Anglo American has restructured its executive leadership team, aligning it with the recent simplification of its portfolio. This move follows the demerger of Valterra Platinum and the planned sales of its steelmaking coal and nickel businesses.
Duncan Wanblad, CEO of Anglo American, stated: “We have made rapid progress with our portfolio simplification and we are on track to complete the strategic re-shaping of Anglo American to focus on our world-class positions in copper, premium iron ore and crop nutrients.” He further explained that production businesses will now be consolidated under a Chief Operating Officer, a role to be filled by Ruben Fernandes starting July 1. Themba Mkhwanazi, currently Regional Director for Africa and Australia, will step down at the end of June after successfully overseeing the demerger of Valterra Platinum. Wanblad expressed gratitude for Mkhwanazi’s contributions over his 11-year tenure, highlighting his leadership across various divisions.
The new executive leadership team effective from July 1, 2025, includes Duncan Wanblad as Chief Executive Officer and John Heasley as Chief Financial Officer. Other key members are Ruben Fernandes (Chief Operating Officer), Richard Price (Chief Legal & Corporate Affairs Officer), Monique Carter (Chief People & Organisation Officer), Alison Atkinson (Chief Projects & Development Officer), Helena Nonka (Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer), Tom McCulley (Chief Technical Officer), Al Cook (CEO, De Beers Group), and Matt Walker (CEO, Marketing).
Al Cook will remain part of the executive team until De Beers’ separation from Anglo American progresses further. Tom McCulley retains responsibility for the Crop Nutrients business.
Nolitha Fakude continues her role as Chair of Anglo American in South Africa, reporting to Duncan Wanblad. She oversees the company’s business interests in South Africa and supports national priorities as well as regional investments.
The CEOs of Anglo American’s four production businesses—Ana Sanches in Brazil, Patricio Hidalgo in Chile, Mpumi Zikalala at Kumba Iron Ore, and Tony Power in Peru—will report to Ruben Fernandes. They will also engage in discussions within the executive leadership team to integrate their business contexts into decision-making processes.
