Giyani Metals Corp (TSX-V:EMM, OTC:CATPF), developer of the K.Hill battery-grade manganese project in Botswana, has announced the appointment of Charles FitzRoy as its new president and CEO.
FitzRoy replaces outgoing CEO Danny Keating, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities, according to a statement from Giyani.
FitzRoy joined Giyani in October 2023 as head of corporate development and strategy, where he was responsible for managing relationships with original equipment manufacturers and off-takers.
He previously served as CEO of Bradda Head Lithium, where he successfully led the company through public listings on AIM, OTCQB, and the TSX-V.
Mark Burnett, interim non-executive chairman of the board, expressed confidence in FitzRoy's leadership.
“We are very excited to appoint Charles as CEO at an important time for the company. Since he joined the company last year, the Board has been impressed with his strategic decision-making and vision,” said Burnett.
FitzRoy's appointment comes as Giyani prepares to deliver its Demonstration Plant in the fourth quarter of 2024 and works on the definitive feasibility study (DFS), which is expected to support project financing in 2025.
FitzRoy emphasized his focus on moving forward with off-take agreements and advancing the K.Hill project to establish Giyani as a key producer of battery-grade manganese in Africa.
"This is a very exciting time for Giyani as we look to finalize the delivery of the Demonstration Plant in Q4 and begin narrowing our focus towards commencing negotiating potential off-take agreements with key partners this year,” FitzRoy told shareholders.
“There is much work to be done but we believe we have the right team to continue to advance the company and K.Hill towards being a dominant producer of battery grade manganese in Africa.”