BlackEarth Minerals NL (ASX:BEM) has appointed leading Australian businesswoman and business advisor Heather Zampatti to its board.
The new joiner will assist the graphite developer in an advisory capacity, bringing more than three decades of capital market, stockbroking and investment experience to the table.
This appointment comes as BlackEarth ramps up work on its flagship Maniry Graphite Project in southern Madagascar, where it’s developing some of the world’s highest-grade, large and jumbo flake graphite products.
The versatile material is attracting high demand — some estimates put its value at more than $30 billion by 2027 — and could play a key role in the burgeoning battery, solar panel and steelmaking industries.
BEM aims to be the first ASX-listed expandable graphite producer after inking a joint venture to develop a graphite plant in India last week.
Track record of senior leadership
Speaking to Zampatti’s appointment, BlackEarth chairman George Bauk said: "The board is delighted to have someone of Heather’s experience and wealth of business knowledge join our board.
“Not only does she bring to the board extensive experience in developing strategies to grow and expand enterprises, Heather has a track record of providing senior leadership skills in dealing with a range of industries and government bodies.
“Her extensive experience with social causes and governance functions will add enormous value to our board as we continue to expand our operations and networks globally.”
Echoing Bauk's comments, Zampatti said she was delighted to join the BlackEarth team.
“Having worked in capital markets, stockbroking and the investment sector for over 35 years, I am keen to contribute to the ongoing success of the company.
“BlackEarth is at an exciting stage in its development towards becoming a leading producer of concentrate from its Maniry Project, expandable graphite and other downstream graphite products, which is finding rising demand in areas including electric vehicles and clean energy delivery.
“The company’s highly experienced and respected team have the skills and knowledge to deliver a world-class graphite company.
“I am excited to assist BlackEarth in its development and market recognition and deliver shareholder value.”