Corella’s new, big-hitting CEO has the drive to take its HPA project to the next level

Corella’s plans to become a significant supplier of critical minerals has received a big boost with the appointment of well-regarded mining executive Jess Maddren to the new role of chief executive officer.

Maddren has over 20 years of diverse expertise across the entire business with a proven track record of progressing projects and a strong background in mining operations, mineral processing, project development, technical studies, R&D, marketing and offtake.

She also served in a range of leadership roles around the globe including segment director with Schneider Electric, general manager with Downer, general and project manager with ALS Limited.

Corella Resources’ (ASX:CR9) managing director Tony Cormack said Maddren’s wealth of experience across a number of sectors will benefit the company as it moves to the next phase of development.

“Jess is passionate about the role along with having the experience, skill set and network to excel in the role,” he added.

“With Jess at the helm I have every confidence that Corella will be in very safe hands as the company works through the all-important transition from explorer-developer to a mining company.”

Corella is focused on developing its Tampu high purity alumina (HPA) project in WA’s Wheatbelt, which has just seen resources upgraded by 21% to 24.7Mt with half of that deemed as being suitable for use as HPA feedstock while the remaining half is still suitable for the high-purity silica market which is used to make solar PV cells.

Maddren is also keen to take the company into the next phase of asset development, strategy and growth.

“Our focus on HPA raw material necessitates low impurities from the start, as we strive to create high purity alumina for specialised applications and customers,” she noted.

“Unlocking the true value of our resources lies in understanding the geology and mineralogy, streamlining processing and operational design, and forging strong connections from the mine to the end market.

“Moreover, I eagerly anticipate engaging with local communities to foster enduring relationships and beneficial regional impacts, fostering mutual growth and prosperity.”

HPA in high demand

HPA is used in high-tech applications such as smartphones, LEDs and lithium-ion batteries, so it is no surprise that demand is becoming increasingly high.

While it was traditionally produced from aluminium metal, HPA is increasingly produced from kaolin at a lower cost and environmental impact.

Highlighting just how lucrative its production can be, extremely high-quality HPA can command prices of up to $70,000 AUD per tonne.

It is this value that makes Corella especially keen to develop Tampu, which has the high (and consistent) kaolin grades that make it especially attractive for HPA production.

This article was developed in collaboration with Corella Resources, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.