Australian Strategic Materials Ltd (ASX:ASM) has promoted existing CEO Rowena Smith to the role of managing director, a move the company’s chair Ian Gandel called a “natural progression” following her appointment in July last year.
“We are delighted to welcome Rowena as managing director to the ASM board,” he said.
“Since Rowena became CEO last year, she has led the company through a successful capital raising, the commencement of the EPC definition work for the Dubbo Project and the first sale and delivery of product from the Korean Metals Plant.
“These activities have placed ASM in a strong position for 2023, as we progress our Dubbo Project and ramp-up of the Korean Metals Plant.
“Rowena’s appointment to the ASM board supports ASM’s delivery of its strategic ambitions and growth.
“The board looks forward to continuing to work with Rowena as we build our global rare earths and critical minerals business.”
Veteran global mining executive
Smith is a highly experienced mining executive with more than 30 years of experience in various roles including strategy, commercial, operations and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG).
Before joining ASM, Smith was South32’s chief sustainability officer and vice president supply, leading teams across Australia, South Africa, Mozambique, Colombia and the United States.
She has also held roles with Rio Tinto and BHP for Nickel West, including as head of resource planning & development and projects, manager strategy and acquisitions, and general manager Kwinana Nickel Refinery.