Kuniko Plans Q1 2026 Drilling at Commonwealth Amid Leadership Change
Kuniko Limited has appointed Maja McGuire as Interim Managing Director amid a leadership transition, with plans to launch a key drilling program targeting gold and silver in early 2026.
- Maja McGuire appointed Interim Managing Director following Antony Beckmand’s resignation
- Q1 2026 drill program to test extensions at Commonwealth gold and silver project
- Continued development of Norwegian battery metals projects including nickel, cobalt, and copper
- Executive consultancy agreement includes partial remuneration in shares pending shareholder approval
- Board reshaped to maintain majority independent directors with focus on growth strategy
Leadership Transition at Kuniko
Kuniko Limited (ASX, KNI) has announced a significant management change with the appointment of Maja McGuire as Interim Managing Director, effective immediately. This follows the resignation of Antony Beckmand, who will remain as CEO until March 19, 2026, to ensure a smooth handover. McGuire brings a wealth of experience from her roles in ASX-listed companies and legal practice, combining strategic leadership with corporate governance expertise.
The board, led by Chairman Gavin Rezos, expressed confidence that this transition will support Kuniko’s growth ambitions, particularly in Australia’s precious metals sector and Europe’s battery metals market.
Strategic Exploration Plans for 2026
Looking ahead, Kuniko is gearing up for a pivotal drill program scheduled for the first quarter of 2026 at its Commonwealth Project in Australia. This program aims to test extensions of known high-grade gold and silver mineralization, alongside targeted step-out drilling at the Silica Hill site. These efforts are expected to underpin an updated Mineral Resource Estimate, potentially enhancing the company’s resource base and valuation.
Simultaneously, Kuniko continues to develop its Norwegian portfolio, which includes nickel, cobalt, and copper projects at Ringerike, Skuterud, and Vaga. These battery metals assets align with global trends toward critical minerals for energy transition, offering diversified exposure beyond precious metals.
Governance and Shareholder Engagement
The board now comprises Chairman Gavin Rezos, Interim Managing Director Maja McGuire, and Non-Executive Director Brendan Borg, maintaining a majority of independent directors. The company’s shareholder base remains robust, with the top 20 shareholders holding 54% of issued capital, providing a solid foundation for executing its growth strategy.
McGuire’s executive consultancy agreement includes a fixed remuneration of $100,000 over six months, with half payable in fully paid ordinary shares subject to shareholder approval at an upcoming general meeting. This arrangement reflects a commitment to aligning management incentives with shareholder interests.
Outlook
As Kuniko transitions leadership and advances its exploration programs, the market will be watching closely for drilling results and shareholder meeting outcomes. The company’s dual focus on precious and battery metals positions it well to capitalize on evolving commodity demand dynamics.
Bottom Line?
Kuniko’s leadership shift and upcoming drilling mark a critical juncture as it seeks to unlock value across its diverse mineral assets.
Questions in the middle?
- What initial results will the Q1 2026 drilling program yield at Commonwealth and Silica Hill?
- How will shareholder approval of the share-based remuneration impact company capital structure?
- What strategic moves will McGuire prioritize to accelerate growth in both Australian and Norwegian projects?
