Rio Tinto appoints Simon Trott to newly-created role of chief commercial officer

Rio Tinto has appointed Simon Trott to the newly-created role of chief commercial officer as it reinforces its focus on driving value across the business from mine to market.

Trott, who is currently the managing director of Rio’s salt, uranium and borates division, will start the role on 1 January 2018. He will ensure the company derives maximum value from its products and continues to strengthen customer relationships. Based in Singapore, he will be accountable for the sales & marketing, marine, commercial treasury, market analysis and procurement teams.

Chief executive Jean-Sebastien Jacques said: "Simon's appointment shows the importance Rio Tinto places in creating full value from mine to market. Commercial excellence is key to driving value outside the mine gate and fully complements our drive to unlock additional value through productivity improvements at our operations.

"I am delighted to welcome Simon to Rio Tinto's Executive Committee and know that he will bring real momentum to our commercial activities."

Trott has been with Rio Tinto for almost 18 years and has held a wide variety of commercial, operating and business development roles across a number of commodities. He currently oversees operations in Australia, Africa, Europe and the United States.