AuMEGA Metals Appoints Rafael Gradim as President to Lead Newfoundland Exploration

Leadership Change at AuMEGA Metals

AuMEGA Metals Ltd (ASX:AAM) has announced a sudden leadership change with Michael Skead stepping down as President effective immediately for personal reasons. The company has appointed Rafael Gradim to take over the role, starting 1 August 2026. Gradim will be based in Toronto and will assume full accountability for AuMEGA’s exploration activities across its substantial land holdings in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Gradim’s Extensive Mining and Exploration Expertise

Rafael Gradim is a seasoned mining executive and geologist, boasting more than 22 years of experience spanning grassroots exploration, resource definition, mine geology, corporate development, and private equity. His career highlights include advancing major gold projects from early exploration to production, conducting technical due diligence on hundreds of mineral assets worldwide, and playing pivotal roles in mining acquisitions.

Prior to joining AuMEGA, Gradim held senior roles such as Technical Leader, Strategy at Vale Base Metals, Director of Geology at Resource Capital Funds, and Director of Corporate Development – Technical Evaluations at Eldorado Gold. His blend of technical depth and strategic insight positions him to lead AuMEGA’s exploration strategy effectively.

Strategic Focus on Newfoundland’s District-Scale Gold Potential

AuMEGA’s portfolio includes a 110-kilometre stretch along the Cape Ray-Valentine Shear Zone, Newfoundland’s largest identified gold structure, hosting the company’s Mineral Resource alongside Equinox Gold’s Valentine Gold Project. The company also controls a 27-kilometre segment of the Hermitage Flexure, another highly prospective geological feature.

Gradim emphasized the district-scale opportunity presented by AuMEGA’s Newfoundland assets, highlighting the company’s strong shareholder base and experienced board as foundations to unlock value through disciplined, technically driven exploration. This appointment comes as AuMEGA prepares to advance its exploration programs following recent capital raises that have bolstered funding for drilling and resource expansion C$30.1 million financing round.

Acknowledging Skead’s Contributions and Looking Ahead

Managing Director and CEO Sam Pazuki expressed appreciation for Skead’s leadership and technical contributions, which helped solidify the company’s exploration platform and strategic direction. The transition to Gradim signals a renewed focus on leveraging technical expertise and strategic judgment to prioritise high-impact exploration targets.

With a Mineral Resource comprising 6.2 million tonnes at 2.25 g/t gold (450,000 ounces indicated) and 3.4 million tonnes at 1.44 g/t gold (160,000 ounces inferred), AuMEGA’s Newfoundland portfolio remains a compelling exploration story. Gradim’s leadership will be critical in navigating the next phase of growth and unlocking further value from these assets.