Megan Clark AC will join the Rio Tinto board as a non-executive director with effect from 20 November 2014, where she will join the nominations and sustainability committees, the company announced. 

Dr Clark comes to Rio Tinto from her last immediate posting as chief executive of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation where she has been since 2009.

"We are very pleased that Megan has accepted our invitation to join the Rio Tinto board,” said Rio Tinto chairman Jan du Plessis. “Megan not only has extensive mining experience, but is highly regarded and has, throughout her career, forged a strong reputation for driving a culture of innovation and technology, making her a great fit for Rio Tinto. Her appointment further reinforces the significance of Australia to Rio Tinto's global operations.”

Dr Clark has had an extensive career in both the private and public sector in Australia, combining expertise in the metals and mining business with high-level experience in science, research and technology.

 “Over many years I have come to know Rio Tinto very well, and it’s a great global company with an exciting strategic outlook,” Dr Clark said. “I am delighted to join the Rio Tinto board and look forward to working with the board and management team as Rio positions its business for the future.”

Dr Clark is currently a member of the Australian advisory board to the Bank of America Merrill Lynch. In 2014, she was appointed as a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to scientific research and development.