Defense Metals Corp Welcomes Mark Tory as New CEO Amid Senior Leadership Changes

Defense Metals Corp Welcomes New Executive Leadership

In a move aimed at boosting its strategic vision, Defense Metals Corp. has announced major changes in its executive team as it prepares for an exciting new chapter. The Vancouver-based company, also known by its stock symbols (TSXV: DEFN, OTCQB: DFMTF, FSE: 35D), is proud to introduce Mark Tory as the newly appointed President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. This transition marks a significant moment for the company as it focuses on the development of its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element (REE) Project.

Mark Tory comes on board to succeed Dr. Luisa Moreno, who has previously served in the President role. Although Dr. Moreno will no longer hold the President title, she is set to continue her affiliation with the company as a vital member of the Board of Directors. Her expertise and insights will no doubt guide Defense Metals through this transitional phase. Meanwhile, Mr. Martin Cronin has chosen not to stand for re-election following the company’s latest Annual General Meeting. However, he will continue to support Defense Metals in an advisory capacity.

The Board of Directors has also welcomed Mr. Tory as a new director, expanding their numbers to six. Joining the ranks alongside Tory are notable figures: Suzanne Folsom, Luisa Moreno, Guy de Selliers, Dale Wallster, and Ted Kavanagh. This diversified assembly of directors is expected to provide robust leadership and direction as the company navigates its growth trajectory.

Mr. Alex Heath has been appointed as the Corporate Secretary and will maintain his responsibilities as Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This consolidation of critical roles is aimed at ensuring a seamless operational infrastructure within the company, which is undeniably beneficial during this pivotal time.

Guy de Selliers, the Executive Chair of Defense Metals, expressed his enthusiasm about welcoming Mark to the company, elaborating that Tory’s wealth of leadership experience is anticipated to greatly enhance the management team's effectiveness. De Selliers also took the opportunity to extend gratitude toward Dr. Moreno for her ongoing commitment to the company and appreciated Mr. Cronin's past contributions, emphasizing the importance of fostering a strong leadership core.

A Closer Look at the Wicheeda REE Project

Defense Metals Corp. is firmly positioned in the rare earth elements sector, focusing on the sustainable development of its Wicheeda REE Project. This project spans an impressive 11,800 hectares, approximately 29,158 acres, and rests in the heart of the traditional territory of the McLeod Lake Indian Band in British Columbia, Canada. The Wicheeda Project is easily accessible, situated around 80 kilometers northeast of Prince George, with well-established transportation routes, including paved highways and all-weather gravel roads.

In addition to its accessibility, the site's proximity to critical infrastructure, such as hydro power transmission lines and gas pipelines, facilitates not only development but also transport operations, ensuring the potential for efficient mining activities. Furthermore, the Canadian National Railway and major highways provide vital links to port facilities at Prince Rupert, which is notably the closest North American port to Asia. This strategic positioning is designed to maximize the efficiency of logistics and distribution as the company aims to ramp up production to meet the growing global demand for rare earth elements.

As Defense Metals fosters its vision under the new leadership of Mark Tory, stakeholders and industry watchers alike are keenly anticipating how his tenure will influence the company's trajectory and impact in the global rare earth market. With a dedication to constant innovation and a robust management team, the company is poised for future success.

For any further information or inquiries, please visit Defense Metals Corp.'s website or contact Alex Heath, Senior VP of Corporate Development and Interim CFO, at +1 604-354-2491 or through email at [email protected].

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