Australian Strategic Materials Ltd has thanked outgoing managing director & chief executive officer David Woodall for his contribution and particularly for laying the foundations for the company to take advantage of the global demand for critical metals.
Woodall has advised the board of his intention to step down from both roles and will be leaving the company immediately.
During his tenure, ASM has delivered a strong optimisation study for the Dubbo Project, acquired innovative metallisation technology, constructed its first metals plant in South Korea, and signed an engineering, procurement and construction definition contract with Hyundai Engineering.
New CEO
In announcing the resignation, chairman Ian Gandel also stated that the company’s chief operating officer Rowena Smith had accepted the appointment of chief executive officer.
Smith is a highly experienced global mining executive and has been ASM’s COO since July 2021.
In her first year with ASM, she led the Dubbo Project team, which included work for the optimisation study released in December 2021. She also led the construction and commissioning of the Korean Metals Plant.
“A highly capable leader”
Gandel said: “We are delighted that Rowena is leading the company through the next phase of its development.
"Rowena has demonstrated that she is a highly capable leader, underpinned by her extensive experience and track record in the mining sector.
“With this appointment, the board has confidence there will be a seamless leadership transition, enabling ASM to continue to focus on delivering its mine-to-metals strategy.”
Mining experience
The new CEO has almost 30 years of global mining experience in various senior roles including strategy, commercial, operations and ESG.
Prior to joining ASM, she was South32’s chief sustainability officer and vice president-supply, leading teams across Australia, South Africa, Mozambique, Colombia and the United States.
She has also held roles with Rio Tinto and BHP for Nickel West, including as head of Resource Planning & Development and Projects, manager Strategy and Acquisitions, and general manager Kwinana Nickel Refinery.
Smith’s skills and experience in global operations and major projects, along with her achievements at ASM will enable her to lead ASM through its next phase.
David Woodall thanked
Gandel also paid tribute to Woodall, saying: “The board thanks David, who led the company through its early stages following the demerger from Alkane, through to the delivery of a successful optimisation study and the construction of our Korean Metals Plant. We wish him all the success in the future.”