1. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN IR?
I’ve been doing IR for the last 11 years of my career, always in mining.
2. WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE IR?
After completing my bachelor’s degree, I wanted to work with disabled children. But my first entry-level position happened to be in IR and generated my passion for the field.
3. WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS?
I studied psychology and political science at Trent University and continued my education at the University of Toronto and Ivey School of Business. I also completed the essentials of IR course through CIRI.
4. HOW IS YOUR TEAM SET UP?
We don’t have an IR team at Excellon. I lead the program but it’s all hands on deck when it comes to investor matters. Despite hectic travel schedules, our management team makes an effort to connect weekly to discuss progress in each department.
5. HOW MANY ROADSHOWS AND INVESTOR CONFERENCES DO YOU TAKE PART IN EACH YEAR?
Last year we did seven investor conferences and 18 non-deal roadshows. Given the cyclical nature of our business in some years we’ve had to get creative with our marketing strategy. We make an effort to be on the road a few times per quarter.
6. DO YOU HOLD INVESTOR DAYS?
No, but we always host a small reception after our AGM to use the time effectively, as our board and management are present. Our operations are in Mexico so we focus on site visits that allow our shareholders to see our progress firsthand and spend quality time with our technical teams.
7. DO YOU USE SOCIAL MEDIA AS PART OF YOUR IR PROGRAM?
We’re active Twitter and LinkedIn users. Facebook is also used to connect with members of our local community in Mexico.
8. DO YOU RECEIVE SUPPORT FROM ANY EXTERNAL IR FIRMS?
We have worked with a few IR firms to broaden our reach, particularly with setting up roadshows.
9. WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR QUESTION FROM ANALYSTS AND INVESTORS RIGHT NOW?
Where we see the most potential for longer-term growth. For us, that’s through the drill bit and making discoveries.
10. HAS MIFID II IMPACTED YOUR IR PROGRAM?
Yes, we are no longer able to rely on our brokers to set up roadshows, and we readily share research with shareholders in the UK and Europe.
11. WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF YOUR IR CAREER?
Dealing with the cyclical nature of our business. On the downside, we’ve had to get creative with our IR program, while being mindful of costs and ensuring all investors receive the same engagement.
12. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOING INVESTOR RELATIONS?
I appreciate the networking aspect as I have developed strong relationships with professionals across various sectors.
13. AND YOUR LEAST FAVORITE?
While I try my best to reach all my shareholders individually, there are moments where time is limited and it’s difficult to get to everyone.
14. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING OUTSIDE WORK?
I am a board member of the Down Syndrome Association of Toronto, a charitable organization that works to maximize the potential and integration of affected individuals.
15. IF YOU COULD PASS ON ONE IR LESSON, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Seek opportunities for professional development, whether through CIRI or taking a finance or technical course. It builds confidence and credibility.
This article originally appeared in the Summer 2019 issue of IR Magazine.
