The miner opted for Trott and his experience running its most profitable operations as the company seeks to strengthen its growing business.

Rio Tinto has named Simon Trott as chief executive following the surprise exit of Jakob Stausholm, tasking the company veteran with steering the mining group during a period of global consolidation across the industry.

Rio Tinto Group has named the head of its iron ore unit Simon Trott as its new chief executive officer, replacing the outgoing Jakob Stausholm.