Episode 104 Jon Evans, CEO Lithium Americas

Jon Evans is one of the most effective and knowledgeable executives in the lithium world. He is also a great leader.

I have known Jon for well over a decade. First as my boss when I was running FMC Lithium’s Asia operations. When I left FMC and started Global Lithium, Jon was often a source of insightful advice. He remains a mentor to me despite being a Zodiac calendar younger than I am. Yes, you can still use a mentor in your 60s.

Among the topics we cover:

The status LAC’s projects in Argentina (Cauchari) and the US (Thacker Pass)

The positive aspects of Covid project delays

Why a US critical metals supply chain will develop despite many with a “not in my backyard” mindset

The high level of partnership interest in Thacker Pass and why Jon doesn’t want or need an offtake agreement

LAC’s strong balance sheet and the flexibility it brings

Building effective teams and how LAC hires

Risk mitigation

Global supply and demand

The developing “broader audience” for lithium

ESG

Dangerous assumptions

Why the industry will need to produce products beyond carbonate and hydroxide for the battery industry

Rapid fire