Euro Manganese Names Martina Blahova Permanent CEO with CAD 450K Salary and Incentives

Leadership Stability at Euro Manganese

Euro Manganese Inc. has formalized the appointment of Martina Blahova as its permanent President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 12, 2025. This follows her interim CEO role since November 2024, during which she demonstrated strategic leadership and operational insight. The Board’s decision reflects confidence in her ability to steer the company through a pivotal growth phase.

Ms. Blahova’s tenure at Euro Manganese dates back to 2018, encompassing senior roles including Chief Financial Officer. Her deep familiarity with the company’s operations and strategic objectives positions her well to lead the advancement of the Chvaletice Manganese Project, a cornerstone asset for the company and a critical resource within the European Union.

Strategic Importance of the Chvaletice Project

The Chvaletice Project in the Czech Republic is unique in its approach, focusing on recycling and remediation of old mine tailings to produce high-purity manganese. This resource is vital for the electric vehicle battery supply chain, aligning with Europe’s broader ambitions for a circular and low-carbon economy. Under Ms. Blahova’s leadership, Euro Manganese aims to solidify its role as a key supplier of battery-grade manganese, supporting the continent’s clean energy transition.

Chairman Rick Anthon highlighted Ms. Blahova’s clear vision and steady guidance, which have helped position the project at the heart of Europe’s decarbonization efforts. The company has recently secured important government designations and strengthened its financial footing, milestones that underscore the project’s strategic relevance.

Executive Contract and Incentives

The announcement also detailed Ms. Blahova’s employment terms, including a fixed annual remuneration of CAD 450,000 and eligibility for a short-term incentive plan offering up to 75% of her salary based on performance targets. Additionally, a long-term incentive plan via stock options aligns her interests with shareholder value creation. Notably, a service bonus equivalent to 12 months’ salary is payable upon a change of control, reflecting retention priorities amid potential corporate developments.

Termination provisions provide for severance and accelerated vesting of stock options if terminated without cause, while resignation requires six weeks’ notice. These terms balance executive security with company flexibility as Euro Manganese navigates the complexities of project development and market conditions.

Looking Ahead

Ms. Blahova’s appointment to the Board of Directors is pending receipt of a director identification number from Australian regulatory authorities, a procedural step that will complete her governance role. As Euro Manganese progresses toward operational milestones, her leadership will be critical in managing financing, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement.

With the European battery materials sector gaining momentum, Euro Manganese’s strategic positioning and leadership continuity could prove decisive in capturing emerging opportunities. Investors and industry watchers will be keen to see how the company translates this leadership stability into tangible project advancement and market impact.