Former Rio Tinto iron ore chief executive Andrew Harding has officially taken over at Aurizon, replacing Lance Hockridge as the company’s chief executive.
Harding’s appointment was announced on September 2, and he was officially installed as the new leader of the Queensland rail operator on December 1.
Hockridge will formally retire later this month, after nine years as Aurizon’s chief executive.
Until June this year, Harding was the chief executive of iron ore at Rio Tinto, where he worked for more than 24 years.
Prior to his most role heading up the iron ore division of the mega miner, Harding held various executive management, operating and other roles within Rio.
“Aurizon has achieved good momentum to date with its transformation program,” Harding said.
“I am confident we can drive performance to the next level, creating further value for shareholders and our customers.”
Harding said Hockridge had made an outstanding contribution to the company, especially in its six years as a publicly listed entity.