Keynote speaker

Rowena Smith

Chief Executive Officer, Australian Strategic Materials

Presentation title

From mine to metals: Redefining critical mineral supply chains

Presentation synopsis

The globally shared ambition to create diverse, sustainable critical minerals supply chains continues to build momentum – but market headwinds still hinder swift progress.
 
As countries and jurisdictions seek to secure the materials identified on strategic critical minerals lists, growing importance is being placed on increasing production and enhancing processing capability. Integral to achieving this is the development of an international, partnership-led approach supported by aligned government policy.
 
With the globally significant Dubbo Project in development and critical metal production capability commissioned in South Korea, Australian Strategic Materials is positioning itself at the forefront of this evolving industry.

Biography

Rowena was appointed ASM Managing Director in March 2023 and had been Chief Executive Officer since July 2022.  Rowena joined ASM in July 2021 as Chief Operating Officer. She has over 30 years experience in the mining and minerals processing sector, including in a range of senior roles in strategy, operations and commercial. 

Prior to joining ASM, Rowena was Chief Sustainability Officer at South32, accountable for sustainability strategy, risk management and HSE business processes. Other past roles include Vice President Supply at South32, General Manager BHP’s Kwinana Nickel Refinery, and operational leadership roles within Rio Tinto’s aluminium smelting business.