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Who’s Who at PDAC: A Comprehensive Guide

written by Tracy Hughes | November 28, 2024

As media partner for the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) Convention, taking place March 2-5, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, we are proud to support the world’s premier mineral exploration and mining event. With over 30,000 attendees from more than 130 countries, PDAC represents an unparalleled convergence of industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders.

Preparation is key for navigating this bustling convention, and understanding the organizational structure is essential for us as we submit requests for Investor.News interviews. Here is a comprehensive look at PDAC’s leadership, Board of Directors, and dedicated staff, who collectively ensure the event’s success.

PDAC: A World-Class Gathering

For newcomers and veterans alike, PDAC is a whirlwind of activity. Between the conference sessions, countless networking opportunities, and the vibrant array of parties and events, it’s nearly impossible to see and meet everyone you intend to. To navigate the PDAC maze successfully, prioritizing preparation is key. Over the next few months, we will be sharing a series of columns on how to create a perfect PDAC experience. Topics will include planning your schedule, maximizing networking, and hosting memorable events. Today, however, let’s tackle one of the most fundamental tasks: identifying who’s who at PDAC.

Leadership at PDAC

PDAC’s leadership team comprises accomplished professionals who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the organization. These individuals guide PDAC’s strategic initiatives, ensuring its continued success as the global leader in mineral exploration and development. Here’s a brief overview of PDAC’s key leaders:

Dr. Raymond Goldie, President – Dr. Raymond Goldie is a renowned geologist and financial analyst with a significant impact on Canada’s mining and financial sectors. As President of PDAC, he leverages his expertise to shape the industry’s future. He is also a celebrated author and the originator of the economic term “pinch point.”

Karen Rees, First Vice President – Karen Rees brings over 30 years of experience in mineral exploration, holding roles such as Project Geologist and Vice-President of Exploration. She has made significant contributions as a consultant and board member for junior exploration companies. Her leadership at PDAC focuses on advancing industry innovation and collaboration.

Scott Parsons, Second Vice President – Scott Parsons, Vice President of Exploration at Alamos Gold, has over 15 years of experience in senior exploration roles. He holds advanced degrees in geology and an MBA and is a Professional Geoscientist in Ontario and Manitoba. His diverse expertise strengthens PDAC’s strategic initiatives.

Lisa McDonald, Executive Director – Lisa McDonald has dedicated more than two decades to PDAC, playing a pivotal role in its growth and global recognition. Under her leadership, the PDAC Convention has become the world’s premier mining and mineral exploration event. She continues to drive the association’s operational and strategic goals.

Maria Avramova Milanova, Secretary & Director, Operations & Human Resources – Maria Avramova Milanova oversees PDAC’s operational and human resources functions, ensuring the organization runs smoothly. Her expertise supports PDAC’s mission to promote excellence in mineral exploration and development. She plays a vital role in managing the association’s internal processes.

James Lusby, Treasurer – James Lusby, a seasoned Assurance Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, has served as PDAC’s Treasurer since 2018. He brings extensive experience auditing public mining companies and a global perspective from his work with multinational clients. His financial expertise supports PDAC’s fiscal health and strategic objectives.

PDAC Board of Directors

The PDAC Board of Directors comprises leaders from diverse organizations across the resource and mining sectors. These individuals provide strategic guidance and ensure the association’s objectives are met. Below is the full list of current board members:

  • Rosario Astuvilca-Rojas: Inclusive Mining
  • Charles Beaudry: QC Copper and Gold Inc. (TSXV: QCCU)
  • Kurt Breede: The Bank of Nova Scotia (Scotiabank) (TSX: BNS)
  • MaryAnn Crichton: Hatch Ltd.
  • Conrad Dix: Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (TSX: AEM)
  • Siri Genik: BRIDGE©
  • David Harquail: Franco-Nevada Corporation (TSX: FNV)
  • Doris Hiam-Galvez: Hatch Ltd.
  • Mary Louise Hill: Lakehead University
  • Jessie Liu-Ernsting: G Mining Ventures Corp. (TSX: GMIN)
  • Gordon Maxwell: GJM Mining
  • Stuart McCracken: Teck Resources Limited (TSX: TECK.A, TECK.B)
  • David Murray: Resourceful Geoscience Solutions
  • Ellie Owens: E2Gold Inc. (TSXV: ETU)
  • Valerie Pascale: Modern Core
  • Jeff Swinoga: Exploits Discovery Corp. (CSE: NFLD)
  • Ciara Talbot: Vale Base Metals, a division of Vale S.A. (NYSE: VALE)
  • Kerem Usenmez: Volta Metals Ltd. (CSE: VLTA)
  • Mary-Carmen Vera: BluMetric Environmental Inc. (TSXV: BLM)
  • Valerie Wilson: SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd.

