Perth: Global mining giant Rio Tinto has announced the appointment of Simon Trott to lead its Diamonds business as part of a restructure of its Diamonds & Minerals product group, reports DIB Online. Trott replaces Jean-Marc Lieberherr who will be leaving Rio Tinto after ten years with Rio Tinto Diamonds, the past two and a half years of which he served as Managing Director of the company’s Diamonds business.

Commenting on the appointment, Diamond & Minerals Group Chief Executive Alan Davies says, “Simon brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role. There is no change to Rio Tinto’s commitment to the diamond industry, to our customers and to other industry partners who are instrumental to our current and future success.”

Trott has more than 18 years’ experience in the mining industry, and is currently Managing Director of Rio Tinto’s salt and uranium businesses, a position which he will continue to fill alongside the new appointment.

“I am delighted to lead Rio Tinto’s high-quality global Diamonds business and thank Jean-Marc for his contribution in setting up the business for future success,” says Trott. “The market fundamentals for diamonds are very positive and we are well placed to continue to deliver value to all our stakeholders.”