KEY POINTS
- Michael McCann will become CEO of Torngat Metals on October 13.
- The appointment comes as the company advances its Strange Lake rare earths project in Quebec.
- The project could help strengthen Canada’s supply of critical rare earth elements.
Canadian rare earths development company Torngat Metals has appointed mining executive Michael McCann as its new chief executive officer, effective October 13, 2026.
McCann joins the company at a critical stage in the development of its Strange Lake rare earths project in Quebec, Canada. The project has completed an updated feasibility study demonstrating its technical and economic viability, while environmental impact assessment work is approaching completion.
The milestones follow years of engineering, environmental studies and engagement with stakeholders as Torngat works to move the project towards its next phase of development.
His appointment is expected to strengthen the company’s leadership as it seeks to advance the project and respond to growing demand for reliable supplies of rare earth elements used in advanced manufacturing and strategic industries.
Experienced mining executive
McCann brings more than 30 years of executive experience in the mining industry, with a track record of managing complex operations across Canada, particularly in Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Before joining Torngat Metals, he served as president and CEO of the Iron Ore Company of Canada, where he led one of the country’s largest integrated mining, railway and port operations.
His experience managing large-scale industrial operations is expected to support Torngat as it addresses the technical, commercial and stakeholder challenges associated with developing the Strange Lake project.
The company also highlighted McCann’s experience in building teams, maintaining high safety standards and working with governments, Indigenous communities and local stakeholders.
These relationships will be important as the project progresses through environmental assessments, regulatory processes and other development requirements.
Maryse Bélanger, who has served as interim CEO and chairperson, will work closely with McCann to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
Following the handover, she will remain chairperson of Torngat Metals, providing continuity at board level as the company moves into the next stage of the project’s development.
Bélanger welcomed McCann’s appointment, describing him as a respected mining leader whose operational experience and commitment to safety, employees and partnerships would benefit the company.
