Stew Hamilton steps down as Chief Executive of Tiwai Point Aluminium Smelter

Stew Hamilton has reportedly stepped down as Chief Executive and General Manager of the Tiwai Point Aluminium Smelter to join one of New Zealand’s big power companies. Stew Hamilton has been associated with Rio Tinto, the smelter’s majority owner, for the past 22 years. In 2018, he took over as chief executive of the Tiwai smelter.

"The smelter has been going through a very public period of transition, and Stew's commitment and leadership has been hugely valued throughout this time," said Rio Tinto acting managing director of Pacific operations Daniel van der Westhuizen.

The smelter was due to shut this year. But after entering a new power deal with suppliers, the smelter has been given a lifeline until at least 2024. Hamilton has had to face the pressure to tackle the disposal of toxic-waste by-products and clean-up of the smelter site when it shuts eventually.

Hamilton commented, "The last few years have been very challenging and I am proud of what the team has achieved over that time."

Mercury chief executive Vince Hawksworth said, “Hamilton's broad experience and commitment to workplace safety were key reasons for his appointment.”