Chris K. Wilmot

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Chris is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Critical Minerals Refining and the President and Chief Executive Officer of WCW International Company Limited.

He has over 40 years in the oil and gas industry and international business development.  He ventured with Fortune 500 companies in the United States and Global companies seeking to pursue strategic growth opportunities in Africa. Chris is also the Chairman of Glory Infrastructure Inc.

Prior to establishing Takoradi Refinery Company Limited, he was a career engineer, production supervisor and held senior executive level management positions at Atlantic Richfield (ARCO), a major oil and gas company, USA.

 He is currently involved as a strategic alliance partner with several major United States consulting, engineering, energy, management and security operations firms.

• Education:
  Bsc. EE, Tuskegee University, Alabama
• Memberships: IEEE, SPE, ASME

He honorably served and continues to serve on numerous commissions and boards notably:

• Delegate to the United States Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Trade and Investment Missions to Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, The Gambia and Senegal.
• Chairman, City of Houston’s Mayor’s International Affairs Development Council – Africa (2002 – 2003)
• Member of the Board of Directors for the Greater Houston Partnership (2000 – 2013)
• Chairman of the Board Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau (2004 – 2005)
• International Treasurer, Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (2005 – 2006)
• Chairman of the Greater Houston Partnership World Bank Task Force (2010 – 2011).
• Congressional Briefing Moderator: “The Impact of the United States Energy Policy on Trade with the Gulf of Guinea.”
• President and Chief Executive Officer, WCW International, Inc
  (1991 – 2014)
• Chairman of Aviance Ghana Limited (2011 – 2014).
• Chairman of the Greater Houston Partnership World Trade Board
  (2012 – 2013).
• Congressional Briefing Moderator: “The Impact of the United States Energy Policy on Trade with the Gulf of Guinea.”
• Commissioner, City of Houston Clean City Commission
  (from 1990 – present)
• Board Member – Mickey Leyland Kibbutzim Foundation
  (from 1995 – present)

His current engagements include:

• Chairman & Chief Executive of Glory Infrastructure
  Company Limited
• Executive Chairman, Fortune Sustainable Energy & Engineering Company Limited
• Director of McDermott Fortune Company Limited
• Executive Director of AL Bashair Investment Company LLC
• Chris Wilmot, has unrivalled local knowledge and uniquely positioned through extensive business networks across Africa and the United States, providing access to exceptional investment opportunities
• Under the Chairmanship of Chris Wilmot, Takoradi Refinery Company Limited (TRCL) is uniquely placed to ride on the wave of the economic growth in Africa over the next two decades
• Possesses an experienced management team with complimentary skills and proven capability in investing in Africa, employing sound corporate governance
• Has proven track record in execution capability, value creation, and ability to generate superior returns by assembling key strategic partners
• Married with four children

Chip Bayless

Chief Strategy Officer

Chip Bayless is the Critical Minerals Refining Strategic Planning executive. Chip has extensive mining experience in diverse locations from Congo (DRC) to Mexico. Mr. Bayless has provided operational planning and oversight for multi-billion-dollar projects in the private sector.

Mr. Bayless Is an accomplished business professional with over 25 years of experience in senior management positions, focusing on strategy, policy, and program development. He has a proven track record in delivering results in high-pressure environments through creative problem-solving, operational excellence, and effective team building.

He’s the co-founder of a high-grade critical minerals mine, which is worth over $70 billion.

He has been a senior advisor to several African leaders and US officials, such as the Former National Security Advisor to the President of the United States, General James L. Jones.

David Bell

Chief Administration Officer

David Bell is an exceptional individual with a deep commitment to strong ethics and an unwavering moral compass. His extensive education and relentless hard work have positioned him as a highly accomplished professional with many organizational utilities.

As the Chief Administration Officer at CMR, Mr. Bell brings a wealth of experience in creative solutions, business development, brand development, management, visual identity, informational technology, and marketing. Throughout his career, Mr.Bell has consistently showcased his ability to excel in diverse industries within established corporate structures or in building innovative and unique corporate frameworks.

Mr. Bell’s expertise lies in the development, execution, and management of essential business processes that foster a healthy and profitable company culture. His exceptional leadership skills have been instrumental in driving the success of numerous start-ups, and he has played a pivotal role in the growth and development of consumer electronics, global development, and risk mitigation brands, including 501(c)3 charities.

With over 20 years of experience, Mr. Bell has consistently provided invaluable support across various industries, including advertising, editorial, insurance, consumer electronics, industrial, non-profit, and emerging-market development. His dedication to marketing and the arts has taken him overseas as a project lead, where he has successfully managed multi-million-dollar branding campaigns during numerous product launches.

