Rio Tinto PLC (LON:RIO) appointed the Western Australian Government’s former Treasurer and Aboriginal Affairs Minister, Ben Wyatt, as the company’s new non-executive director.
“With family links to the Pilbara and an impressive track record in public life, Ben's knowledge of public policy, finance, international trade and Indigenous affairs will significantly add to the depth of knowledge on the board at a time when we are seeking to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders in Australia and around the world," said Rio chairman Simon Thompson.
Wyatt, meanwhile, added: “I was deeply saddened and disappointed by the events at Juukan Gorge but I am convinced that Rio Tinto is committed to changing its approach to cultural heritage issues and restoring its reputation, particularly in Australia and Western Australia.
“I am looking forward to working with the board in building on the momentum for change generated by the new leadership team."
Rio has been under intense scrutiny in Western Australia after it destroyed the Juukan rockshelters in the Pilbara region.
It damaged a longstanding relationship with the Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura People - the Tradional Owners of the 46,000-year-old caves.
Earlier this year, in March, Simon Thompson announced he would step down at the company’s 2022 AGM in the wake of the controversy.