OREANDA-NEWS. On August 15, 2008 OJSC MMC Norilsk Nickel (hereinafter – MMC Norilsk Nickel or the Company) announced that it has engaged Mr. Adrian Coates as its Senior Adviser on the development of its corporate strategy, reported the press-centre of Norilsk Nickel.

Mr. Coates has an extensive and long-standing experience in the global metals and mining industry. Until June, 2008, Mr. Coates was Global Sector Head, Resources and Energy at HSBC Bank plc.

During his over 20-year career in Banking and Finance, Mr. Coates was involved in a variety of corporate finance transactions in the resources industry worldwide. His landmark deals include the IPO of Billiton (the deal that restarted the London mining market), the IPO of Vedanta, adviser to Mittal Steel on the acquisition of Arcelor (the largest ever steel deal), adviser to Corus on its acquisition by Tata Steel and adviser to BHP Billiton on its offer for Rio Tinto (the largest ever mining deal).

Mr. Coates will assist with the development of the Company’s corporate strategy, including the consideration of possible, transformational, transactions worldwide. He will assist with the presentation of the strategy, internally and externally. Mr. Coates will advise on the implementation of the strategy, including working with the Company on potential merger and acquisition opportunities.

The Management of MMC Norilsk Nickel considers this appointment as a first step in reestablishing the corporate strategy and business development team.

The new team will include international and domestic professionals with a proven track record. The team’s objectives are to develop the Company’s long-term strategy and global positioning, and to promote and integrate its operations worldwide.