As the CAO at CMR, Mr. Bell has the opportunity to leverage his unique and varied professional insight to establish strong leadership skills and drive CMR’s market leadership. His exceptional talents in brand enhancement, marketing support, visual edge, and executive-level support will undoubtedly contribute to CMR’s continued success and growth.

Mr. Bell’s innovative genius, unmatched creativity, and extensive education make him an invaluable asset to CMR and a driving force behind the company’s success.

Evan Palmer

Chief Experience Officer

Over 30 years of professional experience in Business Development, Logistics, and sales. Mr. Palmer is a strategist who builds strong, dedicated client relationships and partnerships that are built on trust and proven excellence. Highly motivated entrepreneurial passion who leads companies to growth and market differentiation with a record of implementing the necessary business development strategies to accomplish breakthrough sales objectives while creating unique market-entry strategies, managing business relationships, building credibility, and establishing immediate rapport with potential clients. Demonstrated ability to identify opportunities and create long-term value for organizations.

Dr. Hyacinthe K. NDRI

Chief Research Officer

Dr. Hyacinthe K. Ndri, a native of Côte d’Ivoire in West Africa, developed a passion for the medical field at a young age, inspired by his older brother who was completing medical school. After finishing high school, Dr. Ndri pursued undergraduate studies in Business Administration at the University of Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire. However, his true calling led him to Dallas, Texas, where he embarked on his lifelong dream of working in the medical field.

In the early 1990s, Dr. Ndri enrolled at the University of Texas in Dallas to study pre-pharmacy. Following this, he relocated to Houston, Texas, to pursue a degree in Pharmacy, ultimately earning his doctorate at Texas Southern University. With over 20 years of experience in the pharmacy industry, Dr. Ndri decided to venture into entrepreneurship in 2005 by establishing his own successful pharmacy.

In addition to his achievements in the pharmacy field, Dr. Ndri has also engaged in various business ventures, including commodities trading, social housing, and land development in Côte d’Ivoire. Recognizing his contributions and connections within the business and political sectors, Dr. Ndri was appointed as the Honorary Consul of Côte d’Ivoire in Dallas, Texas, in July 2015.

As the Honorary Consul, Dr. Ndri actively participates in conferences and events, expanding his network and establishing valuable connections with accomplished entrepreneurs, businesswomen, businessmen, and politicians. His multifaceted experiences and dedication to both the medical and business realms have shaped his career and influence in the Dallas community and beyond.

Brittany Bayless

Chief Risk Officer

Brittany Bayless is the Chief Risk Officer at Critical Minerals Refining Inc. Brittany has extensive experience in global political environments in various countries of Africa, the United States, and Mexico.  She is responsible for developing and implementing government affairs strategies to support CMR’s business objectives and manage risk. Brittany also represents CMR on various industry boards and committees.

Brittany served as a political risk advisor to several congressional offices and committees focused on Sub-Saharan Africa.

Brittany is responsible for developing and implementing government affairs strategies to support CMR’s business objectives and manage risk.  Brittany also represents CMR on various industry boards and committees.

Brittany has studied International Affairs and Political Science.  Brittany is responsible for developing and implementing government affairs strategies to support CMR’s business objectives and manage risk.

Mukula Makasa

CMR President, Africa

Mukula Makasa is a highly accomplished individual with a diverse background in both the private and public sectors. He is a Zambian national who holds a Master of Science Degree in Agriculture from the Agrarian University at Plovdiv, Bulgaria, and a Degree in International Development from Andrews University in Michigan, United States of America.

In the private sector, Mukula has gained valuable experience working at Hybrid Poultry Farm Zambia Limited, one of the largest poultry breeding ventures in Southern Africa. He has also managed Honda Farm Zambia Limited, a leading commercial egg-producing farm in Zambia.

Mukula’s international development experience comes from his time at International Development Enterprises, an international NGO based in Denver, Colorado, United States of America. He held various leadership positions within the organization, working in Zambia, other African countries, and the United Kingdom.

In the public sector, Mukula has worked at the Zambia Development Agency, where he served as the Director of Enterprise Development and eventually became the Director General or Chief Executive Officer. He has also held positions on important boards and committees, including the Investment Committee at the Securities Exchanges Commission (SEC) and the Investment Committee at Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH).

As the President of Critical Minerals Refining, Inc. Africa, Mukula’s strategic goal is to align non-conflict nations with Africa’s abundant resources. He aims to establish partnerships based on trust, transparency, and shared objectives, focusing on responsible sourcing, sustainable development, and ethical practices in the critical minerals industry.

