Mining conglomerate BHP has confirmed the appointment of ex-RBS chief Ross McEwan as chairman, succeeding Ken Mackenzie who is set to retire at the end of March.
As reported by Reuters, McEwan will be responsible for selecting the mining behemoth's next CEO and may revisit plans to acquire rival mining company Anglo American, following a failed £39bn offer in 2024, as reported by .
McEwan, who has been a non-executive director at BHP since April, brings over three decades of global experience, including leadership roles in financial services.
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His most recent role was as CEO of National Australia Bank, and he previously served as group CEO of the Royal Bank of Scotland.
He also holds directorships at defence technology firm QinetiQ and plumbing supplier Reece.
On accepting his new role at BHP, which exited the FTSE 100 four years ago, McEwan said: "I look forward to working with the board and management to continue driving long term value for shareholders."
BHP is now primarily listed in Australia, but also on the London Stock Exchange’s all-share index.
McEwan will take over from MacKenzie, who has been with the company since 2016 and served as chairman since 2017. "It is an honour to succeed Ken as chair of BHP."
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"Under his leadership, the company has become more agile and well-positioned for the future", stated McEwan.
During his tenure, he managed the company's consolidation into a single Australian listing, steered its recovery from the Samarco dam disaster, and led its expansion into Canada. Reflecting on his leadership, MacKenzie commented: "It has been a privilege to serve as the chair of BHP. I am proud of what we have achieved – building a simpler, more productive, and more resilient company. Ross is an excellent choice, and I wish him every success in the role."
This news comes alongside another significant move in the mining industry, with former HSBC CEO Noel Quinn joining the board of Fortescue.