End of an era for Western Areas

Julian Hanna has announced his retirement from the board of nickel miner Western Areas, after serving as its inaugural managing director for over a decade and then taking on a non-executive role.

Mr Hanna will leave his position as a director and step down from the company next Wednesday.

He spent 12 years as managing director of the company, steering Western Areas through its $5 million initial public offering in 2000, before handing the reins over to Dan Lougher in 2012.

He led the business alongside long-time chairman Terry Streeter, who left the business in 2013 to be succeeded by Ian Macliver.

Mr Hanna’s motive for leaving Western Areas was largely attributed to his ongoing role as managing director of MOD Resources.

“Julian was one of the key early architects in setting up the Western Areas business for the success it now enjoys and has been a passionate contributor as a non-executive director since stepping down as managing director,” Mr Macliver said.

His position will not be filled, with the company’s board to comprise of six directors when Mr Hanna leaves next week.

Western Areas shares were unchanged at $2.29 each at the close of trade.