DIVERSIFIED base metal company Breakaway Resources Ltd has appointed senior Perth-based commercial lawyer John Atkins (pictured) as the company’s non-executive chairman. Mr Atkins will take up the position with effect from completion of Breakaway’s annual general meeting on November 24, with current chairman Jon Young remaining on the board as a non?executive director. The appointment of Mr Atkins completes a board restructure overseen by Mr Young, designed to expand the board’s skill base and provide a greater level of independence in line with current corporate governance guidelines and ASX best practice recommendations. Mr Atkins is one of Perth’s most experienced corporate lawyers, with a career spanning more than 25 years. He is currently a senior partner with national law firm Freehills and head of the firm’s Perth office.