Talent inflow at Fortescue following exits

Fortescue Metals Group has appointed four new executives, including one from Vale and two for its green energy arm, days after two departures were revealed.

The state’s third biggest iron ore miner has picked Dino Otranto as its new chief operating officer iron ore.

He had previously held the chief operating officer role at Brazilian Vale’s base metals business in Canada.

It follows the departure of Greg Lilleyman as chief operating officer earlier this year.

Mr Otranto will commence in November, pending completion of quarantine requirements, and Fortescue said he would play a role in its development of a green energy business.

At the new Fortescue Future Industries business, Felicity Underhill was appointed director Australia – eastern states, and Gordon Cowe will be projects director.

Ms Underhill worked for 20 years in oil and gas, and has since served as a general manager of future fuels at Origin Energy working on hydrogen.

“She has a history of developing and delivering strategies across new industry development, major organisational transformation and innovation,” Fortescue said in a release.

“Felicity will bring the lessons learned in working in over twenty-five countries during her career with Shell as well as more recent experience in the establishment of the LNG industry in Queensland. 

“In particular, her style of moving quickly, creating strong relationships and high performing teams will be a key enabler for FFI’s green hydrogen ambitions in Australia.”

Mr Cowe had previously worked at Fortescue leading the company’s expansion to 155 million tonnes per annum of production capacity.

Warren Fish will take on the role of director of Aboriginal engagement, community, environment and government, starting in December.

Last week, it was revealed two senior executives had left Fortescue in recent weeks, reportedly because bonuses were capped in response to very high iron ore prices.

Fernando Pereira had been director of operations, while Rob Watson was group manager of health and safety.

Director of community, environment and government Tim Langmead has been serving out an extended notice period.

“I would like to thank Fernando Pereira and Rob Watson for their outstanding contributions to Fortescue,” chief executive Elizabeth Gaines said. 

“Their strong commitment to our culture and Values have helped to deliver our industry leading safety and operational performance in (financial year 2021), reflecting the efforts of the entire team.  

“Each has had long and successful careers at Fortescue and have built strong and talented teams across the business.  

“They leave with our best wishes for the future, and the search process for replacement of their roles is progressing.”