Lynas Rare Earths has appointed chief operating officer Pol Le Roux as interim chief executive while it continues its search for a permanent successor to Amanda Lacaze.
Lynas Rare Earths has appointed chief operating officer Pol Le Roux as interim chief executive while it continues its search for a permanent successor to Amanda Lacaze.
The ASX-listed rare earths producer told the market after close that it had picked Mr Le Roux to lead the $20 billion company, effective from July 1.
Lynas said that its board – steered by John Humphrey – would update the market on the chief executive search in due course, as Ms Lacaze is due to retire on June 30.
His interim appointment comes after Ms Lacaze announced in January her intention to retire at the end of the financial year following 12 years at the helm.
In the months since, Ms Lacaze has been vocal about wanting her successor to be a woman or someone who looks different, in her words.
Mr Humphrey told the market Ms Lacaze would continue to assist with specific projects and be available to support the CEO transition until the end of September 2026.
“Pol has over 20 years of experience in the rare earths industry and is recognised among our customers, investors and industry for his extensive knowledge of Lynas’ operations and the rare earths market,” he said.
"As interim CEO, Pol will provide continuity and ensure the company continues to progress with the Towards 2030 growth strategy during the transition period.
“On behalf of the board, I thank Amanda for her transformational 12-year tenure as CEO and managing director.”
Mr Le Roux has more than two decades experience in the rare earths industry and overseen both the Western Australian and Malaysian operations.
He joined Lynas in 2010, and has held the roles of vice president of sales and marketing, and also vice president of downstream.
Ms Lacaze's retirement comes after a trailblazing tenure with the miner which she grew from a $400 million to $20 billion company, while breaking China’s stronghold on the heavy rare earths market.
She has been active in the debate over government intervention in the rare earths market, outspoken on policy and productivity issues, and an advocate for women in the mining industry, having called for her successor to be a woman.
The high-profile executive has already taken up a new post at the chair of the Minerals Council of Australia, after being unanimously backed in during a board meeting for the national mining lobbyist last week.
