Celsius Resources (ASX:CLA) has appointed George Bujtor as non-executive chair, bringing over 50 years of experience in the global resources sector to the company.
Bujtor spent over 25 years with Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO) in senior technical, development, and commercial roles across Australia before relocating to the Philippines in 2005.
He previously served as Managing Director at Toledo Mining, overseeing the development of the Berong Nickel Laterite Project; and led Carmen Copper through a project ramp-up while securing US$300 million ($433 million) in financing.
The appointment comes as Celsius works to resolve an arbitration dispute with Makilala Mining (MMCI) regarding Celsius’ flagship Maalinao-Caigutan-Biyog (MCB) Copper-Gold Project in the Philippines.
Bujtor says he has long recognised the quality of MCB Project and its wider portfolio in the Philippines, adding that this is a ‘pivotal’ time for the company.
“I look forward to working closely with the board and management to resolve the current MMCI arbitration and rapidly advance the MCB Project toward development,” Bujtor says.
Managing Director Bardin Davis adds that Bujtor’s ‘formidable’ reputation, expertise, and proven track record in the Philippines makes him the ideal fit to lead the board.
The company notes that Peter Hume has stepped down as interim non-executive chair but remains on the board.
Celsius Resources is an explorer focused on copper and gold projects in the Philippines.
Write to Paula Fabe at Mining.com.au
Images: Celsius Resources
