Rio Tinto iron ore chief executive officer (CEO) Simon Trott has been chosen to succeed Jakob Stausholm as the company’s CEO from August 25.
Trott first joined Rio Tinto in 2012, serving as managing director of the company’s salt, uranium, borates and diamonds for five years.
Trott was then promoted to chief commercial officer (CCO) in 2018, where he established the company’s commercial operations and helped unlock efficiency and strengthen customer relationships.
Since 2021, Trott has been Rio Tinto’s iron ore CEO. In this role, Trott has bolstered the company’s iron ore business by improving operational performance, facilitating new mine developments, and refreshing partnerships with key stakeholders.
As Rio Tinto’s CEO, Trott will utilise his 25-plus years of experience across various commodities and geographies to maintain partnerships with key stakeholders and a values-based performance culture.
“It is a privilege to have the opportunity to lead Rio Tinto, and I am excited about our future,” Trott said.
“The progress we have made over recent years gives us a foundation to build on with discipline and focus to deliver improved performance. With our outstanding assets and people around the world, we are well positioned to grow value for shareholders and the communities who host us.”
Current Rio Tinto CEO Jakob Stausholm will step down from his role and the company’s board of directors once Trott assumes his new position.
“It has been an absolute privilege to lead Rio Tinto for nearly five years, during an important chapter in its history,” Stausholm said.
“Working together, our brilliant people across the Group have built genuine momentum, setting out a pathway to a decade of profitable growth.
“As the chief executive (officer) of our largest business during this time Simon has been an integral part of the journey; I am certain that under his leadership the Group will continue to thrive and deliver value for its stakeholders.”
Rio Tinto managing director Pilbara Mines Matt Holcz will provide interim support in the iron ore CEO position until a permanent appointment has been elected.