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 the Chief Administrative Officer of Critical Minerals Refining, Inc., where he leads the company’s administrative strategy, corporate communications, and organizational infrastructure. He ensures that CMR’s growing ecosystem of executive leadership, global partners, and technical teams operates with alignment, clarity, and consistent direction across all major initiatives.

With more than twenty years of experience across technology, cybersecurity, consumer electronics, industrial development, non-profit leadership, and global risk-mitigation, David has built systems that help organizations scale with discipline and purpose. His background includes major brand architectures, international development campaigns, enterprise-level communication frameworks, and cross-functional organizational design. He has supported companies in both emerging ventures and mature corporate environments, giving him a wide-angle perspective on how to build structures that support long-term growth.

David’s expertise lies in transforming complexity into coherent, repeatable systems. He develops the administrative processes, communication frameworks, and executive alignment mechanisms that ensure strategy is clearly understood, consistently communicated, and effectively implemented throughout the organization. His work strengthens CMR’s internal cohesion and enhances the company’s ability to communicate its mission to governments, investors, engineering partners, and international collaborators.

At CMR, David is responsible for administrative governance, executive communications, enterprise coordination, and the organizational systems that support the company’s global expansion. He plays a central role in shaping how CMR communicates its vision, structures its internal operations, and aligns its teams around strategic priorities.

Known for his systems-driven approach and cross-sector leadership experience, David builds administrative foundations that enable efficiency, unity, and long-range execution. His work supports CMR’s ability to grow responsively, maintain clarity across complex initiatives, and present a consistent, credible narrative as a leader in the critical-minerals industry.

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.

Muhammad Raza Khokhar (MRK)

Senior Advisor, CMR
President, Royal Business Club

Muhammad Raza Khokhar (MRK) is an accomplished global leader whose career spans government, international diplomacy, advanced technology, and multinational business development. With more than three decades of experience across parliamentary leadership, international economic networking, financial strategy, and enterprise expansion, he is widely regarded as a distinguished expert in political, business, and financial networking across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

MRK currently serves as Senior Advisor to Critical Minerals Refining, Inc. (CMR), where he leverages his international government relations expertise, strategic investment insights, and global partnerships to support CMR’s mission to advance sustainable mineral processing and secure global critical-mineral supply chains. His advisory leadership strengthens CMR’s engagement with governments, private investors, and commercial partners across diverse geopolitical environments.

In addition to his role with CMR, MRK is the President of the Royal Business Club, a global organization operating in over 72 countries dedicated to international business networking, trade facilitation, and high-level political and commercial engagement. Under his leadership, the Club has expanded its footprint worldwide, becoming a respected platform for multinational collaboration and strategic diplomacy.

Government & Diplomatic Leadership

MRK began his career in public service after joining his family’s business interests in agriculture and land development. In 1996, he was appointed to the National Assembly (Federal Parliament) of Pakistan, where he served until 2004 in several high-impact leadership roles. His positions included:

• Secretary, Standing Committee on Railways

• Secretary, Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs

• Secretary, Standing Committee on Finance

• Secretary, Standing Committee on Special Education & Women Development

• Secretary, Public Accounts Committee

• Representative of Pakistan at the United Nations (Women’s Development, 2005)

Throughout his parliamentary career, he played a central role in shaping policies related to national infrastructure, foreign diplomacy, economic development, and social welfare—experience that continues to inform his global advisory work today.

Global Business Leadership

After his government career, MRK transitioned into international business, founding MRK Pty Ltd in Australia (2005–2012), where he led operations in farming, retail, and commercial services. His entrepreneurial success propelled him into broader multinational leadership roles, including:

• President – Royal Business Club (2016–Present)

• President – Royal Imperial Gold Refinery, UAE (2022–Present)

• Group CEO – Marvellex Group of Companies (2021–Present)

• President – Royal Imperial Holding (Thailand)

• President – Royal Imperial Money Transfer & Exchange (Vanuatu)

• President – Gold and Win Group (Thailand)

• President – Royal Imperial Resort & Casino (Vanuatu)

His portfolio of active business operations spans networking, consultancy, e-commerce, gold trading, and manufacturing, with strategic influence across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Australia, and Europe.

MRK is also the Chief Advisor to His Highness Sheikh Saoud bin Faisal Al Qassimi (2010–Present), Chairman of the Royal Business Club, and maintains close partnerships with leading political, financial, and industrial figures in the UAE and beyond.

Education & Professional Capabilities

MRK’s academic achievements reflect his multidisciplinary expertise:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA – Marketing & Business Development)

• Law Graduate

• Bachelor of Science

His multilingual capabilities—English, Urdu, Arabic, and Persian—further enhance his ability to operate at the highest levels of international business and diplomacy.

Professional Recognition

Known for his exceptional ability to build bridges between governments, investors, and global enterprises, MRK is recognized as one of the region’s most influential voices in international business diplomacy, financial networking, and investment facilitation. His career embodies integrity, strategic foresight, and a lifelong commitment to advancing economic cooperation worldwide.

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.

Mike Bobo

General Counsel

Mike Bobo serves as Legal Counsel for Critical Minerals Refining, bringing decades of litigation, regulatory, and courtroom experience to the organization. A graduate of Texas A&M University (B.S., 1994) and Vermont Law School (J.D., 1998), Bobo is admitted to practice before all Texas state courts, the Texas Supreme Court, the Supreme Court of the United States, the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Fifth and Third Circuits, and numerous federal district courts across the country. Bobo is a member of the State Bar of Texas, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Southern Trial Lawyers Association, Tarrant County Bar Association, and the American Association for Justice, and holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the organization’s highest distinction for legal ability, ethics, and professional excellence.

A ninth-generation Texan, Bobo’s family history traces back to one of the earliest settlers who arrived in Texas in 1835 and helped shape the young Republic. An ancestor served in the Army of the Republic of Texas and helped operate one of the famed Twin Sisters cannons at the Battle of San Jacinto, later serving in the first legislature of the State of Texas. Raised in Lubbock, Bobo brings that same spirit of grit, resilience, and determination to the practice of law—focused on delivering results, standing firm against injustice, and advocating relentlessly for clients and partners. Bobo and his wife, Tracie, have been married since 1996 and have two children, Grace and Jackson. Outside the office, Bobo enjoys cooking, golf, fishing, hunting, and following the Texas A&M Aggies, while spending time with the family’s German Shepherds—Gunner, Max, and Titan.

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.