BHP Appoints Ross McEwan as Chairman Amid Leadership Transition
BHP, the world’s largest publicly listed mining company, has appointed former National Australia Bank (NAB) CEO Ross McEwan as its new chairman, succeeding Ken MacKenzie, who will step down on March 31.
McEwan, a non-executive director at BHP since April 2024, previously led NAB—Australia’s second-largest bank—and held the top position at the Royal Bank of Scotland.
Known for steering NAB through a post-scandal recovery with a simplification strategy, he is widely regarded as a strong leader in corporate governance.
In his new role, McEwan will oversee the selection of BHP’s next CEO, with Mike Henry entering his fifth year at the helm—a position that historically averages a six-year tenure.
Additionally, McEwan may face renewed discussions on whether to revisit BHP’s failed $49 billion bid for Anglo American.
Beyond BHP, McEwan currently serves as a director at defence technology firm QinetiQ Group and Australian plumbing supplier Reece.
MacKenzie leaves after nine years with BHP, including eight as chairman. His tenure saw BHP navigate the Samarco dam disaster recovery, consolidate into a single Australian listing, approve major investments in Canadian potash, and make significant strides toward gender equity in the workforce. He also oversaw the unsuccessful Anglo American takeover attempt.
“He’s done a really good job,” said Andy Forster of Argo Investments in Sydney. “He brought in operational discipline and focused on returns and capital allocation.”
MacKenzie’s departure could diminish the likelihood of BHP reviving its Anglo American acquisition, according to investors. While he stated at BHP’s annual general meeting on October 30 that the company had “moved on” from the deal, subsequent regulatory filings hinted otherwise.