PDAC Staff

The PDAC staff is a dynamic team responsible for the operational success of the convention and the association’s year-round initiatives. Below is the detailed list of staff members and their roles for your quick access:

  • Ariya Andrighetti: Manager, Convention
  • Alexandra Armstrong: Analyst, Indigenous & Regulatory Affairs
  • Scott Barber: Senior Manager, Communications
  • Gillian Blakey: Coordinator, Convention Exhibits
  • Amy Buchanan: Manager, Convention Exhibits
  • Lynn Bodwell: Convention Marketing Lead
  • Curtis Byron: Web Coordinator, Communications
  • Christy Clough: Coordinator, Convention
  • Michael D’Amelio: Coordinator, Convention Programming
  • Sandra Doig: Coordinator, Membership
  • Lynda Joyet: Senior Manager, Convention Events & Sponsorship
  • Madina Kaytmazova: Manager, IT & Administration
  • Nicole Kulp: Analyst, Sustainability
  • Jeff Killeen: Director, Policy & Programs
  • Amit Kumaria: Manager, Business Development & Strategic Partnerships
  • Joan Marilyn Leslie: Chief Accountant
  • Romika Leslie: Coordinator, Sponsorship
  • Florence MacLeod: Manager, Member Engagement & Outreach
  • Ran Maoz: Analyst, Tax Policy & Capital Markets
  • Lisa McDonald: Executive Director
  • Krishana Michaud: Manager, Student & Early Career Program
  • Maria Avramova Milanova: Secretary, Director, Operations & Human Resources
  • Andrea Murdoch: Executive Assistant
  • Alissa Nardini: Coordinator, Convention Exhibits
  • Sarah Nazar: Manager, Convention Programming
  • Marion Olivier: Analyst, Critical Minerals, Geoscience & Innovation, Health & Safety
  • Maureen Owens: Coordinator, Convention Programming
  • Vinukshan Pathmanathan: Office Systems Coordinator
  • Addison Pennie: Coordinator, Student & Early Career Program
  • Nicole Sampson: Director, Convention
  • Steve Shapka: Analyst, Government Relations
  • Andy Stanleigh: Publications Editor & Designer
  • Kulpreet Thukral: Coordinator, Membership
  • Patricia Tucci: Coordinator, Convention Events & Sponsorship
  • Petrona Tulloch: Staff Accountant
  • Stefanie Wolf: Manager, Convention Operations
  • Alex Zhoravovich: Coordinator, Communications

PDAC Committees

The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) operates through a series of specialized committees, each dedicated to advancing specific facets of the mineral exploration and development industry. These committees harness the expertise of industry professionals to address challenges, develop strategies, and implement programs that align with PDAC’s mission. Below is an alphabetical list of PDAC’s committees:

  • Audit Committee
  • Awards Committee
  • Convention Planning Committee
  • Executive Committee
  • Finance and Taxation Committee
  • Geoscience and Innovation Committee
  • Governance & Nominating Committee
  • Health & Safety Committee
  • Human Resource Development Committee
  • Indigenous Affairs Committee
  • International Affairs Committee
  • Lands & Regulations Committee
  • Membership Committee
  • Public Affairs Committee
  • Securities Committee
  • Sustainability Committee

Each committee plays a vital role in shaping PDAC’s initiatives, ensuring the association remains responsive to the evolving needs of the industry. For detailed information about PDAC’s committees and their specific mandates, click here.

Final Thoughts

The success of the PDAC Convention is a testament to the collaborative efforts of its leadership, board members, and staff. By understanding who’s who, attendees (like me) can navigate the event more effectively, maximizing their networking and business opportunities.

Stay tuned for upcoming guides to help you plan your perfect PDAC experience!

Investor.News is booking interviews for PDAC 2025 effective now. Please send any email inquiries to [email protected], thank you.