Sylvain Collard: Pioneering Sayona Mining&#x27;s Lithium Expansion in Quebec<br><br>At the forefront of North America&#x27;s lithium supply, Sayona Mining Limited finds its operational strength in the expertise of Sylvain Collard, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer. Since autumn 2022, Collard has been steering Sayona’s Quebec operations, playing a pivotal role in the development of key lithium projects in the region.<br><br>A Specialist in Mine Project Management<br><br>With a 19-year tenure in the mining industry, Collard’s experience spans across various facets of operations management, particularly in open pit and underground mines. His specialist knowledge in mine project management and continuous process improvement has been crucial in his leadership roles.<br><br>Career Highlights and Global Experience<br><br>Collard’s career is marked by significant achievements, notably his work on IAMGOLD mining projects. His tenure as the manager of a major capital project at the Essakane mine in Burkina Faso, where he directed 3,500 workers, underscores his capability in large-scale project management. His experience extends to managing copper and gold mines and projects across Quebec, Ontario, and the United States.<br><br>Leading Sayona&#x27;s Quebec Operations<br><br>Since joining Sayona, Collard has been at the helm of the company’s operations in Quebec, overseeing three projects in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, as well as the Moblan and Lac-Albert projects. His direct management of these operations under the interim CEO James Brown in Australia demonstrates his strategic role in the company’s growth.<br><br>Restart and Ramp-Up of NAL<br><br>A key achievement under Collard’s leadership has been overseeing the restart and ramp-up process of NAL (North American Lithium). His efforts have been instrumental in the successful start of production at NAL in 2023 and the first shipment to the international lithium market in August 2023.<br><br>Sayona Mining’s Lithium Focus<br><br>Sayona Mining Limited, trading on ASX and OTC markets, is an emerging leader in supplying lithium for the electrification sector in North America. The company’s focus on developing the Abitibi lithium hub in Quebec is central to its strategy.<br><br>Development of Lithium and Gold Projects<br><br>The company’s diverse portfolio includes the North American Lithium mine, the Authier and emerging Tansim Lithium Projects, and exploration assets in Western Australia’s Pilgangoora district. Sayona’s approach to lithium and gold exploration reflects its commitment to supporting the new and green technology sectors.<br><br>Embracing Community and Sustainability<br><br>A notable aspect of Sayona’s operations under Collard’s management is the emphasis on community involvement, particularly with local and First Nations communities. This approach aligns with the company’s vision of sustainable and responsible mining practices.<br><br>Exploring Downstream Processing Opportunities<br><br>Sayona is also exploring the potential for downstream processing, such as lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide production in Quebec. This move represents an expansion of the company’s capabilities in the lithium supply chain.<br><br>A Visionary Leader in Lithium Mining<br><br>Sylvain Collard’s leadership at Sayona Mining Limited is marked by a blend of operational excellence and strategic foresight. His role in managing and expanding the company’s lithium projects in Quebec, combined with his extensive experience in the mining industry, positions him as a key figure in North America’s lithium supply landscape. With Collard’s guidance, Sayona Mining is well on its way to becoming a significant player in the global lithium market, contributing to the electrification and green technology sectors.