Lithium Universe Limited (ASX: LU7) announced on 23 October 2026 a significant management transition, with Chief Executive Officer Mr Iggy Tan and Chief Technical Officer Dr Jingyuan Liu tendering their resignations. Both executives will conclude their roles with the company on 30 October 2026 to pursue other opportunities. Lithium Universe Limited is an ASX-listed entity focused on developing lithium refinery projects. The company also advances a portfolio of advanced recycling technologies for various valuable materials. The Board expressed gratitude for their contributions and confirmed that a formal search has commenced for a new Chief Executive Officer to guide the company through its next phase of growth and development.
Chairman Gernot Abl acknowledged the instrumental contributions of Mr Tan and Dr Liu, highlighting their commitment and leadership since the company’s formation. Under their tenure, the company advanced its technology portfolio, including the completion of the Definitive Feasibility Study for the Bécancour Lithium Refinery and the Pre-Feasibility Study for the Brownsville Lithium Refinery. Furthermore, they spearheaded the company’s expansion into advanced recycling technologies, such as the acquisition and development of the silver extraction technology for end-of-life photovoltaic solar panels in collaboration with Macquarie University, and the gold and copper extraction technology for electronic waste in partnership with the University of Edinburgh. These efforts have established a substantial technical and intellectual property platform for Lithium Universe.
Despite these executive changes, Lithium Universe remains focused on its strategic initiatives. The company will continue advancing its lithium refinery strategy, including planned North American opportunities, alongside the development and commercialisation of its technology portfolio. This portfolio encompasses the licensed Gold Copper Diamide Extraction (GCDE) technology for gold and copper recovery from electronic waste, and the Microwave Joule Heating Technology (MJHT) and Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE) technologies for recovering valuable materials from end-of-life solar panels. The Board reiterated its commitment to assessing priorities across these initiatives, focusing on advancing project development, evaluating commercial opportunities, and creating long-term shareholder value.
