8-KLeadership Changes

ISHARES GOLD TRUST 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Nov 9, 2011)

Filed November 9, 2011For Securities:IAU

Summary

This 8-K filing from iShares Gold Trust (IAU) primarily announces a key leadership change within its sponsor, BlackRock Asset Management International Inc. Effective December 15, 2011, Jack Gee has been appointed as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Director of the Sponsor. Mr. Gee brings extensive financial and operational experience from his previous roles at BlackRock and other investment firms. This appointment is significant as it marks a transition in the leadership responsible for the operational and financial oversight of the iShares Gold Trust. Investors should note that Geoffrey D. Flynn is resigning from these same positions, also effective December 15, 2011. While the filing doesn't detail the reasons for the change, such transitions can sometimes signal shifts in strategy or operational focus.

Key Highlights

  • 1Appointment of Jack Gee as CFO, COO, and Director of iShares Gold Trust Sponsor, effective December 15, 2011.
  • 2Jack Gee's extensive background includes significant financial and operational roles at BlackRock and other investment management firms.
  • 3Resignation of Geoffrey D. Flynn from the positions of CFO, COO, and Director of the Sponsor, also effective December 15, 2011.
  • 4The filing indicates a change in key executive leadership for the entity managing the iShares Gold Trust.
  • 5Mr. Gee's prior roles include CFO of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC and various positions at BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A.
  • 6The iShares Gold Trust is sponsored by BlackRock Asset Management International Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jack Gee has been appointed as the new Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and Director of BlackRock Asset Management International Inc., the sponsor of the iShares Gold Trust, effective December 15, 2011.

Jack Gee is 55 years old and has a background in financial and operational leadership. He previously served as CFO of iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC and held various senior roles at BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A., including Director of US Fund Administration and Managing Director. He also has prior experience as CFO for Parnassus Investments and Cazenave Partners, among others.

Geoffrey D. Flynn is resigning from his positions as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and Director of the Sponsor, also effective December 15, 2011.

The appointments and resignations for these key roles are effective on December 15, 2011.