Bennetor (Ben) Magara has been appointed CEO of Exxaro Resources, effective April 1, 2025. With over 35 years of mining experience, he aims to leverage Exxaro’s coal foundation to expand into low-carbon minerals. His leadership is expected to stabilize and guide the company’s growth and sustainability efforts, with backing from the Board.
Bennetor (Ben) Magara has been appointed as the new CEO of Exxaro Resources Limited, effective April 1, 2025, succeeding Riaan Koppeschaar, who will remain as finance director. Magara expressed enthusiasm for leading Exxaro, emphasizing the company’s strong coal foundation and commitment to expanding into low-carbon minerals essential for future sustainability. This aligns with Exxaro’s diversification strategy, which aims to balance profitability with social and environmental considerations.
With over 35 years in the mining sector, Magara has extensive experience in both soft and hard-rock mining. He has held significant leadership roles, including at Anglo American Coal and overseeing the restructuring of Lonmin Plc, which led to its acquisition by Sibanye Stillwater. Additionally, he founded the Africa Mining & Metals Group in 2020, specializing in battery and precious metals.
Exxaro’s chairman, Geoffrey Qhena, highlighted Magara’s exceptional leadership qualities and his wealth of global experience in governance. Qhena expressed confidence in Magara’s capability to stabilize and further develop Exxaro’s growth and sustainability initiatives. He emphasized that Magara’s diverse background will positively impact Exxaro’s strategic transition to diversify minerals and renewable energy solutions.
Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, Exxaro’s lead independent director, noted Magara’s respected reputation and people-centric leadership style, stating that his appointment received unanimous support from the Board. In gratitude for the contributions of acting CEO Koppeschaar, Qhena recognized his professionalism and pivotal role during the transition period, confirming his return to the finance director role thereafter.
The appointment of Bennetor Magara as CEO of Exxaro Resources signifies a strategic shift towards diversification and sustainability. His extensive experience in mining operations and leadership positions prepares him to enhance stakeholder value while maintaining the company’s commitment to environmental and social responsibilities. The Board’s unanimous support underscores confidence in his capabilities to navigate the company through its evolving market landscape.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