Mukula is dedicated to steering Impact Investment in our target countries, leveraging his expertise and networks to drive positive change. He believes in partnering with local communities and advancing Inclusive Business models that ensure shared prosperity. By promoting economic growth, technological advancement, and job creation, Mukula envisions creating relationships that benefit investors and local communities. Additionally, he is committed to prioritizing environmental stewardship and community well-being, ensuring all stakeholders are included in the journey toward sustainable development.

Mukula Makasa is a visionary leader who combines his private sector experience, international development expertise, and public sector contributions to drive inclusive and sustainable growth. Through his work in Impact Investment and Inclusive Business, he aims to create partnerships that promote shared prosperity and responsible resource utilization in target countries.

Esther Wilmot, Esq.

General Legal Counsel

EDUCATION
South Texas College of Law Houston, Texas: Juris Doctorate, May 2020, Certified Texas Bar

Journal:
CURRENTS: Journal of International Economic Law, Project Editor, 2019-2020

Activities:

• • • International Law and National Security Society, Secretary, 2018-2019
    • Houston Young Lawyers Association, Member, 2017-2019
    • Houston Association of Women Attorneys, Member, 2018-2019
    • Student Body Association, Mentor, 2018-2020
    • Black Law Students Association, Member, 2017-2018
    • Women’s Law Society, Member, 2017-2019

Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas: Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, May 2017; Minor in General Business Studies

Honors:

• • • Dean’s List, 2017
    • Chancellor’s Leadership Program, 2013-2017
    • Outstanding Leadership Service to International Studies Award, 2015

Activities:

• • • VISA Corps Ambassador, Vice President & President, 2015-2017
    • Eta Iota Sigma Sorority, New Member Assistant & Faith Circle Leader, 2014-2015
    • Leaders for Life, Mentor, 2014-2016

Study Abroad:

TCU Political Science and Communications Program in Budapest, Prague, and Vienna, Summer 2014

LEGAL EXPERIENCE

Legal Research Analyst, Thomson Reuters
Contract Attorney, November 2021-Present

• Researched cases on Westlaw
• Prepared headnotes for production team
• Learned the process behind producing headnotes on Westlaw

District Clerk Intern at the Harris County Courthouse, Houston, Texas
Intern, May-June 2019

• Observed numerous cases such as a custody and murder case throughout the courthouse
• Networked with many judges and attorneys
• Discussed court procedures in application of legal knowledge
• Learned the influence of a clerk in the court

Mediation Clinic, South Texas College of Law Houston

Certified Mediator, August-December 2019

• Observed mediation cases at various Justice of the Peace Courts
• Participated in cases at the Justice of the Peace Courts and one case for Equal Employment Opportunities Commission (EEOC)
• Interviewed a mediator about their experience in mediation
• Learned the scheduling process of a mediation

Glory Infrastructure Inc., Houston, Texas
Intern, June 2018-August 2018

• Reviewed contracts such as distribution and arbitration agreements
• Discussed the structuring of other deals like trade agreements
• Learned the transactional lawyer process

PUBLICATIONS

Nachilala Nkombo

Chief Investment Officer

Nachilala Nkombo emerges as a distinguished figure in sustainability and innovation. She boasts an impressive track record of over two decades dedicated to spearheading conservation and sustainable development endeavors across diverse African markets. Her expansive expertise encompasses many critical areas, including environmental sustainability, sustainable agriculture, public health, energy initiatives, and the promotion of girls’ education.

With a keen focus on driving positive change and fostering sustainable practices, Nkombo has held influential positions that have left a lasting impact on policy development, financing mobilization, and environmental stewardship in Africa. Notably, her role as the Country Director for the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) in Zambia has allowed her to champion crucial conservation efforts and advocate for sustainable practices to protect the region’s natural ecosystems.

Additionally, as the Board Chairperson of Mulonga Water and Sanitation Company, Nachilala Nkombo has played a pivotal role in addressing water and sanitation challenges, ensuring access to clean water, and promoting sanitation practices that enhance public health and well-being. Her strategic leadership and collaborative approach have led to the implementation of innovative solutions that drive positive social and environmental impact in the communities served by the company.

Through her multifaceted engagements and impactful leadership, Nachilala Nkombo continues to be a driving force for sustainability and innovation in Africa. She has set a precedent for responsible stewardship of natural resources, community empowerment, and advancing sustainable development goals across the continent.

Jason Dial

Chief Logistics Officer

Mr. Jason Dial is a seasoned professional with over 31 years of experience in the Energy and Transportation sectors. His career began in 1992 when he established a railcar leasing company, following in the footsteps of his father’s railcar maintenance business. Jason co-founded a railcar management company with his brother to facilitate capacity trading between major utility companies and class 1 railroads.

