#Canada #Vancouver #International Battery Metals #lithium extraction #Joseph A. Mills

International Battery Metals Ltd: Corporate Update

On April 18, 2025, International Battery Metals Ltd. (IBAT) provided an important corporate update highlighting several significant developments in the company's leadership and stock management as part of its corporate strategy. The company is particularly focused on lithium extraction, which is a vital component for lithium-ion batteries used in various technologies today.

Leadership Changes

The company's Board of Directors recently took several steps to emphasize its commitment to strong leadership in the transition initiating under Joseph A. Mills, who assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer on April 7, 2025. As part of his employment agreement, Mills received a total of 3,000,000 restricted share units (RSUs) as part of an incentive plan to align his interests with the company's performance and growth objectives.

Among these, 1,000,000 RSUs will vest fully on April 7, 2026, while 2,000,000 will be fully vested upon the successful completion and financing of two additional Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) plants, showcasing the company’s ambitious strategy to scale its operations. Mills' RSUs are subject to continuing employment and specific milestones as outlined in his employment agreement, which includes provisions for accelerated vesting in the case of a change in control, designed to ensure stability and confidence in leadership during transitional periods.

In addition to Mills, Norma L. Garcia has also secured a significant position within the company as its General Counsel and Corporate Secretary. Garcia has been granted 400,000 stock options, with an exercise price of C$0.495 per share, which will be fully vested by February 12, 2027, and 100,000 RSUs that vest on February 12, 2028. This dual approach not only rewards Garcia for her crucial role but also fortifies the management team as they navigate future challenges in the battery metal sector.

Company’s Focus on Lithium Extraction

International Battery Metals Ltd. is dedicated to pioneering innovative lithium extraction technologies. Their proprietary methodology revolves around using patented extraction media contained in modular towers, which can be transported and set up efficiently at customer sites. This technology is designed to extract lithium chloride from groundwater salt brine deposits with minimal environmental impact, a growing priority in today's regulated environments.

The company is aware of the critical need for responsible mining processes as communities and regulators put increased pressure on environmentally sustainable practices. With their unique technology, IBAT is positioned to revolutionize lithium extraction while ensuring that operations do not strain local aquifers, instead returning processed water to the subsurface, thus maintaining ecological balances.

Looking Ahead

International Battery Metals Ltd. is confident that the strategic actions announced, including leadership changes and enhanced operational focus, will support its objectives as it expands its footprint in the lithium industry. The company's approach aligns with growing demands for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage solutions, as sustainability becomes a cornerstone of strategic planning in the global marketplace.

As IBAT moves forward under the guidance of its new CEO, Joseph A. Mills, stakeholders will be keenly observing how these changes translate into operational efficiency and market positioning. The exciting developments hint at a proactive mission to not only contribute to the growing battery industry but also set an example of responsible business practices that harmonize profit-making with environmental stewardship.