Globe Metals & Mining Ltd (ASX:GBE) has thanked chief executive officer Grant Hudson for “his significant contributions” to the company after he announced his intention to retire as CEO with effect from May 31, 2024.
Following a rigorous selection process by the company's Nomination and Remuneration Committee, GBE has decided to promote Paul Smith to chief executive officer designate.
Smith will officially assume the role of chief executive officer on June 1, 2024, and in the meantime will work closely with Grant Hudson to ensure an orderly handover.
“Left an indelible mark”
Globe chairperson Alice Wong said: "On behalf of the board, I would like to express our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to Grant for his significant contributions to Globe over the last two and a half years.
"His unwavering passion, dedication and remarkable achievements have left an indelible mark on our company.
"As Grant embarks on a well-deserved retirement, we extend our warmest wishes for a fulfilling and rewarding new chapter in his life."
About CEO designate
Paul Smith joined Globe in December 2023 as chief operating officer and has made an immediate
impact spearheading the company’s recent optimisation study which confirms robust financial and technical outcomes at the Kanyika Niobium Project.
He has more than 30 years of experience as a senior mining industry executive across exploration, feasibility, project development and operations management on a global platform.
Smith has extensive experience with start-up and turnaround strategies, leveraging significant expertise in stockbroking, corporate finance and project funding in delivering key business objectives.
“The ideal leader”
"Throughout our rigorous selection process, it became evident that Paul’s extensive global experience as a senior mining industry executive coupled with his profound understanding of our company’s products, markets, and growth potential, uniquely position him as the ideal leader to succeed Grant,” Wong said.
"We are confident that Paul will work together with our experienced executive team, ensuring a seamless transition and driving Globe forward to new heights."
“Statement of intent”
Retiring CEO Grant Hudson said: “The appointment of Paul Smith as the next CEO of Globe is another significant milestone in the evolution of Globe from junior explorer to operating mining company.
“Coupled with the recent publication of the highly positive optimisation study and the strategic decision to relocate the refinery to Malawi, this appointment is a serious statement of intent.
“As a senior figure in African mining circles with substantial mining expertise and broad experience in capital markets, I believe Paul is the right person to take Globe forward in its continued development as a world-class supplier of critical metals.”