Benchmark Metals Inc. (TSX-V:BNCH, OTCQX:BNCHF) has boosted its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) credentials with the addition of Jody Shimkus as an independent member of its board of directors.
The company said the new appointment provides expertise in ESG as Benchmark advances permitting towards a production decision. Benchmark's flagship Lawyers Gold-Silver Project is located within a road-accessible region of the prolific Golden Horseshoe area of north-central British Columbia, Canada.
In a statement, John Williamson, the company's chairman and CEO, commented: "We are very pleased to welcome Jody to Benchmark's Board. As a seasoned veteran with a proven track record in the resources sector, she possesses significant knowledge of ESG practices and strategy."
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"In addition, Jody has expertise with provincial and federal government regulators to advance and permit resource projects. Her skillset and professional acumen will complement the existing Board structures and help strengthen Benchmark's performance and long-term value for all shareholders and key stakeholders," Williamson added.
Shimkus is president, JMS Consulting Inc, based in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. She is an experienced leader in environmental policy and regulatory affairs with over 30 years of private and public sector experience.
Shimkus has significant knowledge managing politically sensitive, complex projects that involved high levels of engagement with Indigenous groups, and stakeholders.
She will chair and form a new independent Board Sustainability Committee geared towards focusing all Benchmark efforts towards Sustainability ESG. The Sustainability Committee will assist the board with respect to ESG governance matters relating to the company.
Contact the author at jon.hopkins@proactiveinvestors.com