Core Lithium Ltd (ASX:CXO) has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of resources sector veteran Gareth Manderson as the first CEO of the company.
Manderson has 28 years of experience in the mining and minerals sector and joins the company after having served in various leadership and technical roles at mining giant Rio Tinto for more than 22 years.
He will commence his new role on August 8, 2022, and outgoing managing director Stephen Biggins will continue to ensure a smooth transition until the changeover of leadership is complete.
“Many synergies”
Core chairman Greg English said: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Gareth as Chief Executive of Core.
“His experience in developing teams, delivering projects and safely operating mining and processing operations make Gareth the perfect fit for Core’s first CEO, as our Finniss Lithium Project moves from construction to operation later this year.
"There are many synergies between Gareth’s previous senior roles in managing complex mine, mineral processing, port, township and logistics operations during his tenure at Rio Tinto and the Finniss Project which is 25 kilometres from the Darwin CBD and port.
“Gareth’s previous Northern Territory experience and managing the effects of the annual wet season will also be essential as we plan to be operating in this environment for years to come.”
Notable experience
Manderson's most recent role was at Rio Tinto, where he was the general manager of Sustaining Capital, instrumental in developing a team and structure capable of delivering Rio Tinto Iron Ore’s sustaining capital, improvement capital and technology deployment (HME fleet and automation technology) projects across their Pilbara operations in regional Western Australia.
Manderson also holds previous Northern Territory mining experience, having served as manager of mine and plant for Energy Resources Australia and spent regular extended periods acting in the site general manager role.
Manderson said: “I have been impressed by what the Core team have achieved to date and I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead Core at this vital time in the company’s growth.
“With construction of Stage 1 of the Finniss Lithium Project nearing completion and the pending export of lithium, I look forward to leading Core and working with my colleagues across the business to ensure that we maintain strong safety, operational and financial performance.”