Rob Atkinson

Senior Operating Partner, Appian

Based in London, UK, Rob is reponsible for providing operational oversight with Appian's portfolio companies and advice with the analysis and evaluation of potential investments.

With over 30 years of mining industry experience, Rob has held a variety of roles leading operations and business improvement efforts in Australia, the UK and the US. His expertise spans multiple commodities, including coal (open cut and underground), iron ore, bauxite, uranium, copper and gold.

Between 2019 and 2024, Rob served as Executive Vice President and COO of Newmont, where he oversaw a global portfolio of twelve operational assets, one large joint venture, and functions including health, safety, security, exploration, and major project delivery.

Before that, Mr Atkinson served as Head of Productivity and Technical Support for Rio Tinto and was responsible for the company's $5 billion productivity improvement strategy. He also served as Chief Operating Officer for Rio Tinto's portfolio of copper interests in Mongolia (Oyu Tolgoi), the US, Chile (Escondida) and Indonesia (Grasberg).

Previously he led ASX-listed uranium miner Energy Resources of Australia as Chief Executive and Director, and served as General Manager of Weipa Bauxite, one of the worlds largest bauxite operations.

During his tenure with Rio Tinto, Mt Atkinson oversaw the establishment of three technical centres of excellence, including Surface Mining, Underground Mining and Processing.

He holds a 1st Class Honors Bachelor's degree in Mining and Petroleum Engineering from Strathclyde University in Scotland.

In 2025 Mr Atkinson was appointed to the Board of Directors at Finning.

Rob will be speaking at the Critical Minerals Forum during Australian Mining Week 2025.