Rio Tinto makes China appointment

Production and Markets

Rio Tinto has expressed a commitment to enhance relations with China by appointing a managing director in the country.
Company stalwart Ian Bauert will immediately take on the new role.

Mr Bauert will be based in Shanghai and will lead Rio Tinto’s 160-strong team of employees in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, the company said in a statement today.

Involved in the establishment of Rio Tinto’s first office in China more than 25 years ago, My Bauert speaks fluent Mandarin and has held several senior positions with the company.

Chief executive officer Tom Albanese said the new role underlines the importance Rio Tinto places on enhancing its relationship with China.

“I am deeply committed to developing our relationship with China. Ian’s experience and leadership will provide strategic direction and help guide all aspects of our engagement with China, one of our most important partners,” Mr Albanese said.

Mr Bauert reports to Doug Ritchie, who last year assumed direct responsibility for Rio Tinto’s activities in China, in addition to his role as chief executive, energy.

“The appointment recognises the importance of China as a long-term partner with our organisation and our intention to foster new and dynamic relationships as China’s development continues,” Mr Ritchie said.

The appointment comes after a year in which relations between China and the company were strained by the arrest of four employees.