ROYAL OAK–Graphex Technologies LLC, a subsidiary of Graphex Group Ltd. (NYSE American: GRFX | HKSE: 6128), developers of processing technologies for natural graphite for use in lithium-ion batteries, announced the formation of its U.S. strategic advisory committee.
The advisory committee is being formed to provide advice and consultation by professionals across multiple industries to accelerate Graphex’s business opportunities. It is expected that shares of Graphex that are granted to the advisors will be subject to a 12-month lock-up restriction.
Graphex has retained Greg McKenzie and Tom Rooney as strategic advisors and the first members of its newly announced advisory committee. Additional members will be announced in the coming weeks.
McKenzie arrives with experience in metals and mining, most recently serving as chairman and CEO of Maritime Iron Inc., a Toronto-based company developing a merchant pig iron plant. His input will help to further advance Graphex’s reputation as leaders in manufacturing and production. His previous experience in investment banking will bring value to Graphex as the company continues to expand its presence in North America and pursue new avenues for capital investments and market positioning.
Rooney joins Graphex with a background not only in energy and infrastructure, but also executive experience in leading public companies through growth transformations and operational turnarounds. He has served as a board member at Central States Water Resources, Integrated Water Services, and Crom Corp., among others.
“We have reached a pivotal period in our strategic growth plan. The depth and breadth of the experience, guidance, and counsel that these gentlemen bring will help us navigate the next phases of development and positioning,” said John DeMaio, Graphex CEO. “Graphex continues to lead with deep production experience coupled with the ability to quickly bring facilities online to meet the unprecedented demand for refined graphite in North America. This advisory committee will further advance the Company’s work to increase graphite production globally and to onshore mid-stream critical mineral supply chains. Each advisor brings a wealth of experience across various sectors to support our global expansion and overall business strategy. I look forward to working closely with each of them.”
Graphex is currently among the top 10 suppliers of specialized spherical graphite to the EV and renewable energy industries. As the projected demand for EVs and other sustainable energy solutions continues to grow, there is a correlated increase in demand for the critical minerals necessary to manufacture the Li-ion batteries that power them. Graphex’s graphite processing plant in Warren is forecasted to be operational in 2024 and is on track to be one of the only plants in the U.S. to have a North American supply chain of natural graphite.
More at www.graphexgroup.com.