Giyani Metals Corp (TSX-V:EMM, OTC:CATPF), the developer of the K.Hill battery-grade manganese project in Botswana, has announced significant changes to its board of directors as part of its transition to becoming a producer of manganese for batteries.
Jonathan Henry, Michael Jones, John Petersen, and Nicola Spooner have retired from the board, effective May 24, 2024. Mark Burnett, Director of Mining Investments at RAB Capital, has been appointed as interim chair, joining the remaining directors: President and CEO Danny Keating, Alex Azpitarte, Thuso Dikgaka, and Stephanie Hart.
The board is actively seeking new directors with expertise in EV battery product marketing, project financing, and capital markets, aiming to complete this process before the next Annual General Meeting (AGM), when Burnett will step down as interim chair.
Burnett brings over 12 years of investing and corporate finance experience in Africa and North America. He is also a Non-Executive Director of Golden Metal Resources and holds an MPhil from the University of Oxford. His background includes service with the British Armed Forces.
The streamlined board will continue to focus on executing the company's strategy, particularly the construction and commissioning of the Demonstration Plant in South Africa.
“I look forward to working with Giyani’s directors and supporting Danny and the management team in their delivery of the Demonstration Plant,” said Burnett. “I also look forward to introducing additional directors to support Giyani’s strategy to become a dominant producer of battery-grade manganese. I believe this company can significantly contribute to the energy transition.”
In a statement, Giyani highlighted that the retiring board members oversaw several key milestones for Giyani, including the receipt of Environmental Authorisation in Botswana, submission of the K.Hill mining license application, development of a hydrometallurgical process for high-purity manganese production, and securing $26 million in funding. These achievements have positioned the company as a leading developer of battery-grade manganese.
CEO Danny Keating expressed gratitude to the departing directors, stating: “Their efforts and commitment have been instrumental in each stage of Giyani’s growth. I look forward to working with the new board as we execute on the Demonstration Plant construction.”