:: Tim Napier-Munn Departure Marks End of an Era at JKMRC

The JKMRC has had three Directors in its history, starting with the Centre's founder, Professor Alban Lynch, who was succeeded by Professor Don McKee - now the Director of the Sustainable Minerals Institute - and more recently Professor Tim Napier-Munn.

It was with some sadness, mixed with good will, that Tim announced at the start of 2004 that he would "retire" from the JKMRC towards the end of the year. And so it came to pass in September, as the decision on who will be the JKMRC's fourth director in as many decades of the Centre's existence became known. Tim Napier-Munn stood down from the twin roles of JKMRC Director and Managing Director of JKTech.

Tim joined the JK Centre in 1985 from De Beers in South Africa becoming the JK's Research Director in 1992 and JKMRC Director in 1997. He was appointed the inaugural MD of JKTech when the company was incorporated in 2001.

Tim said that after nearly 20 years at the JKMRC he needed a change, and it was time for new energies and new directions at the Centre. His move also presented an opportunity to restructure his former roles to recognise that the two organisations - JKMRC and JKTech Pty Ltd - were now of a size and complexity that each required full time attention.

"We have been very fortunate in securing two outstanding individuals to fill the roles " Tim said. The University has appointed Dr Ivan Adair as Director, JKMRC. Dr Adair will take up the appointment in early 2005 as he is currently with Rio Tinto running the Kennecott Copper Concentrator Technical Group on secondment from the Rio Tinto Technology Group. He is a geologist by training, with international experience in both industry and research.

Dr. Rob Morrison has been appointed Acting Director, JKMRC, pending Ivan's arrival.

Dr Geoff Gault joined JKTech as Managing Director in May this year. Geoff has had extensive experience in technical sales in the mining industry, and as a CEO of a number of technology companies. His PhD was earned at the JK Centre.

Meanwhile, Tim Napier-Munn has accepted a part-time appointment with UQ's Sustainable Minerals Institute, with a remit to assist the SMI Director, Don McKee, in major project development, initially with the JKMRC projects in which he is currently involved. He is also looking forward to being able to give more time to his other interests, professional and otherwise.