Why Did AKORA Choose Peter Bird to Lead Bekisopa’s Next Growth Stage?

Leadership Transition at AKORA

AKORA Resources Limited (ASX: AKO) has announced the appointment of Peter Bird as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective 16 May 2025. Bird succeeds Paul Bibby, who is retiring from full-time employment after steering the company through significant milestones since its listing in December 2020. Bibby will remain involved as an advisor to ensure a smooth transition.

Peter Bird’s Industry Credentials

Peter Bird brings a wealth of mining industry experience, having held senior executive roles at Rex Minerals, Zenith Minerals, Asiamet Resources, and Excelsior Gold. Notably, he played a key role in the acquisition of Rex Minerals by Mach Metals. His background combines geological expertise with capital markets and investor relations, positioning him well to lead AKORA through its next growth phase.

Strategic Focus on Bekisopa

Bird’s immediate priority will be to advance the Bekisopa Iron Ore Project in Madagascar beyond its recently completed Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS). The project boasts a substantial inferred resource of nearly 195 million tonnes of high-grade iron ore, with low impurities suitable for premium steelmaking. AKORA aims to secure a strategic partner and funding to move toward a final investment decision, underpinning the project’s development as a long-life iron ore operation.

Bekisopa’s Role in Green Steel

AKORA highlights Bekisopa’s potential contribution to the global decarbonization effort, particularly in producing high-grade iron ore for green steel manufacturing using electric arc furnace technology. This aligns the project with growing demand for environmentally sustainable steel production, potentially enhancing its market appeal and strategic importance.

Continuity and Outlook

The company confirms that there are no material changes to the technical assumptions or production targets outlined in previous studies, maintaining confidence in the project’s viability. With Bird at the helm, AKORA is poised to leverage his extensive experience to navigate the challenges of securing investment and advancing Bekisopa toward commercial production.