Since joining Kinross in 2022, Derek was recognized for his ability to engage with stakeholders and commitment to Kinross’ values .

Derek joined the Manh Choh team during a pivotal time for the project. He used his exceptional leadership skills and experience working and living in the community to act as a voice for Manh Choh, providing open, honest communication, and being relatable and approachable with our stakeholders, which quickly made him a recognizable face in the community.

As part of Derek’s role, he was selected to lead conversations between the Company and the Department of Transportation Advisory Committee to provide information on Manh Choh’s ore haul transportation plan to a committee with various backgrounds, beliefs and support positions. Derek was able to communicate the plan in a way that provided information, answered questions, accepted feedback, and ultimately was successful in bringing the ore haul transportation plan to life.

As a result of Derek’s leadership and resilience in building relations between Kinross and our stakeholders, Kinross Manh Choh successfully poured its first gold bar at the Fort Knox mill on July 8^th, 2024 – weighing 37.5 pounds and valued at US$1.4 million.

“Derek has invested so much time and effort in being a trusted face of Kinross Manh Choh in the community. He’s not only been able to connect the Kinross team with the public, he has helped people feel the Company can be trusted and would respect and respond to their needs and interests throughout the life of the project,” said Brenna Schaake, External Affairs Supervisor, Kinross Alaska.