Critical Metals Corp (NASDAQ: CRML ) announced the appointment of Michael C. Ryan, a seasoned executive with over 40 years of experience in the U.S. Department of Defense, as an independent director to its Board.
Effective March 1, 2025, Ryan will also serve as Chairman of the Audit Committee, expanding the Board to five directors.Ryan's extensive background includes service in the United States Air Force and key roles supporting the Secretary of Defense.
His expertise is expected to be particularly valuable as Critical Metals Corp advances the development of the Tanbreez Project in Greenland, which is one of the world's largest rare earth deposits with over 27% heavy rare earth elements, essential for defense applications.
Tony Sage, CEO and Chairman of Critical Metals Corp, expressed confidence in Ryan's defense leadership and military background, stating that Ryan is well-suited to oversee corporate governance during the development of the Tanbreez project, which is anticipated to produce materials vital for defense.
Ryan most recently held the position of Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for European and NATO Policy at the U.S. Department of Defense, where he managed policy issues concerning Europe, NATO, and other regions, including Russia and the Middle East. In his remarks, Ryan emphasized the importance of rare earth elements and critical minerals for national security in the West and expressed eagerness to contribute to the company's engagement with the defense industry.
Prior to his government service, Ryan had a distinguished 25-year career in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Colonel. He is an alumnus of the French War College, a National Defense Fellow on Capitol Hill, a graduate of the National Intelligence University, and holds a Master’s Degree in International Relations from Troy University.
Critical Metals Corp is focused on mining critical metals and minerals essential for electrification and next-generation technologies in Europe and its Western allies. The company's flagship Tanbreez Project in Southern Greenland boasts an estimated resource of 4.7 billion tonnes, including 28.2 million tonnes of total rare earth oxides.
Additionally, the Wolfsberg Lithium Project in Austria represents a strategic asset in Europe's critical metals portfolio, poised to support the continent's lithium market.