The Chamber of Minerals and Energy (CME) of Western Australia has announced the appointment of its new president.
Brandon Craig, who currently leads BHP’s iron ore operations in Western Australia, will succeed Fiona Hick, who has stepped down after serving in the role for two years.
Mr Craig was appointed Asset President, Western Australia Iron Ore in October 2020 and has successfully led its operations through a period of significant global challenges including COVID. His career with BHP extends more than 20 years, across various senior leadership roles including maintenance, marketing, human resources and operations management.
The appointment was made at CME’s 122nd Annual General Meeting, where Newmont Australia Regional Chief Financial Officer, Felicity Hughes, and DEVELOP’s Managing Director, Bill Beament, were reappointed as Vice Presidents.
“’I feel deeply honoured to lead the CME through such an exciting time for the resources sector here in Western Australia,” Mr Craig said.
“The Western Australia resources industry plays an important role in shaping both state and national economies, and makes a significant contribution through employment, royalties and continued support for regional communities.
“The CME is a highly valued member organisation and I look forward to working with the executive council, Rebecca, and the team as Western Australia maintains its vital place as a resources powerhouse.”
CME Chief Executive, Rebecca Tomkinson, welcomed Brandon to the role.
“I’ve been fortunate to get to know Brandon through his involvement with CME on our Advisory Board and Executive Committee, and he is an extremely experienced and knowledgeable leader who is passionate about the mining and resources sector,” Ms Tomkinson said.
“He takes on the presidency at a time of great opportunity for the sector, as we look to build on the strength of our gold industry, iron ore and oil and gas sectors while also facilitating the exponential growth of our emerging critical minerals sector that will be crucial to meet our decarbonisation goals.
“There are more than $57 billion worth of resources projects that are either committed or under construction across the state, while a further $87 billion are in the pipeline. The amount of economic opportunity this will create is extraordinary when you consider the hundreds of thousands of workers required and the flow-on benefit to local communities and businesses through local procurement.”
Ms Tomkinson paid tribute to Ms Hick, who was appointed CME President in April 2021 while serving as Woodside’s Executive Vice President Operations. Ms Hick commenced as Chief Executive Officer at Fortescue Metals Group in February 2023.
“Fiona’s wise counsel as resident over the past two years was invaluable to myself and CME staff and we are thankful for her contribution and leadership,” Ms Tomkinson said.
“She will continue to play a key role in the strategic direction of the organisation and will remain a member of our Advisory Board.”
Featured image: CME Chief Executive, Rebecca Tomkinson, with newly-appointed CME President, Brandon Craig. Image: CME.
