Irena Tsakova has two Master’s degrees in Chemical Engineering and in Environmental Monitoring, Control and Health. With her experience in the Environment Department of Kremikovtsi, Iron & Steel Complex in the Sofia District, Irena gained a deep understanding of the mining and processing industry. Having started in the Chelopech mine in 1999, Irena continued to develop professionally to become Director, HSE and Community Relations, at Chelopech.
In 2013, Irena was promoted to Operations Director responsible for the planning, permitting, and development of the Krumovgrad gold deposit, ensuring compliance and dealing with institutions and public affairs. In that role, she was recognized as one of the 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining in 2015 as part of the biggest international forum of investments in the mining industry, Mines and Money. From 2018 to 2024, Irena held the role of Director, Permitting and Legal, for the two DPM Metals subsidiaries in Bulgaria. In April 2024, she assumed the role of General Manager, Ada Tepe.