Matthews to lead graphite play

Former MZI Resources managing director Trevor Matthews has been named chief executive of local graphite hopeful Volt Resources.

Mr Matthews will begin in his new role as CEO from the start of next year, while Stephen Hunt will transition from his current role as executive chairman to non-executive chair.

Mr Matthews announced his resignation from MZI earlier this month after four and a half years at the helm. During this time he helped the mineral sands miner’s flagship asset, the Keysbrook mine, transition from an exploration project to a producing mine.

Volt is exploring for graphite at its Nachingwea project in Tanzania, which consists of 18 tenements.

In his new role, Mr Matthews will receive a base salary of $270,000 per annum plus superannuation and incentives.

"After a focused search, the board is delighted to secure the services of a high-calibre and seasoned CEO in Trevor Matthews,” Mr Hunt said.

“With relevant project development and finance experience, coupled with a proven track record and strategic global mind-set, Trevor has the credentials to lead Volt through to production.

“Moreover, Trevor has an excellent rapport with numerous institutional investors built up over many years and is a highly competent corporate marketer that will be essential to articulating Volt’s competitive advantages.”

Volt shares were 3 per cent higher to 6.7 cents each at the close of trade.