Ronald Gagel

How did you get your start in the mineral industry?

While between projects for the financial institution consulting practice of a major CPA firm in 1987, I did a couple of financial oriented assignments for Jim Gill, founder and CEO of Aur Resources. Despite not having any mining experience, Jim offered me a job in 1988 as Aur's senior financial person because he was confident I would learn and like the mining business. There appeared to me to be no downside because, if I didn't like mining, I could always go back to the consulting practice. I guess I learned the business and learned to love the mining industry as I spent the last 34 years of my working career in it.

What has been the most memorable experience of your career?

2000 - Led bank financing for acquisition of Quebrada Blanca mine in Chile which helped transform Aur. 2005 - Transaction whereby FNX consolidated a 100% ownership in its Sudbury land package. 2012 - One of cofounders of TMAC Resources leading to start-up of Hope Bay mine in Nunavut. 2013 - Recipient of the PDAC's Distinguished Service Award. 2019 - Designated as a Fellow Chartered Professional Accountant.