What Could New Rio Tinto CEO Mean For EV Critical Minerals?

Rio Tinto confirms Simon Trott, currently leading its Iron Ore division, will take over as Chief Executive from 25 August 2025.

The announcement comes as the company prepares for a new chapter shaped by the demand for materials critical to EVs, renewable energy and low-carbon technologies.

Simon’s appointment follows Jakob Stausholm’s decision to step down after nearly five years in the top job, a period defined by cultural reform and a shift in corporate strategy.

Simon's track record

Simon brings more than 25 years of mining industry experience, including extensive exposure to commodities that are increasingly central to electrification and decarbonisation agendas.

While his most recent role is Chief Executive of Iron Ore, Simon has worked across multiple commodities and international markets.

He previously served as the Group’s first Chief Commercial Officer, where he was responsible for creating Rio Tinto’s global commercial operations.

This included building strategic ties with customers and strengthening the Group’s commercial infrastructure, all of which play into the evolving demands of battery-grade materials and EV supply chains.

“I’m incredibly proud to be named as the next Chief Executive of Rio Tinto, from 25 August 2025,” Simon wrote on LinkedIn.

“It's a privilege to have the opportunity to lead this great company and I am excited about our future.

“With our outstanding assets and people around the world, we have so much value to unlock for both our shareholders and the communities who host us - as we find better ways to provide the materials the world needs.” 

As head of Iron Ore, Simon is credited with reshaping operations, boosting performance and safety, and building long-term stakeholder trust, key themes for a company aiming to supply responsibly sourced materials essential for EV batteries, charging infrastructure and green technology.

“Simon is an outstanding leader with a deep understanding of mining and a track record of delivering operational excellence and creating value across our business,” says Dominic Barton, Chair of the Board.

“Simon and the Board are aligned that Rio Tinto’s next phase is about unlocking significant value for shareholders from our portfolio, driven by operational performance and cost and financial discipline.”

Transitioning from growth strategy to execution

Simon’s appointment follows a structured two-year succession planning strategy led by Rio Tinto’s Nominations Committee, chaired by Dominic. Internal and external candidates were considered.

The committee ultimately selected Simon for his operational discipline and proven leadership, both seen as critical to converting strategy into delivery across Rio Tinto’s portfolio, especially in areas such as lithium, copper and aluminium, which are vital to EV manufacturing.

Simon’s leadership at Iron Ore saw the division become a testing ground for innovation in operational systems, technology and model optimisation.

“Under his leadership, Iron Ore has become a centre of innovation for the Group, driving operational excellence, technology and operating model optimisation – levers Simon can now bring to Rio Tinto at scale,” comments Dominic.

Jakob led Rio Tinto through a complex period of cultural renewal and strategic repositioning.

“It has been an absolute privilege to lead Rio Tinto for nearly five years, during an important chapter in its history. Working together, our brilliant people across the Group have built genuine momentum, setting out a pathway to a decade of profitable growth," explains Jakob.

“As the Chief Executive of our largest business during this time Simon has been an integral part of the journey; I am certain that under his leadership the Group will continue to thrive and deliver value for its stakeholders.”

A focus on stakeholder value and low-carbon growth

Simon will take the reins during a critical period, as Rio Tinto deepens its focus on materials tied to low-carbon transitions.

These include copper for EV wiring and grids, lithium for batteries and aluminium for lightweight vehicle frames.

In his statement, Simon highlights the need to build on the Group’s progress through engagement and execution.

“The progress we have made over recent years gives us a foundation to build on with discipline and focus to deliver improved performance," says Simon.

“With our outstanding assets and people around the world, we are well positioned to grow value for shareholders and the communities who host us.”

Simon adds: “I want to personally thank Jakob for his leadership and guidance; I have greatly enjoyed working with him.

"As we move forward at pace, I will be listening closely to our shareholders, customers, employees, communities and other stakeholders to shape our next chapter together.”

While Simon prepares to transition into the role, Rio Tinto has appointed Matt Holcz, currently Managing Director of Pilbara Mines, as interim Chief Executive of the Iron Ore division.

The formal search for a permanent replacement is ongoing.

Simon’s appointment comes as Rio Tinto attempts to align its core portfolio with global clean energy supply chains.

With major automotive manufacturers and battery makers under pressure to secure ethical and reliable sources of minerals, Rio Tinto's leadership change positions it to influence the EV landscape from mine to market.