Elizabeth Gaines
Elizabeth Gaines is the Chief Executive Officer of Fortescue Metals Group, a global leader in the iron ore industry. With an impeccable record in financial and operational leadership across diverse industries, she has extensive experience in mining and resources, agribusiness, financial services, construction, infrastructure, real and intellectual property, travel and hospitality, media, and most recently, in digital business and models.
Elizabeth Gaines Professional Experience / Academic History
Professional Experience
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Chief Executive Officer
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Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director
Academic History
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Master of Applied Finance
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BComm in Accounting and Law
CAREER AT FORTESCUE METALS GROUP
- Gaines joined Fortescue Metals Group in 2013 as its first female board member, bringing management and board experience from the banking, construction, and travel sectors.
- She was named Chief Executive Officer in 2018, becoming the first woman to run a major Australian publicly listed mining company.
- She has reduced Fortescue's heavy borrowing costs through refinancing and debt repayment.
EXPERTISE
- Gaines has significant exposure to the impact of the growth in Asian economies, particularly China, on the Australian business environment and economy.
- She has a deep understanding of all aspects of financial and commercial management at a senior executive level in both listed and private companies, including merger and acquisition activities comprising due diligence, acquisition, disposals, merger integration, and cross-border funding.
CURRENT APPOINTMENTS
- Member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
- Member of Chief Executive Women
- Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
- 2019 Fortune Magazine Businessperson of the Year list (2nd)
- 2019 Honorary Doctorate of Commerce by Curtin University
- 2020 Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia's Women in Resources Champion