Mr Kerr joined BHP in 1994 and held a wide range of operational and commercial roles across the business, including Chief Financial Officer Stainless Steel Materials, Vice President Finance Diamonds and Finance Director for the BHP Canadian Diamonds Company.

In 2004, Mr Kerr joined Iluka Resources Limited as General Manager Commercial. He returned to BHP in 2006, leading to his appointment as President of Diamonds and Specialty Products where he was accountable for the Ekati Diamond Mine in Canada, Richards Bay Minerals joint venture in South Africa, diamonds exploration in Angola, the Corridor Sands Project in Mozambique and the development of BHP’s potash portfolio in Canada.

Mr Kerr was appointed BHP’s Chief Financial Officer in 2011, a role which he held until 2015 when he left to lead South32 through its demerger from BHP and listing in three countries.

Mr Kerr is a Director of CEOs for Gender Equity, the Minerals Council of Australia and the Fremantle Football Club.

Mr Kerr’s strong track record in resource development, and global experience as a commercial and operational leader within the resource industry, means that he brings deep mining and metals expertise and exceptional financial acumen. His health and safety expertise, and passion for promoting diversity and inclusion, are valued contributions to our Board as it oversees our commitment to elevate our safety performance and instil a culture where everyone feels safe and respected at work. Mr Kerr’s strong focus on a purpose-driven and values-led future for South32 make him a trusted leader as we progress the next phase of our strategy.