Jill Nelson
Founding Partner
Jill Nelson
Jill Nelson boasts over 40 years of experience in varied roles within the mining industry. She began her career as a mining engineer with Shell Mining before transitioning to the waste industry with BFI, where she managed remediation projects, environmental health and safety, and hazardous waste landfills at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal. She later returned to BFI as a landfill sales manager. In 2008, Jill moved to Downing Teal in Denver, specializing in mining industry recruitment. Desiring to blaze her own trail, she co-founded Brooks & Nelson with Lois Brooks in 2016. Her goal has been to provide exceptional, client-tailored recruiting services. Passionate about matching top-end talent with the right opportunities, Jill is a staunch supporter of the mining industry and serves on the boards of trade associations, colleges, and the governor-appointed Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board.
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Maurene Martin
Controller
Maurene Martin
Maurene Martin is a part of the Brooks & Nelson team serving as the Controller, she also assists in researching and selecting potential candidates. Prior to joining the team, she spent her career in the non-profit religious sector.
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Jerry Gauntt
Business Development Manager
Jerry Gauntt
Jerry Gauntt is an experienced mining professional trained as a mineral economist at Penn State. He has worked with companies like Rio Tinto (Luzenac), ASARCO, Imerys, and Rocky Mountain Energy, specializing in selling various metals and industrial minerals. At Brooks & Nelson, Jerry leads mining business development activities and assists clients with due diligence reviews involving mineral investments. His comprehensive industry knowledge adds immense value to the team.
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Joline Lenz
Senior Talent Advisor
Joline Lenz
Joline Lenz brings over two decades of leadership and recruitment expertise to Brooks & Nelson. Formerly the CEO of HS International, a successful Denver-based mining recruitment firm, she has placed technical, corporate, and leadership talent globally. Most recently, Joline worked as a senior sourcer for Northrop Grumman, a Fortune 500 company. Co-author of “Inspiration at Work,” she excels as a creative problem solver, talent sleuth, and team builder, helping candidates and clients thrive.
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Jan de Ville
Senior Recruiter
Jan de Ville
Jan de Ville began her recruiting career in 2012 with HS International, specializing in the global mining industry. She focuses primarily on mid-level to executive roles. Prior to recruiting, Jan spent over 13 years with the Denver Gold Group, promoting international precious metals conferences. Her expertise in corporate communications and strong interpersonal skills make her an invaluable asset to Brooks & Nelson, where she builds trusted relationships with industry professionals.
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Ashley Newman
Marketing and Recruitment Specialist
Ashley Newman
Ashley Newman majored in business administration and marketing at New Mexico State University. She developed and executed marketing strategies for her family-owned business, contributing to its growth and success. Now, Ashley serves as a Marketing and Recruitment Specialist at Brooks & Nelson, where she develops the brand in a positive, authentic way that connects and attracts current and future clients. Her expertise in marketing is vital to Brooks & Nelson’s company's outreach efforts.
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Sarah Stanley
Office Manager
Sarah Stanley
Sarah Stanley is an experienced writer and communications strategist with a diverse background in agency, corporate, academic, government, and non-profit sectors. Known for her writing, editing, and leadership skills, Sarah transitioned from advertising and communications in the automotive sector to mining recruitment. At Brooks & Nelson, she serves as Office Manager, maintaining editorial standards and brand guidelines while providing comprehensive administrative support and managing special projects.
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Sarah Lightner
Senior Recruiter
Sarah Lightner
Sarah Lightner has specialized in recruiting, staffing, and human resources within the mining and geosciences sector since 2011. Actively participating in industry networking, advocacy events, and lobbying efforts, she also chaired the Northern Nevada SME chapter. Sarah’s commitment to enhancing recruitment and retention strategies stems from her passion for helping individuals find fulfilling careers. Her expertise and dedication are invaluable to Brooks & Nelson.
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