Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) today announced the introduction of a strengthened governance structure with the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer and a new Chairman of the Board of Directors.
These appointments mark the formal separation of the CEO and Chairman roles. Together with a new Executive Committee and enhanced Board leadership, these changes underscore LAR’s commitment to strong corporate governance as the company enters a critical phase of operational expansion.
Nicholas Fournier has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. A French national, Nicholas brings over 20 years of global experience in strategic management, operations, and business development. He holds a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Université Technologique de Compiègne, France, and has held senior roles at ADIT – GEOS Group, G4S – Allied Universal, KS Drilling, and Transocean.
The role of Chairman of the Board of Directors is now held by Alexandre Canas, who has served on the board since its inception. Alexandre has over 25 years of experience in strategic leadership, financial management, and business development across international markets, including Brazil, the Netherlands, Mozambique, the UK, and Angola, where he currently serves as Trafigura’s Country Manager.
Commenting on his appointment, Nicholas Fournier said: “I am honoured to take on this role at Lobito Atlantic Railway, a company with exceptional potential to transform transport and trade across Angola and the region. We are proud to operate a transport corridor that is open to all customers and already delivering significant benefits to mining companies in the Democratic Republic of Congo that produce critical metals. Together with my management team, we will focus on further optimising the railway’s efficiency and capacity, while expanding the Minerals Terminal operations at the Port of Lobito.”
Alexandre Canas added: “I am honoured to step into the role of Chairman at such a pivotal moment in the company’s journey. I look forward to supporting the executive team, ensuring the company is well-equipped to meet its ambitious objectives and building partnerships that support long-term growth and sustainable development in the region."
LAR’s enhanced governance structure will help ensure clear delineation of leadership responsibilities and more effective strategic positioning, while supporting LAR’s mission to build essential transport infrastructure for Angola’s economic development and regional integration.
LAR’s Board of Directors is now comprised of:
- Alexandre Canas, Chairman
- Manuel Mota, Vice-Chairman
- Julien Rolland
- Roberto Ferreira
- Dmitry Miller
- António Graça
- Eric Peiffer
- Tiago Ferraria
- Ottoniel Manuel
In addition to the CEO, LAR’s new Executive Committee includes the following members, appointed by the shareholders:
- Nicolas Gregoir, Chief Operations Officer
- Domingos Castelão Silva, Chief Financial Officer
- Nuno Chaves Frota, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer
