SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: Green Critical Minerals (ASX: GCM) has appointed Mr Mark Lynch-Staunton as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Mr Lynch-Staunton is an experienced metals and mining professional, with more than 15 years in project feasibility, development, and operations across Gold, Base Metals, Rare Earth Elements (REE) and Iron Ore.

Mr Lynch-Staunton has led studies on globally significant mining projects, most recently leading the study team on Reko Diq – one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper deposits.

Mr Lynch-Staunton has significant experience in adopting new technology and mining practices to unlock project value and mine more sustainably. His skillset will complement the existing and highly experienced team including graphite Sales and Marketing Advisor Mr Christopher Whiteley and graphite metallurgical expert Mr Oliver Peters.

Mr Lynch-Staunton’s official commencement date with the Company is 1 February 2023. The material terms and conditions of Mr Lynch-Staunton’s Executive Services Agreement are set out in the schedule at the end of this announcement.

Executive Chairman Leon Pretorius commented: “Being able to attract a CEO with the caliber of Mark’s experience and proven technical and commercial acumen speaks volumes about the potential of the McIntosh Graphite project.

The expertise Mark will bring to GCM from his many years working for some of the world’s largest mining companies was a significant attraction for the GCM board and is exactly what is required for the McIntosh Project. Mark has successfully delivered Feasibility and optimisation Studies on numerous global projects, including most recently a multi-million ounce Au-Cu deposit in Tanzania.

The Board welcomes Mark’s expertise in all facets of study management and will support his immediate focus to increase the resource at McIntosh, update the Feasibility Study and project economics to deliver the McIntosh project to its full potential.

Mr Lynch-Staunton commented: “I am highly encouraged to join and lead Green Critical Minerals at this exciting phase. The quality of the assets and the vision to deliver into the critical minerals space are incredibly attractive. The McIntosh graphite deposit is a clear standout and represents one of the best near-term critical mineral development opportunities in Australia. It has all the hallmarks to become a leading Australian graphite producer. I look forward to delivering value to shareholders.

Critical minerals are vital for renewable energy and the EV revolution, and it’s incredibly important we also turn our attention to mining them responsibly and sustainably. To this end, I will be exploring carbon mitigation strategies and if necessary, carbon offsets, with a view to achieving Australia’s first net-zero carbon graphite mine.

The REE potential at North Barkley further rounds out GCM’s vision to deliver critical minerals in tier 1 locations. I look forward to uncovering the true potential for what is shaping up to be a significant REE find.”