The Illawarra’s MPs acknowledge the statement today from BlueScope appointing Tania Archibald as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer following the retirement of Mark Vassella.
During his 8-year tenure as CEO and Managing Director, Mr Vassella has guided the company through a transformational period with integrity and a determination to redefine BlueScope’s role in our community.
Mr Vassella’s leadership has embedded sustainability practices into Australia’s biggest steelmaker. This has seen BlueScope achieve a 14 per cent reduction in emissions intensity, surpassing it’s 2030 goal, and embark on a new decarbonisation project that has the potential to launch our country’s green steelmaking future.
In addition, Mr Vassella has been instrumental in the cultural shift inside BlueScope for diversity and inclusion, with a 25 per cent increase in female workforce participation and advancement of women in leadership inside the company.
The $1.15 billion relining of the Number 6 Blast Furnace is absolutely vital to the continued effective operation of steelmaking in the Illawarra, securing local jobs over the long term and improving the environmental outcomes for local operations. Illawarra MPs acknowledge Mr Vassella’s critical role in advancing this major project, supported by $136.8 million in Australian Government funding.
His legacy will also live on in one of the largest land transformation projects in the world, transforming 200 hectares of surplus industrial land into a multi-industrial precinct that will create new industries, thousands of local jobs, and position Port Kembla on the world stage of innovation.
All Illawarra MPs send our thanks to Mr Vassella for his passion and commitment to our community and wish him well in the future.
We also congratulate Ms Tania Archibald on her appointment as new Managing Director and CEO, acknowledging her long career within BlueScope.
Illawarra MPs have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Ms Archibald as Chief Executive of BlueScope’s Australian Steel Products and we recognise her ongoing commitment to Steelmaking in Port Kembla.
We are confident that Ms Archibald will be another visionary leader for the company as it continues to navigate the opportunities of our energy transition and a range of global challenges.
BlueScope’s impact on the region cannot be understated, as the Illawarra’s biggest employer, and a key player in Australia’s critical manufacturing industry. The Illawarra is fortunate to experience effective and capable leadership from individuals that value our community and the continued importance of Australian steelmaking in a clean energy future.
We look forward to working closely with Ms Archibald on these major projects and more, with the view of cohesion and a continued community-focus to ensure the best outcomes for the Illawarra and the broader Australian community.
