Development-stage phosphate mining company Arianne Phosphate has appointed Raef Sully – a 10-year veteran of Nutrien and its predecessor Potash Corp – as a strategic adviser.
Sully has most recently served as Nutrien executive VP and CEO of the nitrogen and phosphate divisions, where he was responsible for the leadership of its sizeable workforce and multibillion-dollar revenue streams.
He will be beginning his role with Arianne immediately, interfacing with the company's management as they pursue their ongoing discussions with potential partners and offtakers.
Arianne owns the Lac à Paul phosphate project, in Quebec, and has demonstrated the ability to produce a very high-purity/low-contaminant concentrate suitable for use in both fertilizer and specialty applications, such as the lithium-iron phosphate battery.
"During my time in the industry, I have watched Arianne and am impressed with what the project has become," said Sully.
"Today, aside from the excellent quality fertilizer it will produce, I am particularly excited about its opportunity in emerging industrial and battery applications. Arianne's ability to produce such a high-purity concentrate will provide the company a significant opportunity in these specialty markets. I believe that my experience with large-scale development, along with my industry contacts and knowledge, should help Arianne unlock its significant potential."
In conjunction with Sully's appointment, the company will issue 200 000 options. These options entitle him to purchase one common share of the company until November 29, 2024 at a price of $0.355 each.
The company has also granted 400 000 options to members of the board of directors.