Diversified miner Vale has appointed Emily Olson as the chief sustainability and corporate affairs officer of its energy transition metals business, Vale Base Metals, with effect from April 24.

Olson will play a pivotal role in positioning the standalone base metals business as a premiere global transition metals platform, Vale said in a statement.

"We are thrilled to have Emily join Vale at this exciting juncture," said Deshnee Naidoo, executive VP of Vale's energy transition metals unit.

"She has a proven track record with deep industrial and resource experience and a demonstrated ability to build relationships, with a strong personal commitment to the role of business in promoting sustainable development. I am confident she will make an immediate contribution as we accelerate our transformation."

Previously, Olson was VP for global strategic relations with Freeport-McMoRan, responsible for driving global strategic initiatives inclusive of governments, partners and various external organisations, and integrating global advocacy and communications strategy while supporting non-technical risks across key project developments.

Before that, Olson was senior VP for Europe and Russia at BP, where she led execution of the company's sustainability strategy, from renewables to new ventures and partnerships, and helped shape strategy on climate policy.

"I am incredibly pleased to be joining the base metals team at such a critical moment for the energy transition, the mining industry, and for Vale," Olson said. "Now more than ever, the mining industry has an essential role to play in helping the world decarbonize sustainably and responsibly. For me, it is imperative we continue our work to build trust and strong partnerships with stakeholders, governments and the communities where we operate. Vale is positioned with excellent assets, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to sustainability and creating long-term value."

Vale's energy transition metals business produces nickel, copper and cobalt. It is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.