ASX- and JSE-listed Orion Minerals, which is developing the Prieska copper/zinc mine and the Okiep copper project in South Africa's Northern Cape province, has appointed Stephen Rowse interim CFO, with effect from October 22.

He takes over from Peet van Coller who is stepping down with immediate effect.

Van Coller joined Orion as CFO in April 2023 and has played an important role in strengthening the company’s finance function and supporting the advancement of the Prieska and Okiep projects.

“On behalf of the board and the Orion team, I would like to thank Peet for his contribution to the company over the past three and a half years. Peet has made a significant contribution to the company’s finance and reporting functions and has provided steady financial leadership as we have continued to advance our key South African copper projects towards development," comments Orion MD and CEO Tony Lennox.

Rowse is a chartered accountant with more than 20 years’ experience in senior finance roles, including significant experience in the mining industry and with companies listed on the ASX, JSE and the LSE's Aim.

He was previously GM: finance and administration of ASX-, JSE- and Aim-listed MC Mining, where he was responsible for the group’s finance function, and most recently served as CFO of JSE-listed Sail Mining Group.

Orion has engaged an executive recruitment firm and is progressing a search for a suitably qualified permanent CFO to support the company through its next phase of development. It points out that it has received strong interest in the role and that the recruitment process is progressing.

"We are pleased to welcome Stephen to Orion as interim CFO. His senior finance experience in the mining industry and familiarity with the ASX, JSE and international capital markets will provide continuity while we complete the recruitment process for a permanent CFO.

"We remain focused on appointing an experienced finance executive with the skills and experience to support Orion as we advance the Prieska and Okiep projects and continue our transition towards mine development and production,” Lennox says.