Mr Duffy will retain his CFO role while stepping into the CEO position, left vacant by Phil Day who has declared his intention to return to Australia.

With more than 25 years of industry experience, Mr Duffy has a robust history of aiding both multinational and junior mining firms in growing their operations from construction phase to production. His expertise spans several senior financial positions within BHP Billiton’s global network, including stints as finance director and interim CEO of BHP Billiton Indonesia, where he managed multi-stage coal operations.

In his past roles, he also held the joint position of CFO and company secretary for a number of mining companies, including ASX and UK-listed Adriatic Metals Plc, TSX-V and ASX-listed Black Dragon Gold, and TSX-V-listed Asian Mineral Resources. He also served in these roles for AIM-listed Anglo Asian Mining Plc, where he supported the company’s early-stage gold production at its Gedabek mine in Azerbaijan. This operation was developed into a producer of around 50,000 ounces of gold per annum during Mr Duffy’s tenure.

Peter Hetherington, Scotgold Resources chairman, said: “With significant mining expertise, Sean will step into the role of interim CEO until a permanent replacement is appointed.

“Sean, has the knowledge, relationships, and expertise to manage on-going workstreams, ensuring continuity in our operations to drive the long hole stope mine plan and development of our Cononish gold mine towards full production.”