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.

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.

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."