About the role
This role leads the Communities and Social Performance (CSP) function across Rio Tinto Iron Ore (RTIO), with a focus on building and maintaining a strong social licence in the broader communities. You will coach and support a high-performing team to drive CSP performance across operational assets, deliver strategic initiatives, and foster trusted relationships with , local communities, and key stakeholders.
With a focus on responsible engagement, , and long-term value creation, you’ll play a central role in shaping how RTIO operates within and alongside the communities where it works.
Reporting to the General Manager HSEC you will;
Lead the execution of RTIO’s annual CSP plan, ensuring alignment with divisional strategies and Rio Tinto Group programs.
Support operational teams in improving CSP performance through coaching, leadership, and strategic direction.
Develop and maintain deep knowledge of community dynamics to support risk mitigation, opportunity identification, and value creation.
Build strong, trust-based relationships with Traditional Owners, community leaders, government representatives, and other key stakeholders.
Manage and resolve complex social performance issues, ensuring alignment with legal, policy, and company standards.
Oversee the implementation of social investment programs, focusing on long-term outcomes and partnerships that deliver shared value.
Monitor, report, and drive improvements across key CSP performance measures, including Local Voices results, SIMPs, and grievance management.
Promote cross-functional collaboration and continuous improvement to support sustainable operations and protect RTIO’s social licence to operate.
You’ll Bring
Strong leadership capabilities with experience in leading, developing, and supporting diverse teams
Tertiary qualifications in social sciences, community development, or a related discipline
Over 10 years of experience in Communities and Social Performance or a closely related field
Extensive background in social performance, stakeholder engagement, community relations, or regional economic development
Proven ability to build and maintain positive, trust-based relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a people-centred and inclusive approach
Ability to navigate complex environments and influence outcomes that support both community and business objectives
A strong commitment to sustainable development, cultural sensitivity, and shared value creation
#gts
About Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is a leading global mining and materials company. We operate in 35 countries where we produce iron ore, copper, aluminium, critical minerals, and other materials needed for the global energy transition and for people, communities, and nations to thrive.
We have been mining for 150 years and operate with knowledge built up across generations and continents. Our purpose is finding better ways to provide the materials the world needs – striving for innovation and continuous improvement to produce materials with low emissions and to the right environmental, social and governance standards. But we can’t do it on our own, so we’re focused on creating partnerships to solve problems, create win-win situations and meet opportunities.
Every Voice Matters
At Rio Tinto, we particularly welcome and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, the LGBTI+ community, mature workers, people with disabilities and people from different cultural backgrounds.
We are committed to an inclusive environment where people feel comfortable to be themselves. We want our people to feel that all voices are heard, all cultures respected and that a variety of perspectives are not only welcome – they are essential to our success. We treat each other fairly and with dignity regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, age, sexual orientation or anything else that makes us different.
