Kennedy Ventures plc announced the appointment of Mr. Larry F. Johnson as a director and the new Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect. Mr. Johnson replaces Peter Hibberd who steps down from the role. Larry Freeman Johnson, aged 58, has more than 25 years' experience in the tantalum industry having worked with two large US based publicly listed companies with core interests in tantalum.

Throughout his career, Larry has held several senior key positions, most recently as Director: Mining and Global Tantalum Supply Chain at KEMET Electronics Corporation. Significantly, Larry spent several years focussing on the development of conflict-free global supply chains, which will be of material benefit for the Company's investee, Aftan. Larry's knowledge of the world tantalum market will enable the Company to consider its future investment strategy as it grows, facilitating further investments in the sector.

Peter Hibberd has been with the Company for two years and steps down from the board to pursue other business interests.