News
BHP · CEO · Copper · Critical Minerals
Global resources giant BHP has appointed Brandon Craig as its new CEO, effective July 1, succeeding Mike Henry after six years.
Craig, previously head of Americas operations, brings a strong focus on the US, Canada, and South America, regions critical for BHP's coveted copper and potash assets. This leadership change signals BHP's intensified strategic pivot towards "future-facing commodities" amidst rising demand for critical minerals driven by industrialization, electric vehicles, and AI data centers.
Copper demand is projected to surge 40% over the next 15 years, while potash demand is expected to increase 70% by 2050 due to global population growth and limited arable land. Craig's tenure as Americas president saw BHP become the world's largest copper producer and advance key growth options like the Jansen potash project in Canada, which is set to begin production in mid-2027 with estimated EBITDA margins of 63-64%.
This move underscores the industry's shift towards securing domestic supplies and navigating protectionist trends in the critical minerals sector.
