Mineral Resources Development Company Limited (MRDC) has announced key appointments to its executive leadership team, reaffirming the Board’s commitment to strong governance and long‑term value creation for landowners and provincial stakeholders.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Augustine Mano said the strengthened executive structure reflects MRDC’s focus on organisational readiness, disciplined investment and enhanced governance as the company continues to grow in scale and portfolio.
“For five decades, MRDC has carried the responsibility of safeguarding and growing landowner and provincial equity on behalf of Papua New Guinea,” Mr. Mano said. “These appointments demonstrate the depth of leadership within MRDC and our commitment to disciplined investment, strong governance, and sustained community benefit.”
Among the appointments, MRDC has made history with the elevation of Ms. Valentina Kaman to Chief Risk Officer (CRO), the first female executive to join MRDC’s C‑suite. Ms. Kaman previously served as General Manager – Legal and Compliance, where she supported governance, compliance, and risk oversight across the Group.
Mr. Mano said the creation and elevation of the Chief Risk Officer role is the Board’s recognition that risk management and compliance is MRDC’s most critical priorities as the Group’s investments and subsidiary portfolio expand.
“Ms Kaman is a lawyer by background with over 15 years’ experience in the oil and gas sector, spanning both public and private institutions. Ms. Kaman’s appointment strengthens MRDC’s ability to identify, manage and mitigate enterprise‑wide risks ensuring the highest standards of compliance across the Group,” Mr. Mano said.
The MRDC executive leadership team comprises:
- Mr. John Tuaim – Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Investments Officer
- Mr. Richard Aupae – Chief Legal Officer
- Mr. Simon D. Woolcott – Chief Financial Officer
- Mr. Vele Rupa – Chief Operating Officer
- Ms. Valentina Kaman – Chief Risk Officer
The executive team will continue to lead MRDC in delivering sustainable economic and social outcomes for landowners and provinces.
