Zimbabwe Platinum Mines (Zimplats) announced today that cheif executive, Roy Pitchford, has tendered his resignation.

Mr Pitchford will leave Zimplats on March 31 to pursue new mining business interests.

Over the last four years, he has helped the miner develop into a prominent pgm producer and positioned the company well for further expansion.

'The board extends its appreciation to Roy, and wishes him every success in his new business venture,' Zimplats commented in a statement.

Zimplats also confirmed that Mike Houston, currently CEO of Makwiro Platinum Mines, will become its new CEO from April 1st.

Mr Houston has over 25 years of mining experience in Zimbabwe, playing a key role in the construction, commissioning, and operation of the Ngezi Platinum Mine and the re-commissioning of the Selous Metallurgical Complex.

Greg Sebborn, the group's chief financial officer, will be appointed deputy CEO, while Mr Sebborn will be replaced as CFO by Makwiro Platinum's current CFO, Patrick Maseva-Shayawabaya.