Rio Tinto recently announced the appointment of two new non-executive directors, Martina Merz and Sharon Thorne. Both will join the Board of Directors on different dates, with Merz on February 1, 2024 and Thorne on July 1, 2024. Both will stand for election at the company’s annual general meetings in different years: Merz in 2024 and Thorne in 2025.
The first appointment is that of German Martina Merz, who has extensive experience in operations and leadership, most notably as CEO of the industrial engineering and steel production company ThyssenKrupp. Previously, he held important positions in companies such as Robert Bosch GMBH and Chassis Brakes International. In addition, he has an extensive track record in listed companies and currently serves on the boards of AB Volvo and Siemens AG. He has also served on the boards of Imerys SA, SAF Holland SE, Deutsche Lufthansa AG, Thyssenkrupp AG and Bekaert SA.
Sharon Thorne, from the UK, is the second new addition to Rio Tinto’s Board of Directors. She has been working as a public accountant in Deloitte for 36 years. She also held various executive positions and served on the board of directors, becoming deputy CEO of Deloitte North West Europe in 2017 and global president since 2019. It will be retired at the end of November 2023. Thorne has also served on the boards of the Confederation of British Industry, Prostate Cancer UK and the Social Progress Imperative.
Rio Tinto CEO Dominic Barton commented that Martina has a great track record of leading companies through cyclical situations, adapting to the energy transition and working on initiatives to reduce carbon emissions. In addition, her board experience as a non-executive director makes her a valuable addition to the Rio Tinto team.
Sharon joined the Board of Directors with a strong background in the professional services field, having served as President of the world’s largest professional services company. With his extensive leadership experience and deep industry knowledge gained over more than 30 years, he is a valuable addition to the team. The company is very excited to have Sharon as part of its management team.
Martina Merz also expressed her excitement at joining Rio Tinto at an exciting time for the company. She sees real possibilities that can be leveraged and looks forward to working with the Board to achieve its long-term goals.
Sharon Thorne added: “I look forward to contributing to Rio Tinto’s continued transformation as the company positions itself to thrive in a decarbonized world. I am excited about the work ahead with my fellow Board members to help shape a strong future.”
