VANCOUVER, BC – First Canadian Graphite Inc. (TSXV: FCI | OTC: GBMIF | FRANKFURT: BR20) announced the appointment of Michael Iverson to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. The move comes as the company seeks to accelerate development of its Berkwood Graphite Project in Quebec, positioning itself to meet growing demand for graphite in battery and energy storage markets.
Mr. Iverson brings over two decades of experience in the resource sector, having founded Niogold Mining Corp. and co-founded Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. He served as Chairman, CEO, and President of Fortuna until 2016, helping the company evolve into a major silver producer with mines in Peru and Mexico. At Niogold, he led the acquisition and exploration of a significant land package in Val-d’Or, Quebec, which was later acquired by Oban Mining Corp. (now Osisko Mining Inc.) at a substantial premium. Over his career, Mr. Iverson has raised over $100 million and led companies with aggregate market capitalizations exceeding $1 billion.
“The FCI Team is thrilled to welcome Mike to the Board,” said John LaGourgue, CEO of First Canadian Graphite. “He brings extensive experience and a proven track record of building successful resource companies, particularly in Québec, as well as driving shareholder value. Mike will be working closely with management implementing best practices as we expand the resource at our flagship Berkwood Graphite Project and assist the move to becoming a leading graphite producer in North America.”
Mr. Iverson commented: “I am honoured to join the Board of First Canadian Graphite at such an exciting time. With increasing global demand for graphite as a critical material for energy storage and advanced technologies, the Company is well positioned to expand the current resource through drilling and exploration, execute on a PEA and make the required steps towards production.”
The appointment coincides with the resignation of Brijender (Binny) Jassal from the board, who will continue as Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Jassal had served as a director since 2017.
First Canadian Graphite’s flagship Berkwood Graphite Project in northern Quebec contains a 43-101 resource estimate of 3.2 million tonnes of indicated and inferred graphite, averaging grades of 17%. The company aims to supply high-quality graphite to meet demand from battery, energy storage, and advanced manufacturing markets. The company also acknowledges the traditional territory of the Pessamit Innu First Nation and commits to building collaborative relationships.
For more information, visit www.firstcanadiangraphite.com.
