Executive Team

First Bauxite CEO Ralf Schoenfelder has a strong track record of success and extensive experience in international industrial materials, mining, and minerals as well as over 25 years of managing and scaling companies and business units of various sizes across the globe. Ralf brings a wealth of leadership and strategic experience to First Bauxite. His industry knowledge and proven ability to drive results will be instrumental in steering the business at this pivotal point in its history. Throughout his career Ralf has been actively involved in various Mergers and Acquisitions and has held executive positions in Europe, South America, Asia, South Africa, and Australia.

James des Cognets joined First Bauxite in November 2023 and focuses on driving efficiency and financial performance across its businesses. He brings significant experience in private equity management and across the natural resources sector. James comes to FBX from Resource Capital Funds where he was responsible for RCF’s global royalty portfolio, as well as investments in energy transition metals and industrial minerals. He holds a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering and French from Vanderbilt University and an MBA (high honors) from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. James has also received his ICD.D accreditation from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto.

Elliott joined First Bauxite in January 2020, bringing over 25 years of experience in technical, commercial, and leadership roles across multiple industries. As head of Government Relations, Communications, and Business Sustainability, he ensures regulatory compliance while fostering strong stakeholder relationships. Elliott holds an Executive MBA from Henley Business School and a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bradford, UK.

Nathan Wollenburg joined First Bauxite in March 2023 and is responsible for driving FBX’s commercial and sales strategy. He comes to FBX with extensive experience in sales, marketing, business development, and a demonstrated ability to drive product and market growth through technical and commercial development. Nate comes to First Bauxite from Vibrantz Technologies (formerly Prince International Corporation) where he was most recently the Sales Director overseeing Metallurgical, Energy, and Glass markets.

Senior level Industrial Minerals professional with multi-mineral, global experience with expertise spanning from mine to customer applications. Eric has both multi-functional, i.e. operations, process engineering, technical sales and business development, and multi-mineral expertise. Erics application knowledge covers industrial fillers, glass, ceramics, engineered stone and coatings.

Rick joined First Bauxite in December 2024 and brings over twenty years of experience in the mining and minerals sector. He has managed surface and underground operations from technical studies, through construction, and into operations for both private and publicly traded companies. He is responsible for all mining and processing activities, including health and safety, environmental compliance, and site management. Prior to joining the company, Rick held multiple engineering and operations management positions including General Manager for Morton Salt, Inc., Chief Operating Officer at Paringa Resources LTD, and Mine Superintendent for Arch Resources from which he brings extensive mining experience and a strong track record of optimizing productivity and profitability. Rick holds an Executive MBA from the University of Pittsburgh and a Bachelor of Science in Mining and Minerals Engineering from Virginia Tech, and he is a Registered Professional Engineer in several jurisdictions.

Iana Seales joined First Bauxite as the Human Resources Manager in 2018. With a background in conflict analysis, negotiation, and industrial relations, Iana brought a fresh perspective to HR, focusing on fostering a collaborative and empowering environment. Leveraging her media and communications background, she has also strengthened internal communication and built trust across teams, creating a culture of openness and engagement. Iana’s strategic approach has positioned HR as a pivotal function within the organization, emphasizing employee development. With advanced degrees in International Conflict Analysis and Professional Human Resources from U.K. institutions, Iana combines a global perspective with deep local knowledge. Her work has driven improvements in workforce engagement and organizational resilience.

Michael oversees the Procurement and Local Logistics Departments, along with the Administration of communication and procedures between Head Office and the various Project Sites. Michael has over 15 years’ experience in the mining and mineral exploration sectors and has represented the extractive sector in the local chambers of commerce. Michael was the former Operations Manager and Interim General Manager at the Troy Resources Ltd. Karouni Project before joining the First Bauxite team in Guyana in September 2023.

Alexander (AJ) Catlaw joined First Bauxite in August 2023 in the role of Director of Logistics. He comes to FBX as a senior-level chartering and logistics professional with over 15 years of experience across leading organizations such as Enviva, Holcim Trading, and Sims Metal Management. His expertise in managing multimillion-ton dry bulk cargo portfolios, delivering cost-effective freight solutions for global markets in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Skilled in negotiating spot and long-term charters, developing commercial shipping strategies, and optimizing marine supply chains to enhance profitability.

With over 15 years of dedicated service, Neville has become a cornerstone of the organization, renowned for his exceptional expertise in bauxite exploration and resource management. His career spans nearly three decades across multiple facets of geology, resource evaluation and mineral exploration, making him an invaluable leader within the company. Neville holds both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Geology and Exploration of Mineral Deposits, with specializations in bauxite and iron ore, from the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia. Before joining First Bauxite, Neville gained significant experience and built a solid foundation in environmental management and mineral resources exploration through various roles within the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and industry collaborations with BHPB World Exploration Inc. His early career experience in the public sector provided him with significant insights into the regulatory and environmental aspects of the mining industry. Throughout his career at FBX Inc., Neville has been instrumental in driving technical excellence, optimizing production processes, and ensuring sustainable resource management. This extensive academic background, paired with a remarkable professional track record, has been instrumental to the success of noteworthy projects like the Bonasika Bauxite Project. Neville’s leadership, technical and institutional knowledge, and unwavering dedication have earned him an exceptional reputation within the company.

Stefan Keane is a Process Engineer at First Bauxite, with over 10 years of experience in alumina production. Stefan has progressed through various roles in the Alumina industry from Lab Technician to Shift Process Controller, and eventually to Process Engineer and Process Engineering Team Leader. Throughout his career, Stefan has provided technical engineering support to production and has improved productivity while significantly improving efficiency. Stefan holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, with a minor in Process, from the University of Technology, Jamaica. His experience in problem-solving, data analysis, and leadership, continuously driving results and operational improvements within the industry. Stefan’s professional philosophy is rooted in his passion for identifying the root causes of issues and providing long-term solutions. He is also a strong advocate for knowledge sharing and mentoring, believing that empowering others is key to achieving collective success.

Safraz is a seasoned professional with 15 years of dedicated service to First Bauxite Inc., currently holding the dual roles of General Services and Security Superintendent and Chief Port Facility Security Officer. His career at First Bauxite began in procurement, he then took on the responsibilities of camp administration, managing the complex logistical and residential needs of the company's workforce. Today, in his current position, Safraz is responsible for the overall security and operational efficiency of the company's facilities, with a particular focus on the port. His extensive experience and commitment to First Bauxite's mission make him an integral part of the leadership team."