First Nickel Inc. is undergoing a senior management change, after chief operating officer Gerry Bilodeau announced his intention to retire.
Bilodeau is retiring following five years with the company and 42 years in the mining industry, after successfully bringing Lockerby Mine back online. He will remain involved with the company in the role of senior advisor.
"Gerry has been instrumental in the startup of the Lockerby Depth project and has been a tireless champion for safety and responsible mining,” Thomas M. Boehlert, president and CEO, said in a news release. “He leaves behind a strong, capable operations team. Our company and its employees have all benefited from Gerry’s efforts, and we wish him the very best in his retirement. We are also delighted that Gerry will continue to be involved with First Nickel, ensuring a smooth transition.”
The position of COO will be replaced by a vice-president of operations role. Sean Samson, vice-president and head of corporate development, will fill the position on an interim basis.
Cliff Lafleur has been promoted to the position of Lockerby Mine manager and will report to the VP of operations.
First Nickel is focusing its efforts on production at the Lockerby nickel-copper mine, which is expected to produce 10 million pounds of nickel and seven million pounds of copper annually, once it reaches full production in 2012.
The company additionally owns exploration properties in the Sudbury Basin, the Timmins area and the Belmont region of eastern Ontario.
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