SANTIAGO - CleanTech Lithium PLC (AIM: CTL, Frankfurt:T2N, OTCQX:CTLHF), a lithium exploration and development company, has announced the appointment of Tony Esplin as its Chief Executive Officer Designate, with immediate effect. Esplin, an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in international mining, will transition to a full-time role and join the board upon the company's listing on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), expected in early Q1 2025.
The company is also on track to submit the Special Lithium Operating Contract (CEOL) for its Laguna Verde project before the end of the year. Additionally, CleanTech Lithium is preparing to produce significant quantities of battery-grade lithium carbonate for potential strategic partners to start product qualification.
Esplin's appointment follows a comprehensive search conducted by executive search firm Heidrich & Struggles. His experience includes leadership roles in Latin America, Australasia, and Indonesia, with a focus on gold and base metal projects. Esplin's proficiency in Spanish and his experience with government and community relations in Latin America are expected to be valuable as the company advances its Laguna Verde project toward commercial production of battery-grade lithium by the end of 2027.
Steve Kesler, Executive Chairman and Interim CEO, expressed confidence in Esplin's ability to lead the company through its next phase, emphasizing his experience in managing large-scale projects and engaging with local communities.
Esplin, commenting on his new role, highlighted the lithium market's challenges and the company's positioning to become a significant player in Chile's lithium sector. He praised CleanTech Lithium's use of Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) and its commitment to sustainable practices.
The planned ASX listing has been strategically scheduled for early next year to align with the company's progress in producing lithium carbonate and completing the Laguna Verde project's Prefeasibility Study (PFS). Esplin will play a key role in the listing process and in increasing the company's profile among investors, analysts, and media.
This corporate update is based on a press release statement and provides a factual account of CleanTech Lithium's latest developments and strategic decisions regarding its leadership and project milestones.
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