Amur Minerals PLC (LON:AMC) has bolstered the board by hiring a Russian expert as it continues to advance its huge Kun-Manie nickel project in the country's Far East.
Ljupco Naumovski (known as 'Lou' or 'Louis') has been appointed to the board as a non-executive director with effect from Monday (January 2).
He has over 30 years' experience working in Russia, most recently as vice president and general director of the Moscow office for major player Kinross Gold, which is the largest Canadian investor in Russia.
At Kinross, he was responsible for government relations and business development following the group's acquisition of the Kupol mine in Chukotka.
He represented the miner on the executive committee of local representatives of Prime Minister Putin's Foreign Investment Advisory Council (FIAC) and oversaw the process that led to two approvals for Kinross's ownership of 100% of strategic gold deposits in Russia.
Amur chief executive Robin Young said: "He is a highly qualified and well respected Russian expert, having started his career in diplomacy and then moving into finance, business development and mining.
"Lou's unparalleled Russia-specific knowledge, contacts, financial experience and business acumen further enhances the strength of Amur's board as we continue with the development of our Kun-Manie nickel project. We are delighted to have him on board."