BHP Billiton has today announced changes in BHP Billiton management.

Tom Schutte has been appointed President, Manganese, effective from 1 August 2010.  Mr Schutte’s appointment follows the announcement on 1 June 2010 that current President, Manganese, Peter Beaven has been appointed President, Base Metals. Mr Beaven’s new role takes effect from 1 November 2010 and is based in Chile.

BHP Billiton's President, Non Ferrous, Andrew Mackenzie welcomed Mr Beaven to the Base Metals business.  "Peter's wide experiences across a range of regions and businesses will be of great value to the leadership of Base Metals,” said Mr Mackenzie.

Mr Schutte is currently President, Marketing, a position he has held since December 2005. During his tenure as President, Marketing, he was responsible for driving the development of the BHP Billiton Marketing Model which is today a unique and key differentiator for the company.  He was previously Chief Financial Officer Commercial, Marketing Director Manganese, Commercial and Development Manager with Samancor and held various other roles.

BHP Billiton Chief Executive Ferrous and Coal, Marcus Randolph, said, "Tom’s history across marketing and operational areas within the Group will be invaluable in his new position leading the Manganese business. I am delighted to have Tom on the team."

Mr Schutte will be replaced by Mike Henry who has been appointed President, Marketing, effective 1 July 2010.  Mr Henry is currently the Marketing Director for Petroleum and Freight.