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- DRA Global (DRA) officially appoints Mr James Smith as CEO, effective immediately
- Mr Smith has been interim CEO since March and brings over 25 years of experience in the mining, industrial and financial sectors
- He was previously the Executive Vice President of DRA’s business Minopex, when he led the diversification strategy and oversaw Minopex’s expansion into new regions
- DRA Global Chair Peter Mansell says Mr Smith’s “solid performance” as interim CEO and his impressive knowledge will be “instrumental” to the company
- DRA Global shares last traded at $2 each on September 30
DRA Global (DRA) has appointed James Smith as CEO, effective immediately.
Mr Smith has been acting as interim CEO since March this year after former Managing Director and CEO Mr Andrew Naude handed his resignation after almost a decade.
As he officially steps into the role of Chief Executive Officer, Mr Smith brings over 25 years of experience in the mining, industrial and financial sectors.
After starting out as a process engineer in the mining industry, he has since held different leadership positions in consulting, investment advisory and operations.
The new CEO also has a strong knowledge of DRA’s business as in 2018 he was appointed Executive Vice President of DRA’s operations and maintenance services business, Minopex. During this time, Mr Smith led DRA’s diversification strategy and oversaw the expansion of Minopex across the EMEA region.
“For many years, James has proven himself as a strong leader who is highly qualified in every respect,” DRA Global Chair Peter Mansell said.
“James’ impressive credentials, coupled with his solid performance as Interim CEO, in-depth knowledge of the business and its operations, and strategic mindset, will be instrumental for DRA and its shareholders.”
Mr Smith also commented on his appointment, describing it as a “great honour” to officially take up the role.
“It’s a truly unique business within the global mining industry and I’m excited to take on this opportunity as we redefine the future of mining,” he said.
“I am fortunate to have the board’s support and a strong leadership team behind me and I thank the board for entrusting me with DRA’s next chapter.”
Mr Smith’s term as CEO is ongoing and his fixed remuneration is R 5.5 million (A$480,000) per annum.
DRA Global shares last traded at $2 each on September 30.
