< Go Back

Errol Smart steps down as Orion Minerals CEO

Errol Smart, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Orion Minerals, stepped down on 3 April 2025 following significant milestones in the company’s South African base metal projects.

He will be succeeded by Anthony (Tony) Lennox, who has served as a non-executive director. Tony is a highly experienced operational leader with expertise in the construction, development, and operation of large-scale mining projects.

Over the past 12 years, Smart has been instrumental in Orion’s growth, including the acquisition of the Prieska Copper Zinc and Okiep Copper Projects in South Africa. These projects have advanced to the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) stage. His leadership also included building a skilled in-country team, engaging with communities, governments, and stakeholders, and advancing permitting and financing arrangements for both projects.

Orion’s Chairman, Denis Waddell, commented: “With the recent completion of feasibility studies for our flagship projects, Prieska and Okiep, Smart has decided now is the right time to hand over the reins as the company transitions to its next phase as a mine developer and operator.”

ALSO READ:
Orion Minerals set to transform Northern Cape’s Base Metal Industry

Waddell added: “Smart’s contribution over the past 12 years has been immense, shaping Orion from an early-stage explorer into a leading developer of shovel-ready copper projects in South Africa. His dedication and hard work on behalf of shareholders and the Orion team are greatly appreciated. We wish him all the best, and he will remain involved during the transition period.”

Lennox will work closely with the board and executive team to sustain Orion’s strategic momentum and lead the company through its transition from project developer to operational mining company. As a non-executive director, he has already provided valuable insights, particularly in technical and project-related matters.

With over 40 years of experience in mining operations, project development, and corporate leadership, Lennox is well-positioned to guide Orion as it becomes a base metals producer. He has a proven track record of managing large-scale, complex mining projects, including his tenure as Managing Director of Palabora Mining Company (PMC), a major underground copper operation in South Africa. During his leadership, Lennox successfully addressed operational challenges and strategic transitions, significantly extending the mine’s life through the capital project known as Lift 2.