Perth, Australia: IGO Limited has announced the appointment of Mr Ivan Vella as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director.

The selection of Mr Vella concludes an extensive global search and assessment process following the untimely passing of former CEO Peter Bradford in October 2022. The appointment highlights IGO’s commitment to securing top-tier talent to lead the company into the future.

Mr Ivan Vella brings with him a distinguished career in the mining and resources sector, boasting expertise in multiple commodities and diverse markets. With an impressive tenure of 20 years at Rio Tinto, he currently serves as the Chief Executive of Aluminium and is a member of the Rio Tinto Executive Committee. Notably, Mr Vella played a pivotal role in leading Rio Tinto’s Iron Ore business in Australia as the Interim CEO following the Juukan Gorge tragedy, where he spearheaded efforts to rebuild relationships with the Traditional Owners.

Having held various high-level positions, including Chief Operating Officer for Rio Tinto Coal and Oyu Tolgoi, Mr Vella’s experience encompasses strategy, operations, commercial affairs, and stakeholder engagement. Furthermore, he has actively advocated for sustainable and responsible business practices, emphasizing environmental stewardship, social impact, and governance. Mr Vella’s involvement in rebuilding relationships with the Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura people after the Juukan Gorge incident underscores his dedication to ethical conduct and community engagement.

IGO’s Chairman, Michael Nossal, expressed his delight with Mr Vella’s appointment, stating, “Ivan’s wealth of international experience, coupled with his strategic acumen and passion for responsible mining, makes him the ideal candidate to lead IGO through its next phase of transformation. His commitment to driving sustainable business practices aligns perfectly with IGO’s values, and we are confident that his vision and leadership will drive the company’s growth and success.”

In response to his appointment, Mr Vella conveyed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am thrilled and honored to join and lead the talented team at IGO during this pivotal moment in the company’s history. IGO’s purpose and values deeply resonate with me, and the company has positioned itself brilliantly to be at the forefront of the global transition to a green energy future. I am excited to contribute to the company’s development and work alongside the highly regarded individuals who have built IGO’s innovative and dynamic culture.”

Mr Vella is scheduled to assume his role as CEO of IGO no later than December 11, 2023, following his notice period and transition from Rio Tinto. He will be relocating from Montreal, Canada, to Perth, Australia, with his family. The company expressed gratitude to Matt Dusci, Acting CEO, for his commitment to maintaining value-driven leadership during the transition period.

With the appointment of Ivan Vella, IGO Limited looks forward to embarking on its next phase of growth under visionary leadership, leveraging its strong team and commitment to a sustainable future in the mining industry.