JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Mining giant Rio Tinto has appointed Ian Bauert as MD for its Chinese operations, with immediate effect.

Bauert, who will be based in Shanghai, will lead a 160-strong team.

Rio Tinto CEO Tom Albanese said on Friday that the new position filled by Bauert underlined the importance the company placed on enhancing its relationship with China.

“I am deeply committed to developing our relationship with China. Bauert’s experience and leadership will provide strategic direction and help guide all aspects of our engagement with China, one of our most important partners,” Albanese said.

Bauert reports to Doug Ritchie, who last year assumed direct responsibility for Rio Tinto’s activities in China, in addition to his role as CE for energy.

“This appointment recognises the importance of China as a long-term partner with our organisation and our intention to foster new and dynamic relationships as China's development continues,” said Ritchie.

Rio Tinto’s relationship with China came under strain last year, as its lead iron-ore negotiator, Stern Hu, and three other staff members from its Chinese offices were arrested. The four staff members remain in custody on allegations of obtaining Chinese steel industry commercial secrets, and on allegations of commercial bribery.

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