Mining giant BHP has appointed Brandon Craig as its next Chief Executive Officer, the company announced on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
Craig, a mechanical engineer originally from South Africa, will assume leadership of the world’s largest copper producer on July 1, 2026. The appointment comes as demand for copper – a critical metal for renewable energy infrastructure – continues to rise.
“His rigor and focus will continue to drive BHP’s high-performance culture,” the company stated in a press release.
Craig has been with BHP for over 25 years and currently leads the company’s operations across the Americas. He succeeds Mike Henry, who oversaw BHP’s expansion in the copper sector.
BHP has significantly increased its copper production over the past four years, growing output by approximately 30%, largely due to its extensive Escondida mine in Chile. The company now asserts its position as the world’s largest copper producer.
BHP’s commitment to responsibly produced resources is central to its strategy, as outlined on its corporate website BHP. The company’s Charter, established in 1999, guides its purpose, strategy and values.
With a market capitalization that makes it the world’s largest mining company, BHP operates in more than 90 locations globally and employs over 90,000 people and contractors, according to BHP’s About page. The company reported a total economic contribution of US$49.2 billion in FY2024.
BHP is too developing one of the world’s largest potash mines, with first production from Jansen Stage 1 expected in late calendar year 2026, followed by a two-year ramp-up period. Career opportunities at BHP are available in over 90 global locations, ranging from experienced mining positions to apprenticeships, as detailed on the BHP Careers page.
