Northern Cape-focused Copper 360 has appointed Neal Froneman as chairperson, following the retirement of Rupert Smith, with effect from August 6. Smith resigned in order to reduce his professional commitments.

The Copper 360 board expressed its appreciation to Smith for his service, dedication and stewardship.

"The board is pleased to note that Mr Smith has indicated that he remains, as he has always been, ready to provide support to the company whenever called upon, and the board looks forward to continuing to draw on his experience and counsel," the company points out in a statement to shareholders.

It adds that Froneman is one of the most accomplished and widely respected leaders in the global mining industry.

"As founding CEO of Sibanye-Stillwater, he built the business from a 2013 spin-off of South African gold assets into a leading international precious metals and battery metals group, before concluding his tenure as CEO in 2025.

"An engineer by training, his career spans more than four decades across gold, platinum group metals and green and battery metals," the company states.

The Copper 360 board believes Froneman's appointment brings significant additional depth to an already well-balanced and capable board.

In particular, his appointment is expected to contribute extensive operational and executive leadership experience across multiple commodities and mining jurisdictions; a proven record of value creation through disciplined capital allocation and well-executed strategic mergers and acquisitions; deep insight into global commodity markets and the metals underpinning the energy transition; strong relationships across investors, financiers, governments, regulators and organised labour; and recognised leadership in corporate governance, safety, sustainability and stakeholder engagement.

"The board is confident Froneman's strategic guidance and industry standing will support the delivery of long-term, sustainable value for shareholders and looks forward to his contribution as chairperson."