Matthys takes on Quintis CEO role

Former BHP Billiton executive Julius Matthys has been named interim chief executive of Quintis, after Frank Wilson resigned on Tuesday to plot a takeover of the Indian sandalwood producer.

Mr Matthys is currently deputy chairman of Quintis and was recently named chairman of gold miner Doray Minerals.

He will begin in the role on Monday, with Quintis chairman Dalton Gooding describing the interim boss’s first order of business as a review of the company’s operations and outlook.

“He will perform the interim CEO role while the board assesses the company’s requirements for a permanent CEO,” Mr Gooding said.

“Julius has a comprehensive understanding of Quintis, our business strategy and operations, having served on the board from 2003 to 2005 and from 2011 onwards.

“His proven track record and vast international experience will be of considerable value as we expand the distribution of our wood and oil products to global markets.”

Mr Wilson announced his immediate resignation on Tuesday, to team up with an unnamed overseas corporation that is planning a takeover proposal for Quintis.

If the deal were to succeed, Mr Wilson could return to lead Quintis as an unlisted company.

Quintis shares were 4.5 per cent lower to $1.04 each at 10am.