Rio Tinto has launched a company-wide operating model overhaul aimed at simplifying its structure and aligning leadership with long-term growth priorities.
The new framework consolidates the business into three core product groups – iron ore, aluminium and lithium, and copper – with changes taking effect immediately.
The restructure, according to Rio Tinto, is intended to strengthen operational discipline, improve accountability and sharpen the company’s focus on assets with the strongest potential to deliver returns.
Chief Executive Simon Trott said the adjustments reflect a clear shift towards operational excellence and capital efficiency.
Under the new model, Matthew Holcz will lead the expanded iron ore business, which now brings together the company’s established Western Australian operations with assets in Canada and the Simandou development in Guinea. Rio Tinto said the combined group will benefit from shared expertise, technology, and safety practices across geographies.
The aluminium and lithium division will be led by Jérôme Pécresse and will group Rio Tinto’s Atlantic and Pacific aluminium operations with its lithium assets. The company expects this alignment to support integrated processing capability and extend productivity programs that have already improved aluminium performance.
Copper remains a dedicated product group under Katie Jackson. Her team will continue to advance key developments, including the Oyu Tolgoi ramp-up, Kennecott stabilisation, and project pipelines in the US and Chile.
As part of a broader portfolio review, borates and iron and titanium have been moved under the Chief Commercial Officer for further evaluation. These units will continue to operate “safely and profitably” in the interim.
The changes coincide with several senior leadership transitions, including the Chief Executive Australia position being phased out, with Kellie Parker remaining during a transition period before responsibilities shift to a new head of Australia.
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