Minerals Council of Australia chief Mitch Hooke will step down at the end of this year after deciding not to renew his contract.
In a media statement, the MCA said its board had commenced succession planning following Hooke’s decision.
He has been CEO of the council since 2002.
“Mitch has had an enormous impact on the mining industry and the Australian public-policy landscape. He has been a tireless campaigner for the minerals sector during some of its most difficult periods,” the statement read.
“He has played a significant leadership role in the industry and has been an effective advocate in promoting the mining sector in the nation's interest.
“Ten years ago this industry charged Mitch with reforming the MCA. He has built a strong and highly regarded organisation with a very capable secretariat, an engaged membership and a reputation for policy integrity and credibility.
“The Board is delighted that Mitch has agreed to continue as a special adviser for 12 months after he steps down as CEO.”
Before joining the MCA, Hooke served as CEO of the Australian Food and Grocery Council for seven years, and prior to that was the executive director of the Grains Council of Australia.
Hooke is also internationally active in global policy advocacy and is currently a member of the Full Council of the International Council of Mining and Metals and its Executive Mining Group based in London.