Rio Tinto has appointed Jérôme Pécresse as its new chief executive officer (CEO) of its aluminium business, taking effect from October 23.
Pécresse will succeed Ivan Vella, who will begin serving as IGO’s CEO in December following the sudden passing of Peter Bradford in October 2022.
Pécresse has over 30 years of experience, which include acting in senior leadership positions in global companies in the mining and energy sectors.
He joined General Electric (GE) as CEO of renewable energy when the company completed its acquisition of Alstom’s power and grid businesses for €12.35 billion ($20.76 billion).
Prior to beginning his time at GE and Alstom in 2011, Pécresse spent 13 years in the mining and metals processing industry at Imerys in various roles before becoming its chief operating officer.
Rio Tinto CEO Jakob Stausholm said Pécresse will make a diverse contribution to the company during a critical time for the global mining industry.
“Jérôme brings a wealth of experience across renewable energy, mining, business development and strategy, ideal for shaping our industry leading aluminium business for a low carbon future,” Stausholm said.
Pécresse said Rio Tinto’s aluminium business has a key role to play in delivering its strategy, as well as supplying materials needed in a low carbon world.
“I am thrilled to be joining Rio Tinto to continue building a stronger and more sustainable global aluminium business with our team around the globe,” Pécresse said.