BHP, the global mining giant, has announced a significant leadership change. Ross McEwan, former chief executive of Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and National Australia Bank (NAB), will succeed Ken MacKenzie as the new Chair of BHP, effective March 31, 2025.
This appointment marks a pivotal moment for BHP, as McEwan brings over 30 years of global executive experience to the role.
His expertise in financial services, capital allocation, and risk management is expected to be valuable in navigating the complex challenges facing the mining industry.
McEwan’s appointment follows a formal succession process led by BHP’s Senior Independent Director, Gary Goldberg.
The incoming Chair has been serving as an independent Non-executive Director of BHP since April 2024, providing him with insights into the company’s operations and culture.
Ken MacKenzie, who has been with BHP for nearly a decade, including eight years as Chair, will retire from the Board on March 31, 2025.
During his tenure, MacKenzie oversaw significant transformations, including the company’s strategic shift towards future-facing commodities and a focus on safety and disciplined capital management.
In accepting the role, McEwan expressed his commitment to generating long-term value for shareholders and continuing the company’s trajectory of simplification and agility.
He said: “I look forward to working with the board and management to continue driving long term value for shareholders.”
His appointment comes at a crucial time for BHP, as the mining sector faces increasing pressure to address environmental concerns and navigate global economic uncertainties.
McEwan’s leadership is expected to build upon BHP’s recent strategic decisions, including its unification into a single Australian listing and its entry into the Canadian market.
His experience in organisational transformation and focus on technology as a driver of change may also influence BHP’s future direction.
As BHP prepares for this transition, the mining industry will be watching closely to see how McEwan’s leadership will shape one of the world’s largest resource companies in an era of rapid technological advancement and increasing focus on sustainability.
