Gold Corp boss quits for Perth Airport role

Gold Corporation boss Jason Waters has resigned from his position leading the embattled Perth Mint to become chief executive officer of Perth Airport. 

Mr Waters had been in the role for just over a year and is expected to start with Perth Airport after serving a period of notice.

Perth Mint chairman Sam Walsh said he was disappointed to accept Mr Waters’ resignation and commended his leadership during a challenging period for the organisation. 

“On behalf of the board, I thank Jason for the work he has done for [mint operator] Gold Corporation in the time he has been here,” Mr Walsh said.

“He has made a significant and positive impact and we are sorry to see Jason go."

The outgoing chief executive said leading Perth Mint had been a challenging but rewarding experience.

"The Perth Mint is working hard to meet its obligations to the WA community, the goldmining sector and its business partners and customers around the world," Mr Waters said. 

His departure follows a tumultuous period for The Perth Mint, which has recently had to face questions about a particular gold alloying program, with the broader organisation also currently subject to a strategic review by the state government.

In April, it was announced the Department of Treasury planned to engage a commercial advisor to consider options to manage the state’s risks in relation to its ownership of Gold Corp.

The options analysis was tipped to include the extent to which its ownership structure aligns with state-Government goals.

Meanwhile, an AUSTRAC investigation to assess Gold Corp's compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism finance rules is ongoing.

Perth Airport chair Rob Cole welcomed Mr Waters to his new role, describing him as a respected leader known for working methodically through complex situations. 

"Jason is a respected leader in Western Australia who is known for his strategic focus and his ability to deliver outcomes in highly challenging business environments," Mr Cole said. 

"Perth Airport is a multi-faceted business ... Jason will bring his own strategic and business insights to this complex role."

The incoming CEO will be tasked with leading a raft of projects at the airport including a new runway and a planned consolidation of flights into a central precinct. 

Prior to leading The Perth Mint, Mr Waters was chief executive of Synergy. 

St John WA boss Kevin Brown stepped down as chief executive of Perth Airport in November 2022, with the organisation overseen by acting CEO Kate Holsgrove since.