Abitibi Metals Appoints Proven Mine Builder and Operator David Bernier as Chief Operating Officer

Executive Summary

• Abitibi Metals Corp. appoints David Bernier as Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately.
• Bernier brings >30 years of mine‑development experience, most recently COO of Foran Mining where he advanced the McIlvenna Bay polymetallic project to construction.
• The appointment is positioned as a key catalyst for advancing the B26 high‑grade polymetallic project toward development, financing and long‑term value creation.

Key Details

• Appointee: David Bernier – former COO of Foran Mining Corp., former Canadian Country Manager for Pan American Silver, former General Manager at Dumas Contracting.
• Experience Highlights:
• Led McIlvenna Bay project from feasibility to detailed engineering and construction.
• Integrated permitting, mine design, processing, tailings management, infrastructure, Indigenous engagement and execution planning.
• Oversaw multiple operating assets in Timmins for Pan American Silver; delivered mine‑development contracts for Alamos Gold, Glencore, Vale, Newmont.
• Strategic Rationale (CEO Quote): “Dave Bernier brings the mine‑building experience and operational discipline needed to convert a scarce, high‑grade critical minerals asset into long‑term value… his leadership materially strengthens our ability to advance B26.”
• COO Statement: Emphasizes moving B26 from exploration success to a structured development pathway, focusing on technical, operational and project foundations.
• Stock Options Grant: 400,000 incentive stock options issued to certain officers at an exercise price of $0.55 per share, vesting over five years per the company’s omnibus incentive plan.

Notable Quotes

“This is a pivotal moment for Abitibi Metals… opportunities like B26 are rare and advancing them responsibly requires proven execution.” – Jonathon Deluce, CEO
“My focus will be on strengthening the technical, operational, and project foundations so the Company can responsibly advance the asset toward development, financing, and long‑term value creation.” – David Bernier, COO