Core Lithium Ltd (ASX:CXO) will move its headquarters to the heart of Australia’s lithium industry in Perth by the middle of this year in a strategic move to mark the company’s transition to lithium producer.
The move from Adelaide to the capital of Australia’s biggest mining state will provide better access to the country’s mining talent as well as being a strategic location for its Finniss Lithium Operation in Darwin, Northern Territory.
Core has offered all Adelaide-based employees the option to relocate to Perth.
“Perth has become Australia’s lithium hub and hosts one of the nation’s largest mining talent pools," Core’s chief executive officer Gareth Manderson said.
"Relocating the corporate head office to Perth makes sense for Core and forms part of our broader strategy to build a sustainable, value-driven lithium business.”
Building capability
In conjunction with the move, the company has strengthened its executive leadership team with two key appointments.
Andrew Forman will take up the position of interim chief financial officer (CFO), while Melissa Winks has been appointed as executive general manager for Sustainability.
A financial industry veteran with extensive experience in the mining sector, Forman recently completed a 35-year career with PwC, including more than 20 years as a partner.
He is working alongside current CFO Simon Iacopetta to complete a smooth handover prior to his appointment in February.
On the other hand, Winks’ newly-created position is Core’s promise to sustainable practices in all aspects of its operations.
Winks, who fills a newly-created position within Core, will ensure the company meets all of its sustainable commitments including ESG, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Communities, Indigenous Engagement and Approvals.
She brings a wealth of experience from working in Canada and Australia, including more than five years in the Northern Territory, and has established respectful and productive relationships with the local government and key stakeholders.
Developing capacity
“I am delighted to welcome Melissa Winks and Andrew Forman to the Core team. Aligned with our relocation to Perth is the continued development of the capacity and capability within our organisation,” Manderson said.
“Melissa will take the lead of our Sustainability and ESG strategy in this newly created executive position. This is a key piece of work and a critical role for the business.
"Andrew brings a great set of skills and experience to the team as interim CFO and will ensure a seamless handover of this critical finance function.”
Core has appointed Korn Ferry to assist with the recruitment of a permanent Perth-based CFO, which the company expects to complete by the middle of this year.