Perenti Limited has appointed Dr Vanessa Torres as its new Managing Director and CEO, succeeding Mark Norwell. With over 25 years of global mining leadership experience, Torres is set to lead Perenti into its next chapter of growth and diversification.
- Dr Vanessa Torres appointed as Perenti CEO, effective June 2026
- Torres brings 25+ years of global mining leadership experience
- Successor to Mark Norwell, who grew Perenti’s revenue fourfold
- Torres previously COO at South32 with extensive operational expertise
- Executive service agreement includes $1.25 million fixed remuneration
Leadership Transition at Perenti
Perenti Limited (ASX:PRN), a diversified mining services group headquartered in Perth, has announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of Dr Vanessa Torres as Managing Director and CEO. Dr Torres will officially take over the reins from Mark Norwell on 1 June 2026, following a carefully managed transition process that was communicated to shareholders last year.
Mark Norwell’s tenure since 2018 has been marked by impressive growth, with Perenti’s revenue increasing more than fourfold under his leadership. His focus on operational excellence and people development has set a strong foundation for the company’s future. Norwell will remain with Perenti through June and into the next financial year to support a smooth handover.
A Proven Leader with Global Mining Expertise
Dr Vanessa Torres brings a wealth of experience to Perenti, with over 25 years in senior leadership roles across four continents and multiple commodities. Most recently, she served as Chief Operating Officer at South32, overseeing major operations including Worsley Alumina and Australia Manganese. Her previous roles at South32 also included Chief Technology Officer and Chief Technical Officer, highlighting her blend of operational and technological expertise.
Before South32, Torres held senior executive positions at BHP for over a decade, managing production, logistics, and strategic investments. She also held leadership roles at Vale in both South and North America, contributing to major greenfield projects and business development initiatives. Her academic credentials include a Doctorate in Minerals Engineering and a strong focus on innovation, including research on artificial intelligence applications in mining.
Strategic Continuity and Growth Ambitions
The Perenti Board, led by Chair Diane Smith-Gander AO, conducted an extensive search to find a successor capable of building on the company’s recent successes. The appointment of Dr Torres reflects a commitment to sustaining Perenti’s diversified portfolio and driving long-term value for shareholders, clients, and communities.
Dr Torres expressed enthusiasm about joining Perenti at a pivotal time for the mining industry, emphasising collaboration with the Board and management to advance the company’s strategy. Her executive service agreement includes a total fixed remuneration of $1.25 million, with eligibility for short- and long-term incentive plans aligned to company performance.
Looking Ahead
As Perenti prepares for this leadership handover, investors and industry watchers will be keen to see how Dr Torres leverages her extensive operational and strategic experience to navigate evolving market conditions. The company’s focus on sustainable growth and innovation positions it well, but the new CEO’s approach to emerging challenges and opportunities will be closely observed.
Bottom Line?
Dr Vanessa Torres’s appointment signals a confident step forward for Perenti’s growth and diversification journey.
Questions in the middle?
- What strategic priorities will Dr Torres set in her first year as CEO?
- How will Perenti balance growth ambitions with operational risks in a volatile mining sector?
- Will there be changes to Perenti’s capital allocation or investment focus under new leadership?