Canyon Resources Taps Peter Secker to Lead Minim Martap’s Next Growth Phase

Leadership Transition Marks Strategic Shift

Canyon Resources Limited (ASX: CAY) has announced a significant leadership change as it prepares to enter a critical phase of growth for its flagship Minim Martap bauxite project in Cameroon. Peter Secker will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on July 1, 2025, succeeding Jean Sebastien Boutet, who will move into a newly created role as Chief Commercial & Corporate Development Officer.

This transition comes at a pivotal moment for Canyon, which is focused on completing the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) and advancing key development milestones toward production. The company’s leadership reshuffle reflects a strategic intent to leverage Secker’s extensive operational and project delivery expertise to navigate the complexities of moving from development to production.

Boutet’s Legacy and New Role

Jean Sebastien Boutet’s tenure as CEO since early 2022 has been transformative. Under his leadership, Canyon achieved critical milestones including the completion of the Bankable Feasibility Study, securing the Mining Licence for Minim Martap, attracting strategic investment from Eagle Eye Asset Holdings, and arranging financing for essential rolling stock. These achievements have positioned Canyon as a leading bauxite developer with a clear path to production.

In his new role, Boutet will focus on commercial strategy, offtake partnerships, and corporate development, areas crucial for securing long-term revenue streams and market positioning as the company transitions into production. His continued involvement ensures continuity and retention of institutional knowledge during this growth phase.

Secker’s Proven Track Record

Peter Secker brings over four decades of global mining experience, with a career spanning project development, operations, and corporate leadership across multiple continents and commodities. Notably, he led Bacanora Lithium through the development of the Sonora Lithium Project in Mexico, one of the world’s largest greenfield lithium resources, before its acquisition by Ganfeng Lithium in 2023.

Secker’s expertise in taking projects from greenfield stages through commissioning and production, combined with his success in raising over $2 billion in capital, aligns well with Canyon’s ambitions. His background in diverse mining environments and commodities adds a layer of operational resilience and strategic insight as Canyon navigates the complexities of bauxite production.

Market Context and Strategic Outlook

The timing of this leadership change coincides with strengthening fundamentals in the global bauxite market. Increasing demand and looming supply shortages underscore the strategic importance of Canyon’s Minim Martap project. Executive Chairman Mark Hohnen highlighted the appointment as a critical step in building a long-term, sustainable bauxite producer capable of delivering strong returns.

Secker’s appointment signals Canyon’s readiness to accelerate development and capitalize on market opportunities. His advisory role leading up to July will focus on finalising the DFS and aligning strategic initiatives, ensuring a smooth leadership handover and continuity in execution.

As Canyon moves closer to production, the interplay between Secker’s operational expertise and Boutet’s commercial acumen will be key to unlocking shareholder value and establishing Canyon as a significant player in the bauxite sector.