The current non-executive chairman Edward McDermott will remain as a non-executive director.

Connelly has around 30 years' experience in global mining project finance, development, construction and operation. He was most recently managing director and CEO of Papillon Resources, which was sold to B2Gold in 2014.

Prior to this, he was managing director of Adamus Resources, where he played a key role in its merger with Endeavour Mining in 2011, becoming COO of the merged entity.

Connelly is also non-executive chairman of West African Resources, Tao Commodities and Calidus Resources.

He is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the Australian Institute of Management and the Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration.