Blockchain-powered ecosystem for traceable and ethically sourced gold Responsible Gold has announced the appointment of Sakhila Mirza as its president.

She will oversee the firm’s next phase of growth, with a focus on advancing the practical implementation of responsible sourcing frameworks, supporting innovation across Responsible Gold’s digital offerings.

Mirza previously served as London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) deputy CEO and general counsel for over a decade, where she led initiatives on responsible sourcing, market integrity and standards development. She played a key role in shaping global policies aimed at improving trust and transparency within the gold supply chain.

‘‘Sakhila will be greatly missed but she leaves behind a lasting legacy, and we wish her all the best in her new role,’’ LBMA CEO Ruth Crowell said in response to Mining Weekly.
 
LBMA sets the standards for the purity, form, and provenance of gold and silver bars used in the wholesale market and one of its leading referees is Rand Refinery of South Africa. 

Rand Refinery, as the owner of one of the world's largest integrated single-site precious metals refining and smelting complexes, is mitigating environmental impact by introducing renewable energy, with the South African gold refiner intent on reducing carbon emissions by 9 000 t to 11 000 t through growing its solar PV plant to a capacity of at least 5.4 MW. 

Importantly, the certified gold and silver chain-of-custody of the Rand Refinery, which was established in Germiston in 1920, is independently audited.

“It’s an exciting time for the gold market when it comes to market innovation and what’s coming down the pipeline for future growth. Rather than just reading about it or having discussions on it, actually being involved, rolling your sleeves up and leading on it, this felt like the right opportunity,” Mirza said on May 19.

In her new role at Responsible Gold, she will help to define operational goals, develop key performance indicators and guide the firm’s efforts to expand industry engagement.

She will also support the launch of new offerings, including a fund closely aligned with the firm’s sourcing principles.

Mirza has also been named portfolio manager at Pandion Asset Management, a US Securities and Exchange-registered investment adviser. 

“[Mirza] is one of the most respected voices in responsible sourcing and her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to build a gold ecosystem rooted in transparency, traceability and trust.

“Her experience setting global standards and driving regulatory alignment across the sector makes her an ideal fit to help advance our mission and scale our solutions worldwide,” Responsible Gold chairperson Brent de Jong said.

Her early priorities include addressing existing achievements across the Responsible Gold ecosystem and contributing to the company’s long-term vision of becoming a trusted partner for market participants seeking responsible supply chains.