Lithium Plus Minerals Ltd (ASX:LPM) has appointed experienced mining executive Andrew Haythorpe as chief executive officer as it moves to advance its Lei Lithium Project in the Northern Territory toward development.
Haythorpe brings more than 40 years of experience spanning exploration, project development, capital markets and corporate leadership. He has previously founded and led several ASX-listed resource companies, including Crescent Gold, Michelago Resources and Liberty Resources.
Executive chairman Dr Bin Guo said the appointment comes at a critical stage for the company as it transitions from exploration toward development.
"Andrew is a highly accomplished executive with over 40 years’ experience spanning exploration, mining, finance and capital markets. His proven track record of delivery and value creation makes him ideally suited to lead Lithium Plus as we advance the Lei Lithium Project toward production readiness.
"Andrew’s strong capability in building value in ASX-listed resource companies positions the Company well as we transition into development. His appointment further strengthens our leadership capability at a critical stage for the business.”
Under the leadership changes, Guo will step back from day-to-day operations to focus on strategy and growth initiatives.
Incentives tied to project and share price milestones
Haythorpe’s contract started on April 13, 2026, with total fixed remuneration of A$300,000 per annum, inclusive of superannuation. The agreement includes performance-based incentives linked to share price hurdles and project milestones, including up to 5 million performance rights tied to VWAP targets between $0.20 and $0.50, as well as a decision to mine at Lei.
Lithium Plus’ flagship Bynoe Lithium Project lies about 45 kilometres south of Darwin within the Litchfield Pegmatite Belt and neighbours Core Lithium’s Finniss development. The Lei prospect, where lithium mineralisation was identified in 2017, remains a key focus alongside other drill-ready targets including SW Cai, Cai and Perseverance.
The company also holds additional exploration assets across the Northern Territory, including the Wingate and Arunta projects.