Lake Resources NL (ASX:LKE, OTCQB:LLKKF) has made several changes to the board, appointing Dr Cheemin Bo-Linn, Howard Atkins and John Freeman in various capacities as the company moves toward a final investment decision (FID) for the Kachi Lithium Brine Project in Argentina.
Freeman will serve as chief legal officer and general counsel, having extensive experience in building and developing legal and compliance functions in complex international business organisations.
He has 30 years of experience in leading global companies, having served in multiple leadership and compliance roles, including as Prosecuting Attorney for the US Office of Special Counsel and Special Assistant US Attorney for the District of Columbia.
Lake Resources executive chairman Stuart Crow said enhancing the company’s governance, compliance and controls was mission-critical as it transitioned from exploration stage to execution.
“Mr Freeman’s world-class legal and compliance experience will be invaluable as Lake expands its business and continues its transformation,” Crow said.
Lake Resources CEO David Dickson adds: “Mr Freeman brings a wealth of global experience spanning our sector and beyond.
“He joins us at a critical time and will play a key role working with me, our board and the rest of our team as we continue to grow and strengthen the company.”
Financial management, ESG expertise
LKE has also welcomed Howard Atkins and Dr Cheemin Bo-Linn to the board, who bring with them a wealth of expertise in financial management, capital markets, governance and public company experience, and hands-on experience in ESG and the renewable supply chain, respectively.
Dr Bo-Linn has been recognised internationally for her achievements, including by The Financial Times in its 2021 'Top 100' global board director diversity list and the National Association of Corporate Directors in its 2019 'Top 50 Board of Directors' list.
“Dr Bo-Linn brings highly relevant and extensive experience, particularly in sustainability, governance and the renewables supply chain,” said Dickson.
“Her industry expertise along with her environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) strategies will position us for growth and the creation of shareholder value, as we transition to a new development stage.”
Atkins has more than 30 years of financial leadership experience, including 20 years serving as a CFO for organisations including Wells Fargo, New York Life Insurance Company and Midlantic Bank Corporation.
“Mr Atkin’s experience in governance, financial control and capital markets, and his connections in energy markets will be vital as we move toward FID on Kachi,” Crow said.