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Rio Tinto | New Zealand Aluminium Smelters is pleased to announce the appointment of Michelle Henderson as its new general manager of New Zealand Aluminium Smelters (NZAS) at Tiwai.
Henderson brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role, with a career spanning more than two decades in senior executive positions at Rio Tinto where she held roles in engineering, asset management, and operations leadership. She started her career at Tiwai as a graduate engineer and progressed to shift crew leader and then superintendent, before working globally for Rio Tinto.
Henderson is a former chief operating officer at PowerNet and, since 2019, she has held a number of governance roles, including as an independent director at Meridian Energy, South Port, and New Zealand Post and previously as a director of Fulton Hogan. Henderson is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Directors NZ and was recognised as Leader of the Year by the NZ Safeguard Business Leaders Health and Safety Forum in 2019, reflecting her strong commitment to safety and sustainability.
Based in Southland, Henderson is deeply connected to the local community through her governance roles and volunteer work, including as a former trustee for Youthline Southland.
Commenting on her appointment, Rio Tinto Aluminium Pacific Operations managing director Armando Torres said: “Michelle’s deep operational experience, strong governance background, and connection to Southland make her an outstanding choice to lead NZAS into its next phase, following the securing of the smelter’s future. Her leadership will help us continue to provide value for our global customers, our team, our partners in Southland, and the local community.
“Her appointment also reinforces Rio Tinto’s commitment to Southland and its people, ensuring the smelter continues to play a positive role in the region’s economy and community, including ensuring we meet all our environmental commitments.
“I have appreciated the leadership and support of Matt Black who has acted in the general manager role since May.”
Commenting on her appointment, Michelle Henderson said: "I am really excited to return to Rio Tinto and Tiwai, and to be working with the great team at NZAS as we enter the next chapter for this iconic New Zealand business. The smelter plays a vital role in Southland’s economy, and I look forward to connecting with our many partners and stakeholders in Southland and New Zealand.”
Henderson will take up her role on January 28, 2026. Black will continue as acting general manager until that time.
Henderson will resign her directorships of Meridian Energy and South Port before she takes up her role.
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