Dear shareholders,
I am pleased to present the investment committee report, working to responsibly further the strategic objective of transitioning at speed and scale in support of Exxaro's purpose and vision, for the year ended 31 December 2022.
The committee:
The committee has an independent role in terms of which it operates and makes recommendations to the board, monitors on behalf of the board and reports to the board on material acquisition, merger/investment or disposal opportunities, and ongoing material transactions and related matters in the scope of the approved energy and minerals sustainable growth strategy, including ongoing portfolio management of these businesses, existing and post-investment reviews and management.
Isaac Mophatlane
Investment committee
chairperson
The committee's role is to review the strategic fit and risk appetite, and financial, technical and legal due diligences for major investments. It shall further ensure adherence to all Exxaro's governance processes at all times and that the approved hurdle rates, set from time to time, are met before any funds are committed. An investment opportunity will therefore first serve at the investment committee where a detailed review shall be conducted in line with the investment criteria approved by the board. After the review, the investment opportunity may be recommended by the committee to the board for final approval.
The committee's role expanded in 2022 to include consideration of Exxaro's capital allocation strategy.
Committee members are appointed by the board, on recommendation of the nomination committee, and ensure there is a balanced blend of skills and experience so that the committee is able to discharge its function.
For the year under review, the committee had five independent non-executive directors and two non-executive directors. The board is satisfied that the committee members have the necessary experience. The committee welcomed the appointment of Billy Mawasha as a member of the committee with effect from 7 February 2022.
The CEO, FD and managing director: minerals attend investment committee meetings as standing invitees. Other members of the executive team and senior managers representing areas relevant to investment committee discussions attend meetings as and when required.
Refer to board of directors for members' qualifications and experience.
Gender and racial diversity
The committee held three scheduled meetings during 2022 and five special meetings. The committee's satisfactory attendance illustrates high levels of engagement by committee members.
The following table provides an overview of designations and members' attendance at meetings during the period under review:
Members | Designation | Attendance at four quarterly meetings | Attendance at one special meeting |
Isaac Mophatlane | Independent non-executive director and chairperson | 3/3 | 5/5 |
Billy Mawasha | Independent non-executive director | 3/3 | 2/4* |
Isaac Malevu | Non-executive director | 2/3** | 2/5** |
Mandlesilo Msimang | Non-executive director | 3/3 | 5/5 |
Chanda Nxumalo | Independent non-executive director | 3/3 | 5/5 |
Vuyisa Nkonyeni | Independent non-executive director | 3/3 | 3/5 |
Peet Snyders | Independent non-executive director | 3/3 | 5/5 |
The committee's terms of reference were reviewed and are aligned with legislation, regulations and King IV. The committee is satisfied that it has conducted its affairs and discharged its responsibilities in accordance with its terms of reference.
The committee oversaw the following during the year under review:
The committee identified the following key focus areas for 2023: |
Continue to monitor and oversee divestments and acquisitions |
Review and recommend for approval investment guidelines for energy and minerals businesses |
Monitor the energy and minerals strategic KPIs and dashboard |
Review the discount policy and the weighted average cost of capital |
During the period under review, an independent evaluation of the performance and effectiveness of the board, its committees and specific individuals was conducted. The purpose was also to identify and record possible areas in need of strengthening and/or refinement while considering internal and external dynamics, and factors that may positively or negatively impact the board's ability to enhance its performance and effectiveness. From the evaluation report, an action plan was developed and its implementation will be monitored by the nomination committee.
The committee, in carrying out its duties, has due regard of its terms of reference and the principles and recommended practices of King IV. The committee is satisfied that it has considered and discharged its responsibilities.
The committee would like to thank management for all the hard work during the year under review.
On behalf of the investment committee
Isaac Mophatlane
Investment committee chairperson
14 April 2023