IGO names Vanessa Guthrie as incoming chair

The appointment forms part of the board renewal and succession process announced in June. The board unanimously endorsed Guthrie following an extensive search and due diligence process.

Guthrie is an experienced executive and director with more than 40 years in the resources sector, holding senior roles across mining and energy companies. She holds a PhD in geology and qualifications in environment, law, and business management.

She was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science from Curtin University in 2017 for her contribution to sustainability and policy leadership, and is an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the resources sector and as a role model for women in business.

Guthrie currently serves as a nonexecutive director of Santos, Lynas Rare Earths, and Orica and is Chancellor of Curtin University and Deputy Chair of Cricket Australia. She is also a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering, and the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.

“I am pleased to be joining IGO at this pivotal time in the company’s history,” Guthrie said. “IGO has a clear strategy and purpose and, as the company transitions from its current operating base to new opportunities, the board has an important role to play in providing leadership and guidance while maintaining high standards of governance.”

Nossal, who joined the IGO board five years ago, said the company had undergone an “exciting process of strategy refresh and transformation” under CEO Ivan Vella.

“It therefore feels like an appropriate time to renew and refresh the board, including a transition of the chair role,” he said. “Having announced the process in June, we were delighted to be able to attract a chair-elect of the quality of Dr Guthrie. She is a highly credentialed director and brings extensive experience and skills to the board.”