Ian Ball (Photo: Kitco)

Ian Ball (Photo: Kitco)

In a surprising announcement, the young and recently announced President of McEwen Mining (MUX:TSX), Ian Ball, announced his retirement from the company effective July 15, 2014.  Not much clarity on the decision was given in the release.  Could this mean tension between Rob McEwen and his protégé or is this the beginning of a new chapter for this young gun in the mining business.

I would have to side with the latter given Mr. McEwen's statement in the release:

"On behalf of the board of directors, my colleagues at McEwen Mining and our shareholders, we want to thank Ian for the tremendous contributions he has made to McEwen Mining over the years. I have no doubt that he will continue to achieve success in mining and beyond, and we wish him nothing but the absolute best as he embarks on this new chapter in his life," said Mr. McEwen, CEO and chief owner of McEwen Mining.

Mr. Ball and Mr. McEwen's relationship goes back to Goldcorp in 2004.  Mr. Ball was a founding member of the US Gold management.  He is also credited with the discovery of the El Gallo 2 silver deposit in Mexico which is now an integral part of the company's growth plans.

We look forward to what lies ahead for Mr. Ball.

Read: McEwen Mining Announces Resignation of Ian Ball, President