Newmont Axes Leadership Jobs in Cost-Cutting Frenzy
Newmont Corporation (TSX: NGT) has announced significant management layoffs and a reorganization of its business units as it grapples with operational challenges and investor dissatisfaction. This major corporate restructuring comes in the wake of disappointing financial results and the ambitious $15 billion acquisition of Newcrest Mining in 2023.
Nearly a dozen managers, including a high-ranking executive, have been dismissed as part of Newmont’s restructuring efforts, according to individuals with knowledge of the matter. The company has consolidated its five global operational units into three, effectively merging the Australia and Africa divisions with those overseeing operations in North America and East Asia.
This reorganization is aimed at streamlining the company’s reporting structure and enhancing efficiency, marking a departure from its previous standalone regional oversight model.
In an emailed statement, a Newmont spokesperson emphasized the rationale behind these changes: “Following the Newcrest acquisition and progress with our key divestments, we are continuing to execute our strategy focused on a portfolio of Tier 1 assets and projects. An integral part of this strategy is to ensure that we have an organization that is fit-for-purpose from operational, functional, and cost perspectives, and our business is well positioned for long-term success.”
Newmont’s acquisition of Newcrest Mining was heralded as a strategic move to expand its portfolio with high-value gold and copper assets. However, the integration has proven costly, with the company struggling to manage expenses across its operations in Australia, Canada, Peru, and Papua New Guinea.
The acquisition also involved the divestment of smaller, less profitable mines in Australia, Canada, and Ghana, signaling a shift toward a more concentrated portfolio of top-performing assets. Despite these moves, operational inefficiencies and escalating costs have hindered the company’s ability to fully capitalize on surging gold prices.
The gold market has experienced a robust rally, with prices up roughly 30% year-to-date, fueled by U.S. interest rate cuts and increased central bank purchases. However, Newmont’s stock has failed to reflect this bullish trend, posting only modest gains in comparison.
According to insiders, CEO Tom Palmer has faced private rebukes from top investors since the release of Newmont’s third-quarter earnings report in October. The report highlighted rising production costs and missed opportunities to leverage the favorable market conditions.
The restructuring underscores the pressure on Newmont to address investor concerns and improve operational performance. By focusing on its Tier 1 assets—defined as large, low-cost, and long-life mining operations—the company aims to deliver long-term value and maintain its status as an industry leader.
Newmont last traded at $59.70 on the TSX.
Information for this briefing was found via Mining.com and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
