Harry Barr | Chairman, CEO & Director of New Age Metals | Chariman & CEO of MetalQuest Mining
Harry Barr, Chairman and CEO of New Age Metals, and CEO of MetalQuest Mining, has been a pivotal figure in the mining industry for over 40 years. His journey began in the jungles of Colombia at the young age of 25, where he was introduced to the world of mining while working at his uncle’s gold mine. This early experience sparked his passion for the industry, a field he refers to as “catching the gold bug.” Since those early days, Barr has founded and led numerous mineral exploration ventures, making a substantial impact on the mining sector. Today, his two companies, New Age Metals and MetalQuest Mining, are at the forefront of sustainable mineral exploration, particularly in green metals crucial to a low-carbon future. At EliteX, we are proud to have Harry Barr as part of the edition: Trailblazing Leaders in Mining, 2024.
Reflecting on his start, Barr credits his early fascination with the mining industry to his experiences in Colombia. His curiosity quickly turned into a lifelong pursuit, marked by a drive to build companies and take on challenges that come with mineral exploration. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the founding of companies like Freegold Ventures and Canalaska, setting a strong foundation for a prolific career. Today, as Chairman and CEO of New Age Metals, Barr leads a green metals exploration company with major interests in two critical projects: the River Valley Palladium Project in Sudbury, Ontario, and several lithium exploration properties in Manitoba. The River Valley Palladium Project is among North America’s largest palladium deposits and is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for metals essential to clean energy and sustainable technology. Under Barr’s leadership, New Age Metals has formed strategic partnerships, including one with Mineral Resources Ltd., one of the world’s top lithium producers. His other company, MetalQuest Mining, oversees the Lac Otelnuk Iron Ore Project in Quebec, one of the largest undeveloped iron ore deposits globally. Together, these ventures are key contributors to the global green metals sector, with a focus on sustainable development.
“Everything in this world is either grown or mined. The need for mining will continue to grow, and our plan is to explore, discover, and develop as many critical mineral projects as we can.”
For Barr, the mining industry is as challenging as it is rewarding. The constant need to adapt and innovate, combined with the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, drives his passion for leadership. Barr finds joy in the industry’s unique demands, from the physical and intellectual challenges to the camaraderie among those who work in the field. “The mining industry has offered me the opportunity to travel the world, meet fascinating people, and experience different cultures,” he shares. “These elements keep me motivated and inspire me to continue pushing boundaries in the industry.” One of the most significant challenges in mining is navigating the cyclical nature of the industry. Barr describes the frequent downturns as periods that can last years, requiring resilience and a willingness to endure hardships. Yet, he views these challenges as opportunities to strengthen his resolve and focus on long-term goals.
“Persistence is key,” he notes. “There have been many challenging times, but pushing through these downturns has always paid off in the end. Success in mining isn’t immediate; it’s a long game.” This mindset has allowed Barr to keep his focus, drive his projects forward, and build companies that can withstand the industry’s ups and downs. The mining sector is constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations, and environmental concerns shaping its future. To stay ahead, Barr follows industry trends closely. He emphasizes the importance of daily monitoring, both for his own knowledge and to inform strategic decisions that keep his companies at the forefront of the industry. “Staying updated on the latest industry developments allows us to be proactive rather than reactive,” he explains. “This is essential for adapting to technological advances and evolving environmental standards.” Barr’s commitment to staying informed has been a crucial element in guiding his companies toward sustainable and innovative practices.
While mining is traditionally slow to adopt new technologies, Barr recognizes the critical role of innovation in shaping the future of the industry. He believes that technology can drive efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and open up new opportunities for exploration. “Technological advancements are vital to the future of mining,” Barr states. “Adapting to these changes allows us to work smarter and more sustainably, meeting the growing global demand for critical minerals.” This emphasis on technology aligns with Barr’s broader commitment to sustainable practices and responsible resource extraction.
“Mining is a series of tremendous highs and some gut-awful lows. The key to getting through it is finding a way to have a balanced life.”
One of Barr’s proudest achievements is the discovery of platinum group metals (PGMs) at New Age Metals. The company’s River Valley Palladium Project is a significant PGM discovery, positioning New Age Metals as a leader in the North American palladium market. Additionally, MetalQuest Mining’s acquisition of the Lac Otelnuk Iron Ore Project, one of the largest undeveloped iron ore deposits, represents a major step toward securing resources vital to the green economy. “We’ve achieved a lot from our initial drill holes to acquiring major projects,” he reflects. “These milestones are a testament to the hard work and expertise of our team.”
Sustainability is a core principle in Barr’s approach to mining. New Age Metals collaborates with environmental consulting firms like Story Environmental to ensure that each project prioritizes environmental protection. Additionally, the company maintains transparency through annual ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reports, demonstrating a commitment to accountability in all its operations. “We work with expert environmental groups to make sure our projects align with the highest standards of environmental responsibility,” Barr explains. “From planning to execution, sustainability is a priority.” His partnerships with First Nations communities further underscore this commitment. New Age Metals has established agreements with the Nipissing, Temagami, and Sagkeeng First Nations, offering share options and ensuring these communities benefit directly from project developments.
In the mining industry, managing a diverse team is essential to the success of complex projects. Barr’s strategy involves finding skilled professionals who bring expertise in geology, engineering, and environmental science. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and values the insights of experienced professionals from different parts of the world. “Working with knowledgeable individuals in each region allows us to meet our project goals efficiently,” he says. “A strong team is the backbone of any successful venture.” His commitment to building and leading diverse teams has been instrumental in driving his projects forward.
When asked about the qualities essential for a leader in mining, Barr highlights persistence, adaptability, and the ability to work with skilled professionals. He also notes that success often requires a bit of luck. “The mining industry is full of highs and lows,” he observes. “The key is to stay persistent and maintain a balanced approach.” For newcomers to the mining industry, Barr offers practical advice: balance is crucial. The mining sector has both rewarding highs and challenging lows, and maintaining a balanced perspective is essential for long-term success. He also points out the shortage of young professionals in the field, making it an opportune time to enter.
“There’s a lot of opportunity in mining right now,” he shares. “If you have the patience and resilience, it’s a great career path.”
Looking ahead, Barr predicts that the industry will face increasing complexity due to environmental and regulatory challenges. However, he believes these changes will ultimately lead to more responsible practices and innovation. He remains optimistic about the future and is committed to exploring and developing critical mineral projects. “Mining will only grow in importance,” he asserts. “Our role is to meet the demand for critical minerals while adhering to sustainable practices.” New Age Metals takes a proactive approach to community engagement, working with First Nations communities and providing economic opportunities through partnerships. As Barr explains, these relationships are a fundamental part of his company’s vision.
“Involving local communities is key to our mission,” he says. “We aim to create lasting positive impacts.”
With a vision centered on responsible exploration and development, Barr is committed to leaving a positive legacy in the mining industry. His leadership, built on decades of experience and a deep commitment to sustainability, positions New Age Metals and MetalQuest Mining as leaders in the field, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future in mining.