In 2004, Jason, along with his partners, founded the highly successful Global One Transport Inc. The company, under Jason’s leadership, owns and operates a crude by rail terminal in Utah, a crucial link for Uinta basin oil producers to premium markets. Global One Transport also manages a short-line railroad that specializes in handling industrial products and chemicals. Furthermore, the company, guided by Jason’s strategic vision, is actively involved in coal reserves production and railcar business management.

Mr. Dial is a Director at Global One Transport Inc., a company he helped establish in 2004. He also serves as the CEO or Managing Member of several other notable companies, including Fort Worth Oil and Gas LP, a non-operated oil and gas investment firm, Crestline Corporation, a personal investments holding company, and Crestline Energy Partners LLC, an energy-focused opportunity investment company.

Mr. Dial attended Arlington Heights High School in Fort Worth, Texas, and later spent two years at Mesa Community College in Arizona before starting his professional journey.

Outside of his illustrious career, Jason cherishes a fulfilling personal life with his wife, Susanne Dial. The couple, a beacon of love and commitment, has been happily married for 23 years and resides in Fort Worth, Texas, with their three children: Sara (21), a Senior at the University of Texas; Ethan (21), a Senior at Texas Christian University; and Charlie (17), currently attending All Saints Episcopal School. This glimpse into Jason’s personal life underscores his values of family and balance, making him a relatable figure in the professional world.

David Mungole

South African Director of Operations

David Mungole is a seasoned professional renowned for his advanced operational skills and strategic acumen in engineering and business. With a successful track record spanning public and private roles, David’s leadership prowess and operational expertise have driven business growth and success.

Throughout his career, David has consistently demonstrated exceptional proficiency in managing complex operational processes, particularly in electrical engineering projects at Kafue Textiles. His meticulous oversight, effective resource coordination, and commitment to project delivery within specified timelines have earned him a reputation as a detail-oriented and results-driven operational leader.

As a co-founder of a prominent air conditioning and electrical contracting company, David’s operational dexterity was on full display. He spearheaded the development and execution of operational strategies that optimized efficiency and productivity and [specific impact on growth and market positioning]. His inspiring strategic vision and hands-on approach to operational management played a pivotal role in the company’s success.

David’s ventures into the commodity business and chrome mining are a testament to his willingness to take on new challenges and adeptness at making impactful operational decisions. His ability to navigate complex operational landscapes and [specific examples of identifying growth opportunities] speaks volumes about his operational acumen and business acuity.

With a keen focus on operational excellence and a commitment to driving sustainable growth, David Mungole continues to leverage his advanced operational skills to lead organizations towards success, innovation, and operational efficiency in the ever-evolving business environment.

Mwenya Mulenga

Vice President of Strategy

With over fifteen years of expertise in Business Administration, Corporate Strategy, and economic policy, this accomplished specialist brings a wealth of experience to the industry. Proficient in project planning and management, monitoring and evaluation, strategic planning and analysis, budgeting, business development, and trade and investment support. Their skills are instrumental in driving organizational success and growth.

Known for their track record of delivering exceptional results and spearheading strategic initiatives, this specialist excels in fostering business development and facilitating trade and investments. Their ability to provide quality project and budget management support ensures the efficient execution of projects and optimal financial planning within organizations.

As an effective team member with strong leadership capabilities, this specialist brings a unique personality and skill set, inspiring and guiding teams to achieve their objectives. Their dedication to excellence and proven track record of success make them a valuable asset in driving business growth, strategic planning, and operational efficiency within the industry.

Harry Mumba

Advisor to the Board and Executive Branch

Harry Mumba, a seasoned senior advisor with over 15 years of experience, brings a wealth of expertise to his role as the Senior Advisor to the Board of Directors and Executives at Critical Minerals Refining. In this capacity, Harry provides strategic guidance on governance, strategy, and operational excellence, leveraging his profound industry knowledge and strategic acumen to drive organizational success.

Known for his keen ability to identify improvement opportunities and translate them into tangible business outcomes, Harry’s strategic insights and foresight are instrumental in shaping innovative strategies that foster growth and resilience in dynamic business landscapes. His collaborative approach and diverse industry background enable him to excel in enhancing organizational performance, elevating shareholder value, and fostering a culture of effective communication and decision-making within the company.

Harry’s strategic counsel is pivotal in ensuring sustainable and impactful board decisions that align with the company’s long-term vision and goals. His dedication to driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement positions him as a trusted advisor, guiding Critical Minerals and refining towards sustainable growth and success in the critical minerals industry.