JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, July 5, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd. (Implats) (JSE:IMP) (LSE:IPLA) (ADRs:IMPUY) (Pink Sheets:IMPUY) announces that Mr. Keith Rumble, Chief Executive Officer, will be leaving the Group as of 31 December, 2006, to pursue other interests. David Brown, currently Chief Financial Officer, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer with effect from 1 September, 2006, and will work with Keith from this date until the end of 2006 to ensure an orderly transfer of responsibilities.
Keith Rumble has been Chief Executive Officer since July 2001, and was instrumental in initiating programs that have resulted in significant improvement in the Health and Safety performance of the Group. In addition, under Keith's leadership, the Group has significantly grown its platinum production profile and resource base during the past 6 years and improved its relative competitive position in the platinum business.
David Brown, who has been with the Group since January 1999, has a proven track record and well established relationships within the industry.
Chairman of the Board, Dr. Fred Roux, said, "Keith provided the Group with strong leadership and was particularly successful in changing the culture towards safety in the Group. David has also demonstrated strong leadership and financial skills and will provide a smooth transition into a new era of leadership at Implats."