Western Areas managing director and co-founder Julian Hanna will step down at the end of January, capping off 12 years at the helm of the nickel miner.
Mr Hanna will remain with the company as a non-executive director, and will also remain as chairman of Western Areas' subsidiary FinnAust Mining, which is planned to be listed on London’s Alternative Investment Market early next year.
Western Areas chairman Terry Streeter said Mr Hanna had excelled in his time as managing director.
“Julian has played a major part in growing Western Areas and in acquiring and developing the substantial assets that form the backbone of our company’s value during his 12 years in the role,” Mr Streeter said in a statement.
“Since the first days of Western Areas, Julian has put a huge effort into making this company the success it is today.”
Mr Hanna will address shareholders at Western Areas’ annual general meeting on November 18.
At close of trade today Western Areas shares had lost half a percent in value, to finish at $5.76.
