Graduating at the top of his class from the University of Wollongong in 1982, Mark Cutifani launched an industrial career that spans global mining operations and executive leadership. Over four decades, the Australian businessman has managed large-scale extraction projects, navigated corporate restructuring, and spearheaded sustainability initiatives across several international organizations, including Anglo American and Vale Base Metals.
Early Career and Education
Born in 1958 in Australia, Cutifani began his professional path at the Coal Cliff colliery after finishing high school in 1976. While working, he earned a degree in Mining Engineering, receiving the Atlas Copco Travelling Bursary for academic excellence. His early experience included roles at Kalgoorlie Gold Mines, Western Mining Corporation, Normandy Mining, and Sons of Gwalia, where he served as managing director beginning in March 2000. He later moved to the Canadian operations of Inco following its acquisition by Vale.
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Cutifani served as chief executive officer of AngloGold Ashanti from 2007 to 2013, where he removed the company's hedge book and implemented a safety campaign that halved the fatality rate. In 2013, he became the chief executive of Anglo American plc. During his nine-year tenure, he reduced total assets, improved unit costs by 45 percent, and oversaw an increase in annual shareholder returns to 22 percent. He also directed the company’s transition toward carbon neutrality and launched a 2018 sustainable mining plan.
Vale Base Metals and Advisory Roles
In 2023, Cutifani assumed the role of chairman for the newly formed Vale Base Metals subsidiary, a Toronto-based entity focused on nickel, copper, and cobalt. Beyond his executive duties, he holds multiple board positions, serving as a non-executive director of TotalEnergies and the Senior Independent Director at Laing O'Rourke. He is a founding member of the Hydrogen Council and remains active in various advisory roles, including the Development Partner Institute and the Power of Nutrition.
Fast facts
- Born: 1958
- Citizenship: Australia
- Education: University of Wollongong, 1982
- Appointed CBE: 2024
- Fellow, Royal Academy of Engineering: 2017
- CEO of Anglo American: 2013–2022
- Chair, Vale Base Metals: 2023–present
Questions readers ask
What is Mark Cutifani's primary professional background?
He is an Australian mining executive and engineer with decades of experience in the global metals and energy sectors.
Which major corporations has he led?
He previously served as CEO of Anglo American plc and AngloGold Ashanti, and currently serves as chairman of Vale Base Metals.
Achievements
- Educated at University of Wollongong
