NOVAGOLD Bolsters Donlin Gold Development Team with Key Leadership Appointment
Vancouver, British Columbia – January 13, 2026 – NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC. (NYSE American, TSX: NG) announced a significant strategic addition to its leadership team with the appointment of Frank Arcese as Project Director for Donlin Gold LLC, effective January 13, 2026. This move underscores NOVAGOLD’s commitment to advancing the Donlin Gold project, one of the world’s premier undeveloped gold assets, towards a development decision.
Arcese brings over four decades of extensive global experience in leading and executing large-scale mining and power infrastructure projects, particularly within challenging remote jurisdictions. His proven expertise is expected to be instrumental in the meticulous preparation and execution of the upcoming Bankable Feasibility Study (BFS) for Donlin Gold. He will be responsible for overseeing critical aspects including project planning, the overarching execution strategy, organizational readiness, and ensuring robust alignment with NOVAGOLD’s long-term strategic objectives for the Donlin Gold asset.
Prior to joining NOVAGOLD, Arcese held prominent positions that honed his capabilities in complex project delivery. Most recently, he served as the Capital Projects Business Leader for North American mining operations at WSP Global Inc., a leading engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm. His career also includes significant roles as Project Director for Rio Tinto, where he spearheaded multiple large mining and power plant projects across diverse geographies such as the U.S., Mongolia, and Argentina, demonstrating a strong aptitude for managing projects in logistically intricate environments.
Arcese’s track record includes leadership on notable projects such as Teck Resources’ original Quebrada Blanca mine in Chile, BHP’s Escondida Phase 3 and SX-EW Plant in Chile, and Rio Tinto’s Rincon Lithium Project in Argentina, where he was instrumental in establishing the project’s foundational structure. His expertise encompasses crucial areas such as feasibility planning, strategic project execution, comprehensive risk management, and the formation of high-performance technical and project management teams adept at delivering world-class mining assets responsibly and efficiently.
“I am thrilled to join Donlin Gold at such a pivotal moment,” stated Arcese. “Donlin represents one of the most outstanding development-stage gold deposits globally. I feel privileged to contribute to the decades of diligent work that have positioned this project to potentially become the largest single gold mine in the United States. As we advance toward a Bankable Feasibility Study, my primary focus will be on ensuring the technical rigor, collaborative spirit, and disciplined planning essential to position the project for a future construction decision. Alaska offers a remarkable environment for mining operations, and I eagerly anticipate working closely with our partners, stakeholders, and local communities.”
Greg Lang, President and CEO of NOVAGOLD, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the appointment: “We are delighted to welcome Frank as we continue to advance Donlin Gold toward development. His exceptional track record in delivering major mining projects safely, on time, and on budget, combined with his proven expertise in complex engineering projects and challenging environments, will be invaluable as we enhance Donlin Gold’s execution capabilities. With strong momentum behind the project, his appointment marks a significant internal milestone for Donlin Gold as we build out the team to ensure complete preparedness for the crucial next steps.”
About NOVAGOLD
NOVAGOLD is a well-financed precious metals company dedicated to the development of the Donlin Gold project. The project is situated in Alaska, recognized as one of the world’s most favorable mining jurisdictions. NOVAGOLD holds a 60% ownership interest, with Paulson & Co. Inc. holding the remaining 40%. The Donlin Gold project boasts substantial Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources of approximately 39 million ounces of gold. This positions it as one of the largest, highest-grade, and most prospective open-pit gold deposits globally. According to technical reports, upon commencement of production, the project is projected to yield an average of over one million ounces of gold annually for a 27-year mine life, with an accelerated production of 1.4 million ounces per year in the initial decade.
About Paulson & Co. Inc.
Paulson is a private global investment management advisory firm. Through its affiliates, Paulson holds a 100% interest in Donlin Gold Holdings, which in turn owns a 40% stake in Donlin Gold. Paulson, in partnership with NOVAGOLD, shares equal voting and operating control of Donlin Gold through their operating agreement.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and anticipated results. However, actual outcomes may differ materially due to a range of factors, including but not limited to, the ability to obtain necessary permits and approvals, the availability of financing, fluctuations in commodity prices, changes in government regulations, and other risks detailed in NOVAGOLD’s filings with securities regulatory authorities. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, and NOVAGOLD undertakes no obligation to update them, except as required by law.
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