Greg Wilkins, the president and CEO of the world's biggest gold-miner, Barrick Gold, has taken a leave of absence, owing to a “serious medical condition”, the company said on Thursday.

Chairperson Peter Munk would serve as interim CEO until further notice.

“Mr. Wilkins has a serious medical condition that will require his absence as he undergoes further tests, examinations and treatment,” Barrick said in an emailed statement.

The company did not say how long Wilkins' absence was expected to continue.

However, CFO Jamie Solasky would accompany Munk to meetings with European investors next week in Wilkins' stead.

Wilkins was appointed president and CEO of Toronto-based Barrick in February 2003, and led it through a 2006 merger with rival Placer Dome, which boosted the gold-miner into the industry's top spot, held at the time by US-based Newmont Mining.

He was appointed chairperson of the World Gold Council earlier this month.

Barrick stock declined 15 Canadian cents, or 0,32% on Thursday, to C$46,15 a share.

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