
*”We are delighted to welcome Stefan and Lesley to the board. Stefan’s extensive expertise in large-scale mining operations, combined with his background in metallurgical engineering, will be an invaluable addition to our leadership team. His experience in operational excellence and commitment to environmental and safety standards align well with our corporate values.
Lesley’s impressive track record in global capital markets and financial structuring will provide significant support to our growth strategy. Her knowledge of complex financing mechanisms and engagement with institutional investors will be instrumental as we advance our business.
On behalf of the board, I would also like to extend our deepest appreciation to Johan Holtzhausen for his decade of service, insights, and leadership. His contributions have been invaluable, and we wish him success in his future endeavours.”*
These appointments come at a crucial time for Caledonia Mining as it strengthens its governance framework and operational leadership. The inclusion of individuals with extensive experience in mining operations and international financial markets signals the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and operational efficiency.
As the company progresses towards expanding its mining activities and securing financial stability, the addition of Mr Buys and Ms Goldwasser is expected to enhance Caledonia’s strategic direction. Investors and industry stakeholders will be closely monitoring how these new appointments influence the company’s next phase of development.
