BHP’s incoming CEO Craig tweaks leadership team before start

BHP Group’s incoming Chief Executive Officer Brandon Craig has announced changes to the company’s leadership team before he officially assumes the role on July 1.

President of Americas — Craig’s former role — will be split in two, with Jessica Farrell, a former head of the company’s nickel business, leading North American operations from July 1. The region is key to the company’s growth ambitions at its Jansen potash project and Resolution copper development.

Farrell will also be in charge of South America, where the company’s biggest copper growth projects are located, until a suitable candidate is found.

“The new appointments will support BHP’s progress in strategy, operating performance, growth and our differentiated approach to social value creation,” Craig said in a statement Friday.

Chief Operating Officer Edgar Basto will become chief enterprise performance officer from September 1, with his role expanded to include strengthening contractor safety.

Other executives, including President of Australia Geraldine Slattery — who was seen as one of Craig’s closest rivals for the CEO role — remain in their current positions or with expanded roles.

That includes Chief Financial Officer Vandita Pant and Chief Commercial Officer Rag Udd, according to the statement. Chief Development Officer Catherine Raw will also remain, according to a spokesperson.

The tweaks to BHP’s executive leadership team are Craig’s first major announcement since being named CEO-elect to replace outgoing Mike Henry in March.

Henry reshaped the company into a simpler, more manageable organisation by selling off oil and gas operations and divesting non-core assets.

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