Marius Kloppers, Chief Executive Officer of BHP Billiton, has joined Grattan Institute’s Board of Directors from 24 February 2009.
Marius brings with him an extensive knowledge of the mining industry and BHP Billiton’s operations, having been internationally active in the mining and resources industry since 1993. He played a key role in the merger of BHP and Billiton and was appointed CEO on 1 October, 2007. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, he has a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical) from the University of Pretoria, a PhD from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a MBA from Insead, France. In his professional career he has previously worked for Gencor in South Africa, and with management consultants McKinsey & Co. in the Netherlands.
Marius’ appointment follows the commitment of BHP Billiton, the world’s largest diversified resources company, as a Founding Member of Grattan Institute, making a substantial contribution to its initial endowment.
Grattan Institute is a new national public policy institute being established in Melbourne. Its initial endowment by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments, the University of Melbourne, BHP Billiton and nab, and a strong board from diverse background ensure its independence. Its aims are to undertake research and analysis, and lead public debate, on key public issues for Australia as a liberal democracy in a globalised economy.