The Weir Group announces that Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan and Ben Magara will join the Board as non-executive directors with effect from 19 January 2021.

Both Srinivasan, who is popularly known as Venkat, and Ben have extensive experience leading global mining businesses. Venkat has previously served as CEO of both Vedanta Resources plc, the diversified global natural resources company, and AngloGold Ashanti Limited, one of the world’s largest gold producers. Ben served as CEO of Lonmin plc, the then third largest global platinum producer, having previously held a number of senior mining executive roles for Anglo American plc.

Charles Berry, Weir Group Chairman said:

“I look forward to welcoming both Venkat and Ben to the Board. They bring a wealth of highly relevant experience to Weir as we transform into a focused, premium mining technology business. In addition to their extensive and diverse industry knowledge, Venkat and Ben also share a passion for innovative engineering and its vital role in making mining operations more sustainable and efficient.”

Venkat served as CEO of Vedanta Resources plc from 2018-2020 and was CEO of AngloGold Ashanti Limited between 2013-2018, having previously been Chief Financial Officer of the business from 2005. His earlier career was as an accountant and restructuring specialist with Deloitte & Touche in India and the UK.

Ben served as CEO of Lonmin plc from 2013-2019. He was Executive Vice President of Engineering & Projects for Anglo Platinum from 2009-2013, having previously served as CEO of Anglo Coal. Ben started his career as a graduate with Anglo American plc after completing his mining engineering degree at the University of Zimbabwe.