Global mining giant Rio Tinto today named Jan du Plessis as its new chairman.
Plessis would replace the company's current chairman Paul Skinner, who retires on April 20, a statement from Rio Tinto said.
"...Plessis will be appointed as chairman of the boards with effect from the conclusion of the annual general meeting of Rio Tinto on April 20, 2009," the company said.
While commenting Plessis said, "...Our immediate focus must be on giving Rio Tinto the best possible platform to create shareholder value and to weather the tough and uncertain global economic conditions."
Plessis, who joined Rio Tinto board as the non-executive director in September 2008, will continue to be chairman of the board of British American Tobacco Plc, a role he has held since 2004.