Dominion Diamond appoints Jim Gowans as non-executive Chairman its BoD

Dominion Diamond Corporation announced the retirement of Mr. Robert Gannicott as Chairman of Dominion Diamond Corporation, and would remain as a director of the company. Further, the Board announced the appointment of Mr. Jim Gowans as non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors with immediate effect. Mr. Gowans was appointed to the Board of Directors (BoD) of the Company on January 13, 2016.

Brendan Bell, Chief Executive Officer, commented: “On behalf of the executive team, I welcome Jim to his role as Chairman and I look forward to working with him. Jim’s extensive knowledge of the global diamond industry and mining, coupled with his operating experience of working in Canada’s North will complement the management team as we continue to realize the full potential of Dominion’s world-class diamond assets.”

Mr. Gowans holds extensive operational experience in most aspects of the mining industry, including exploration, major projects, operations and human resources as well as extensive leadership experience both in Canada and internationally. Mr. Gowans is currently President and Chief Executive Officer for Arizona Mining Inc. Previously he held senior roles with Barrick Gold Corporation, Debswana Diamond Company, DeBeers Canada Inc. He is a former Chair of the Mining Association of Canada (MAC), and is the Past-President of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM).

Dan Jarvis, Lead Independent Director, commented: “I would like to extend the Board's deep appreciation to Bob for his invaluable leadership and tireless contribution over the past twelve years as Chairman of Dominion. He has been instrumental in building this company from a junior exploration company to the world’s third largest diamond producer and a true Canadian success story. We are pleased that with Bob remaining on the Board, he will continue to make a valuable contribution to the company as it moves forward and the company will continue to benefit from his extensive expertise.” The company has also appointed Mr. David Smith has been appointed as Chairman of the Audit Committee.