Muller Leaves, Schubert Retires as K92 Mining Sets Leadership Changes

By: Roselyn Erehe February 03, 2025

Stanley Komunt, K92 Inc. new General Manager, External Affairs

K92 Mining Ltd. has announced a series of leadership changes and highlighted the significant contributions of Dr. Chris Muller and Dr. Mark Schubert, both of whom have played instrumental roles in the company’s achievements.

Dr. Chris Muller, who joined K92 in 2016, most recently served as the Executive Vice President – Exploration. Dr. Muller was a member of the team in the discovery of Kora North, a significant achievement recognized with the 2021 Thayer Lindsley Award for Best Global Discovery from the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada.

His efforts also led to the discovery of the Blue Lake porphyry, which in 2022 delivered a maiden 10.8 million ounces of gold equivalent (AuEq) in inferred resources.

Reflecting on Muller’s contributions, K92 CEO and Director John Lewins said, “I want to express my gratitude to Chris Muller for his very significant contribution to our exploration success.”

The company extended its best wishes to Dr. Muller in his future endeavors.

Dr. Schubert, who joined K92 in 2019 as General Manager, External Affairs and Sustainable Development, has announced his retirement. He spearheaded engagement efforts and sustainable development programs with local communities, earning K92 Mining multiple ESG Industry Awards from the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy. These awards include:

  • The 2024 Award in Recognition of Outstanding Community Humanitarian Initiative for the Sustainable Livelihoods Agricultural Program.
  • The 2023 Award in Recognition of Outstanding Community Humanitarian Initiative for the Women-in-Mining Program, which focused on empowerment initiatives such as upskilling and preventative healthcare.
  • The 2022 Award for Outstanding Women’s Contribution in the Resources Industry for the Women-in-Mining Program, particularly its adult literacy efforts.

Recognizing Dr. Schubert’s achievements, John Lewins said: “While Mark Schubert will still be with us for some months, I would also like to recognize his exceptional contribution and initiatives within our local communities. We wish him well in his well-deserved retirement.”

As part of its ongoing operations, K92 Mining has made new leadership appointments. Heidi Grobler, who has been with the company for over three years, has been promoted to a leadership role as Vice President Human Resources.

Lewins commended her performance, stating: “Over the past three years, Heidi Grobler has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, resourcefulness, and the ability to excel in many roles, making her a natural fit for this promotion.”

Additionally, the company welcomed Stanley Komunt, who brings extensive expertise in community and government relations in PNG, having worked with Newcrest and Newmont. Lewins expressed enthusiasm about his appointment, highlighting Komunt’s contributions to the team.

To ensure continuity in exploration leadership, Andrew Kohler will serve as Interim Vice President, Exploration. Kohler has been with K92 for over eight years, making significant contributions to the company.

Lewins said: “We are well-positioned to ensure continuity and leadership during this transitional period while we evaluate the long-term needs of the role.”

Lewins emphasized K92’s commitment to growth and innovation, saying: “As K92 Mining continues to grow and evolve, the leadership changes announced today reflect our firm commitment to building a strong, dynamic team capable of driving our success well into the future.”

“Congratulations to Heidi, Stanley, and Andrew on their appointments, and I look forward to their continued contributions as we build on our achievements and pursue the exciting opportunities ahead.”


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