JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Anglo American has appointed Ruben Fernandes CEO of its Brazil operations.

He succeeds Paulo Castellari, who resigned late last year to pursue other opportunities.

In addition to his current role as CEO of Anglo American’s Nickel and Niobium & Phosphates businesses, Fernandes will also lead the Iron Ore Brazil business with effect from June 20.

He will continue to report to Anglo American Base Metals & Minerals CEO Duncan Wanblad in respect of the Nickel and Niobium & Phosphates businesses, whose divestment processes are progressing, and to Bulk Commodities CEO Seamus French in relation to Iron Ore Brazil.

“We congratulate Ruben on his appointment to lead our Brazilian businesses. While we are currently progressing divestment processes for our Nickel and Niobium & Phosphates businesses, he is well placed to provide leadership across Anglo American’s interests in Brazil,” commented Wanblad.

Pedro Borrego, who has served as interim CEO of Iron Ore Brazil since November 2015 and was integral to the development and commissioning of the Minas-Rio operation, in Brazil, over many years, will assist Fernandes with the transition over the coming months, prior to taking up a new role based at Anglo American’s London headquarters.

“I thank Pedro for his enormous contribution to Minas-Rio throughout its development and initial ramp-up and for his leadership as interim CEO, delivering greater operational stability and further operating cost reductions.

“We welcome Ruben in what is a critical few years for Minas-Rio, in terms of both optimising the operation for the current iron-ore price and the operation’s ongoing licensing requirements. Securing the necessary licences that underpin the full ramp-up over time will ensure the long-term sustainability of Minas-Rio for all its stakeholders in Brazil and elsewhere,” said French.