Highlands Pacific has appointed a new management team for its flagship gold operation at Kainantu in Papua New Guinea.

Highlands managing director John Gooding says a priority task of the new team will be a thorough review of the gold resource and reserve position as well as the mine plan at Kainantu, to establish a reliable schedule of gold production.

David Whittle has been appointed general manager. He is a mining engineer with extensive experience in the management and operation of gold and base metal mines in Australia and Africa.

The mine manager is Gary Varley who has had wide experience in underground gold mining operations in Australia and Africa.

Mill Manager is Bill Reid who has had a long involvement in the efficient operation and management of gold and floatation plants in Australia and overseas, including a period in PNG.

Peter Scerri is maintenance manager and will be responsible for all underground mining and milling equipment, as well as the infrastructure. He has extensive experience in Australia, South America and Africa, and has worked in PNG for a period.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS - Macarthur CEO appointed managing director

Nicole Hollows has been appointed managing director of Macarthur Coal and will remain as the company's chief executive officer.

Macarthur Coal chairman Keith De Lacy says Nicole Hollows brings 15 years of experience in the coal mining and resources industry to the board and the company, and he expects her to make significant contributions to the strategic management of the company.

"Nicole is highly regarded within the company and in the professional community. With her background in finance and experience in the sector, Nicole will provide an additional level of expertise to the Board."

In addition, Keith De Lacy says: "Ken Talbot, founder and former managing director and chief executive officer, will not resume executive duties with Macarthur Coal and its associated companies. Ken has decided after more than 20 years, that it is time for the next generation of management to become fully engaged.

"Ken is held in very high regard throughout the industry, and has been a stalwart of the Queensland mining and business sectors for the past 20 years. He built Macarthur Coal into the successful business it is today and, although he will not be resuming executive duties, the board is delighted that the company will still have access to his experience and expertise through his role as a non-executive director."