Lithium Universe Limited appoints Iggy Tan as full-time CEO and Executive Chairman, signalling a strategic push to fast-track lithium refinery projects and innovative recycling technologies.
- Iggy Tan appointed full-time CEO and Executive Chairman
- Focus on accelerating Bécancour and Port of Brownsville lithium refineries
- Dr Jingyuan Liu promoted to part-time Executive Director for technical leadership
- Incentive package includes 30 million unlisted options pending approvals
- Advancement of silver extraction technology from photovoltaic panel recycling
Leadership Shift to Drive Lithium Project Momentum
Lithium Universe Limited has formalised a key leadership change by appointing Iggy Tan as its full-time Chief Executive Officer while retaining his role as Executive Chairman. This move comes as the company positions itself to capitalise on early signs of recovery in the lithium market and to accelerate the development of its flagship projects.
Mr Tan, who has been Executive Chairman since April 2024 and acting CEO on a part-time basis since mid-2025, brings a wealth of operational expertise and a proven track record in lithium project delivery. His leadership was instrumental in completing the Definitive Feasibility Study for the Bécancour Lithium Refinery Project in Québec, a cornerstone initiative aimed at producing battery-grade lithium carbonate for the burgeoning North American electric vehicle market.
Strategic Expansion with Second Refinery and Recycling Innovation
Alongside the Bécancour project, Lithium Universe is advancing a second lithium refinery in the Port of Brownsville, Texas. This facility is designed to complement the Québec refinery and strengthen North America’s lithium supply chain resilience. The Texas site benefits from strategic advantages such as deep-water port access and favourable regional business conditions, aligning with U.S. policy incentives.
In parallel, the company is pushing forward with its innovative silver extraction technology from photovoltaic (PV) solar panel recycling. By leveraging Macquarie University’s Microwave Joule Heating Technology and Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction methods, Lithium Universe aims to address the growing global demand for silver, a critical component in solar panels and electronics, while promoting sustainable recycling practices.
Strengthening Technical Leadership
To support this next phase, Dr Jingyuan Liu has been appointed as a part-time Executive Director. Dr Liu’s expertise in chemical engineering and lithium processing technologies will be pivotal in advancing both refinery projects and optimising the company’s silver extraction processes. His role underscores Lithium Universe’s commitment to technical excellence as it transitions from feasibility studies to active project execution.
The company has also outlined a remuneration package for Mr Tan that includes a base salary of $295,000 plus a substantial incentive option package of 30 million unlisted options at varying exercise prices, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals. This package is designed to align executive incentives with shareholder value creation as Lithium Universe moves into a more active development phase.
Positioning for Market Recovery and Growth
Lithium Universe’s leadership changes and strategic initiatives reflect a broader industry trend of preparing for a sustained lithium market recovery. With electric vehicle battery capacity expected to surge in North America, the company’s focus on closing the lithium conversion gap positions it as a potentially significant player in the regional supply chain. The dual refinery approach, combined with innovative recycling technologies, offers a diversified pathway to growth and sustainability.
Bottom Line?
With leadership firmly in place, Lithium Universe is set to accelerate its transition from development to delivery, closely watching lithium market dynamics.
Questions in the middle?
- How soon will shareholder approvals for the CEO’s incentive options be secured?
- What are the expected timelines for the Port of Brownsville refinery’s feasibility and construction phases?
- How will Lithium Universe scale its silver extraction technology commercially amid rising silver demand?