Toronto, ON – Thursday, October 31, 2024 – The Critical Minerals Institute (CMI), a global leader in critical minerals advocacy and strategic guidance, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Melissa “Mel” Sanderson as its new Co-Chair. With an illustrious career spanning in geopolitics and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies, Mel brings unparalleled expertise and vision to the leadership team at CMI.
Mel’s diplomatic and corporate journey commenced in the US Foreign Service, serving key roles across Latin America, Europe, and Africa from 1985 to 2006. She was pivotal in re-establishing US-DRC relations post-conflict and facilitating the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s first democratic elections in over 40 years. Transitioning to the private sector, Mel served as Director of International Affairs for Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE: FCX), integrating government relations with sustainable development initiatives.
In 2020, Mel founded Sanderson Consulting LLC, advising companies on sustainable development and ESG+ solutions. She also serves on the board of American Rare Earths Limited (ASX: ARR | OTCQX: ARRNF), contributing significantly to the strategic direction in the critical minerals sector. Her extensive experience and insights will be instrumental in guiding CMI’s initiatives and enhancing its global impact.
Newly appointed Co-Chair Melissa “Mel” Sanderson commented: “I am deeply honored to step into the role of Co-Chair at the Critical Minerals Institute, where the work of defining and securing sustainable critical minerals solutions is more essential than ever. This role offers an opportunity to bridge the strategic insights of the public and private sectors, fostering collaboration that can genuinely transform our global approach to resource management. I look forward to joining Tracy Hughes and the entire CMI team to continue advancing our mission and making a lasting impact in the critical minerals sector.”
Tracy Hughes, Executive Director of CMI added: “Mel’s comprehensive experience in both diplomatic and corporate roles equips her uniquely to guide CMI through the evolving challenges of the critical minerals industry. Her leadership will be crucial as we enhance our global impact in the sector.”
Melissa Sanderson joins Jack Lifton as Co-Chair, forming part of a distinguished Board of Directors, which includes Executive Director Tracy Hughes. The Board also comprises Directors Alastair Neill, Alister Macdonald, Christopher Berlet, Stephen Burega, Stephen Lautens, Ian Chalmers, Peter Cashin, Peter Clausi, Christopher Gibbs, Harry Kim, Steve Mackowski, Raj Shah, Geoff Atkins, Lara Smith, Russell Fryer, and Tuan Tran.
About Critical Minerals Institute (CMI).
The Critical Minerals Institute (CMI) is a global organization committed to addressing the challenges and opportunities within the critical minerals sector. CMI equips businesses, governments, and stakeholders with comprehensive resources, offering deep insights into the value, sustainability, and strategic significance of critical materials essential for technological and industrial advancement.
CMI Offerings: Our offerings include exclusive Masterclasses and the weekly Technology Metals Report (TMR), which provide pivotal industry insights. The theme for our 2025 summit, “The War for Critical Minerals and Capital Resources,” focuses on uniting industry leaders to address the pressing issues facing the global critical minerals market. This premier event, CMI Summit IV, is set to take place on May 13-14, 2025, at the National Club in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The CMI Summit aims to foster strategic partnerships and develop actionable solutions that support the growing demand for critical minerals, crucial for the advancement of clean energy, technology, and national security.
To secure a CMI Membership, click here or to secure a CMI Summit IV 2-day Delegates Pass, click here
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