Rio Tinto New Zealand Aluminium Smelters (NZAS) has appointed Michelle Henderson as its new General Manager at Tiwai.

Ms Henderson brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role, with a career spanning over two decades in senior executive positions at Rio Tinto where she held roles in engineering, asset management, and operations leadership.

She started her career at Tiwai as a graduate engineer, and progressed to shift crew leader and then superintendent, before working globally for Rio Tinto.

Ms Henderson was previously Chief Operating Officer at PowerNet, and since 2019 has held several governance roles, including as an independent director at Meridian Energy, South Port, and New Zealand Post and previously as a director of Fulton Hogan.

She is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Directors NZ and was recognised as Leader of the Year by the NZ Safeguard Business Leaders Health and Safety Forum in 2019, reflecting her strong commitment to safety and sustainability.

Based in Southland, Ms Henderson is deeply connected to the local community through her governance roles and volunteer work, including as a former trustee for Youthline Southland.

Commenting on her appointment Armando Torres, Managing Director, Rio Tinto Aluminium Pacific Operations, said: “Michelle’s deep operational experience, strong governance background, and connection to Southland make her an outstanding choice to lead NZAS, into its next phase, following the securing of the smelter’s future.

“Her appointment also reinforces Rio Tinto’s commitment to Southland and its people, ensuring the smelter continues to play a positive role in the region’s economy and community, including ensuring we meet all our environmental commitments.“

Ms Henderson stated: "I am really excited to return to Rio Tinto and Tiwai, and to be working with the great team at NZAS as we enter the next chapter for this iconic New Zealand business.

“Low carbon aluminium has never been more important globally, and Tiwai’s role in helping provide the metal the world needs for the energy transition, is something all New Zealanders can be proud of.”

Ms Henderson will take up her role on 28 January 2026. Matt Black will continue as acting General Manager until this time, which he has done since May this year.

Ms Henderson will resign her directorships of Meridian Energy and South Port before she takes up her role.