December 12, 2024: Lohum, the lithium recycling company, has appointed Arun Mittal as its new CEO, effective at the end of November.

Mittal, who was previously MD and CEO of Exide Energy, has nearly 30 years of leadership experience in the battery industry. At Exide, he led lithium-ion technology initiatives for e-mobility applications and expanded the company’s presence in southeast Asia.

Mittal stepped down from Exide Energy Solutions (EESL) on October 31. He has also ceased to be director of the company.

Mittal is a member of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICAI) and the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI).

Lohum has planned an investment of Rs1,000 crore ($118 million) to develop next-generation manganese-rich LMFP lithium-ion batteries over the next three years. Earlier in 2024, the company hired Tesla expert Chaitanya Sharma to lead the development of these advanced batteries.

Lohum says it has also signed several strategic agreements to accelerate growth, including an MoU with ReElement Technologies Corporation and American Metals to establish a battery recycling and repurposing facility. Additionally, the company signed an EV battery Futures contract with Stride Green and a black mass offtake agreement with UK-based Recyclus Group.

“I’m committed to driving Lohum’s vision of fostering material circularity and advancing energy sustainability through the next stage of its growth,” said Mittal. “Our goal is to lead the transition towards a more sustainable future by reclaiming critical minerals and minimizing our environmental footprint.”

Rajat Verma, CEO of Lohum Corporation, said, “Arun’s extensive background in the energy sector will be invaluable as we strive to enhance our position as a leader in sustainable battery materials. His strategic vision, operational excellence, and motivation for sustainability align perfectly with our goals of achieving zero waste and ensuring a responsible supply chain for critical minerals.”