Mr Brannigan has been in the acting role since January, and has been with Newcrest since 2018 when he joined as underground development manager.

He's steered the site during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw disruption across the mining industry.

He's also actively supported the establishment and implementation of the Newcrest Community Support Fund which has allowed him to meet many community members.

"While the past couple of months have been challenging for all, it has been an excellent opportunity to get out and about and meet so many dedicated people in our community," Mr Brannigan said.

"I am extremely proud of the commitment of our workforce in ensuring the health and wellbeing of themselves, their families and their workmates, while also contributing to keeping our community safe during these unprecedented times."

Mr Brannigan has 30 years' experience in the mining industry across Southern Africa, Canada, Peru, Laos and Australia.

Prior to joining Newcrest, Aaron was the group manager of mining operations at MMG and has had senior roles at St Barbara, Barrick and Rio Tinto.

"Cadia is a world class mining asset and one that I feel honoured to be a part of," he said.

"I look forward to working together to deliver Cadia's future while continuing to add value to the communities in which we operate and live."

Mr Brannigan, along with his wife Jane, son Henry and two rottweilers, have set up their life on a small farm just outside of Orange, and have spent the past two years enjoying all that the Central West has to offer.

"We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to live and work in such a beautiful community and look forward to continuing to explore this wonderful region," Aaron said.

While Cadia has welcomed a new General Manager, we have farewelled Peter Sharpe, general Manager at Cadia for the past three years. He played an important role in maintaining Cadia a world class mining operation.

Mr Sharpe has been appointed the General Manager at Newcrest's Lihir Operations in Papua New Guinea. We wish him and his family all the very best as he takes on this new opportunity.