Estrella Appoints Development-Focused CEO as Timor-Leste Projects Advance

Estrella Resources Limited has appointed Robert Mencel as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, as the company moves from exploration success toward development across its Timor-Leste portfolio. Mr Mencel will transition to Managing Director by 30 June 2026.

Estrella Resources’ new chief executive officer Robert Mencel. Credit: File

The appointment comes as Estrella advances two cornerstone projects: the Ira Miri Manganese Project and the Werumata Limestone Project, both of which have delivered material exploration and drilling milestones over the past year.

Project Background: Scale and Quality Emerging

At Ira Miri, drilling has confirmed a high-grade stratiform manganese system, with multiple intersections commonly exceeding 40–50% Mn. The mineralisation displays favourable metallurgical characteristics, including very low iron and phosphorus levels, enhancing beneficiation potential and product quality. Recent drilling also suggests the presence of stacked or offset manganese horizons, supporting continuity and upside potential.

At Werumata, Estrella has completed more than 3,700 metres of drilling, targeting a large-scale JORC-compliant limestone resource. Drilling has confirmed thick sequences of Baucau Limestone and Batu Putih chalk, with average combined thicknesses of around 57 metres and local intersections exceeding 100 metres. The program has also identified a previously unrecognised marl unit, which may expand the project’s economic footprint.

Leadership Aligned to Execution

Mr Mencel brings more than 25 years of global mining and project development experience, including the delivery of multiple greenfield projects from concept through to production. His background spans industrial minerals, bulk commodities and logistics, with extensive experience working with governments, offtake partners and regional stakeholders.

As part of the transition, Chris Daws will move from Managing Director to a Business Development role from June 2026, focusing on asset opportunities and strengthening strategic and government relationships, ensuring continuity as the company enters its development phase.

Clear Signal to the Market

Estrella said the appointment strengthens its capability to progress resource definition, funding and development planning across its Timor-Leste assets, positioning the company to transition from exploration into execution.

With high-grade manganese results continuing to build momentum at Ira Miri and large-scale limestone drilling now complete at Werumata, Estrella appears well positioned for a pivotal year ahead.