New CEO Tony Swiericzuk to Lead VRX’s Push Toward 2Mtpa Silica Sand Output

Leadership Transition at VRX Silica

VRX Silica Limited (ASX – VRX) has unveiled a carefully planned succession strategy for its chief executive role, marking a pivotal moment as the company prepares to transition from exploration to production. Managing Director Bruce Maluish, who has been instrumental in steering VRX into the silica sand sector and navigating complex regulatory approvals, will step down from his executive role in 2026. Importantly, Maluish will remain involved as a Non-Executive Director, ensuring continuity and support during this critical phase.

The new CEO, Tony Swiericzuk, is a seasoned mining executive with over three decades of experience spanning exploration, operations, and project development. His track record includes managing large-scale mining projects and bulk port operations, notably his leadership at FMG’s Christmas Creek Mine, where he oversaw significant production ramp-ups and operational optimisation.

Strategic Focus on Arrowsmith North and Muchea

Swiericzuk’s appointment aligns with VRX’s strategic imperative to bring its flagship Arrowsmith North silica sand project into production. Located 270km north of Perth, Arrowsmith North boasts a minimum 25-year mine life with the capacity to produce over 2 million tonnes per annum of high-grade silica sand, targeting the foundry, container glass, and flat glass markets in Asia. The company is also advancing development at Muchea, an ultra-high-grade silica sand project near Perth, aimed at supplying the specialty glass and solar panel industries.

The phased transition plan sees Swiericzuk joining VRX on a part-time basis from February 2026, moving to full-time CEO by July 2026. During this interim, Maluish will continue as Managing Director, facilitating a smooth handover. This approach underscores VRX’s commitment to stable leadership as it navigates the complexities of moving from project development to operational production.

Incentives and Performance Targets

Swiericzuk’s executive package includes a base salary with performance-linked incentives designed to align leadership with key operational milestones. Short-term incentives, payable in equity or cash, will be measured against health and safety, construction and production progress, cost management, and product quality. Long-term incentives include options and performance rights tied to production ramp-up targets and project approvals, reflecting VRX’s focus on delivering tangible results.

Chairman Paul Boyatzis highlighted Swiericzuk’s suitability to lead VRX through this transformative phase, praising his comprehensive industry knowledge and proven ability to scale mining operations efficiently. The board also expressed gratitude to Maluish for his visionary leadership and ongoing commitment to the company’s future success.

Positioning for Market Demand

VRX operates in a market where high-quality silica sand is increasingly scarce, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, driving demand and pricing. The company’s projects are well positioned to supply critical industrial sectors including foundry casting and glass manufacturing, where product purity and grain specifications are paramount. With regulatory approvals advancing and a new CEO at the helm, VRX is poised to capitalise on these market dynamics.