Total Graphite (LSE:TGR), which is developing an integrated mine-to-materials graphite supply chain for the energy transition, has appointed Graeme Chester as Head of Operations in Madagascar.
Chester will oversee the optimisation workstreams at the company's Vatomina project, reporting directly to chief executive Arun Somani, as the company targets a production restart above 1,000 metric tonnes per month from January 2027.
He carried out the recent on-site review that identified the opportunities now being implemented to prepare Vatomina for operational readiness.
"I am excited to be joining the Total Graphite team to provide operational leadership at Vatomina during the current drilling and operational readiness optimisation programme," Chester said.
Seven diamond drill holes have been completed so far in the campaign supporting mine planning for the restart, with assay results still pending.
An independent geologist is reviewing the initial results and helping design the ongoing drill programme, ahead of a site visit planned for August.
SRK's Competent Person's Report from March estimated an exploration target of 18 to 20 million tonnes at 4% graphitic content, alongside the existing resource base of 6 million tonnes at 3.8% graphitic content.
Chester brings roughly 50 years of experience in mining, construction and project management across Africa, Australia and Asia, with a focus on turnarounds and operational improvements.
The company said it expects to announce further drill results on a regular basis as work continues toward the January restart target.
