London, Ontario — January 15, 2026 — Leads & Copy — Abitibi Metals Corp. has appointed David Bernier as Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. Bernier brings over 30 years of experience advancing mining projects across Canada from development through construction and into operations.
Mr. Bernier most recently served as Chief Operating Officer of Foran Mining Corporation, where he led the advancement of the McIlvenna Bay polymetallic deposit from feasibility through detailed engineering and into construction. In that role, he integrated permitting, mine design, processing, tailings management, infrastructure, Indigenous engagement, and execution planning into a financeable development program.
Prior to Foran, Mr. Bernier served as Canadian Country Manager for Pan American Silver, overseeing multiple operating assets in the Timmins region. He previously held senior site leadership roles at the Bell Creek Complex, including Project Manager, Mine Manager, and General Manager.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Bernier was General Manager of Dumas Contracting, providing mine development and contracting services to leading global miners including Alamos Gold, Glencore, Vale, and Newmont. Mr. Bernier has also held senior operational roles at assets owned by KGHM International and Glencore.
According to Jonathon Deluce, Chief Executive Officer of Abitibi Metals, the appointment is a pivotal moment for Abitibi Metals. Deluce notes that high-quality, high-grade critical mineral assets are in short supply, particularly in stable jurisdictions like Québec. He believes Bernier brings the mine-building experience and operational discipline needed to convert the B26 critical minerals asset into long-term value.
Bernier commented that Abitibi has assembled a rare, high-grade polymetallic asset in one of the best mining jurisdictions in the world, and he sees a clear opportunity to move B26 from ongoing exploration success into a structured, executable development pathway.
Abitibi Metals Corp. is focused on acquiring and exploring mineral properties within Quebec, with a particular emphasis on high-quality base and precious metal assets. The company’s flagship B26 Polymetallic project, optioned from SOQUEM, hosts a resource base of 11.3Mt Indicated at 2.13% CuEq and 7.2Mt Inferred at 2.21% CuEq. Abitibi’s portfolio also includes the Beschefer Gold project.
The Company has granted 400,000 incentive stock options to certain officers of the Company, exercisable at $0.55 per common share for a period of 5 years.
Contact:
Jonathon Deluce, Chief Executive Officer
+1-226-271-5170
info@abitibimetals.com
Source: Abitibi Metals Corp.
