By Charles Pitts
The global mining industry in 2026 stands at a critical juncture, defined by a desperate race for supply and a radical shift in corporate strategy. As the demand for critical minerals is projected to quadruple by 2040, the responsibility for securing these resources falls on a select group of leaders navigating geopolitical volatility, ESG mandates, and rapid technological adoption.
This year’s Skillings Power List highlights the executives who have moved beyond rhetoric to deliver tangible results. From massive M&A maneuvers to the successful commissioning of generational projects like Simandou, these ten individuals are the primary architects of the minerals supply chain that underpins the global energy transition.
1. Jakob Stausholm – CEO, Rio Tinto
Jakob Stausholm has successfully steered Rio Tinto through a transformative period, prioritizing “sanity over vanity” in capital allocation while aggressively pursuing growth in transition metals. In 2026, Stausholm’s legacy is being cemented by the first production from the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea: the world’s largest untapped high-grade deposit.
Beyond iron ore, Stausholm has moved Rio Tinto deeper into the lithium space, integrating the Rincon project and exploring further acquisitions to close the supply gap. His focus on “culture and care” has also begun to repair the company’s ESG reputation, making Rio Tinto a preferred partner for host governments in sensitive jurisdictions.
2. Mike Henry – CEO, BHP
Under Mike Henry, BHP has completed its pivot toward “forward-facing” commodities. Following the successful integration of OZ Minerals, Henry has shifted the company’s focus toward organic growth and large-scale brownfield expansions.
His leadership in 2026 is defined by the massive expansion of the Escondida copper mine and the fast-tracking of the Jansen potash project in Canada. By positioning BHP as the world’s premier copper producer, Henry is addressing the copper deficit of 2026, ensuring the company remains the backbone of global electrification efforts.
3. Amanda Lacaze – CEO, Lynas Rare Earths
As the Western world seeks to decouple its critical mineral supply chains from China, Amanda Lacaze remains the most influential figure in the rare earths sector. In 2026, Lacaze has overseen the full optimization of the Kalgoorlie processing facility and the expansion of the Mt Weld mine.
Her strategic importance cannot be overstated; Lynas remains the only scale producer of separated rare earths outside of China. Lacaze’s ability to navigate the complex regulatory environments of Australia, Malaysia, and the United States has made her a key advisor to G7 governments seeking resource security.
4. Tim Gitzel – CEO, Cameco
The nuclear renaissance of the mid-2020s has placed Tim Gitzel at the center of the global energy stage. As CEO of Cameco, Gitzel has capitalized on the surging demand for uranium as nations embrace small modular reactors (SMRs) and life extensions for existing nuclear fleets.
Gitzel’s 2026 strategy has focused on the seamless integration of Westinghouse, transforming Cameco from a mere mining company into a vertically integrated nuclear fuel and services powerhouse. With uranium prices reaching decade-highs, Gitzel’s disciplined approach to production restarts has yielded record profits for shareholders.
5. Chen Jinghe – Chairman, Zijin Mining
Chen Jinghe continues to lead Zijin Mining’s aggressive global expansion, challenging the traditional hegemony of Western majors. In 2026, Zijin has emerged as a top-three global copper producer and a significant player in the lithium market.
Chen’s strategy is characterized by speed and high risk tolerance. From the Cukaru Peki mine in Serbia to the Kamoa-Kakula joint venture in the DRC, his ability to bring massive projects online ahead of schedule has reshaped the global supply landscape. Zijin’s move into the global battery revolution through lithium acquisitions in South America remains a focal point for market analysts.
6. Mark Chalmers – CEO, Energy Fuels
Mark Chalmers has successfully executed a “dual-track” strategy that has made Energy Fuels a critical component of the U.S. domestic supply chain. By leveraging the White Mesa Mill, Chalmers has created a hub for both uranium and rare earth element (REE) production.
In 2026, Energy Fuels is gaining recognition for its terbium breakthrough, positioning the company to provide the heavy rare earths necessary for high-performance magnets. Chalmers’ advocacy for domestic processing has made him a central figure in Washington D.C. policy circles.
7. Gary Nagle – CEO, Glencore
Gary Nagle has masterfully managed Glencore’s complex transition during 2026. While the company continues to harvest cash flows from its coal assets to fund its “managed decline” strategy, Nagle has simultaneously positioned Glencore as a leader in copper, nickel, and cobalt.
His 2026 moves include significant investments in recycling through the “circular economy” initiative and expanding the company’s marketing business to capitalize on price volatility in transition metals. Nagle’s pragmatic approach to ESG: balancing the world’s current energy needs with future requirements: remains a benchmark for the industry.
8. Oskar Lewnowski – Founder & CIO, Orion Resource Partners
Oskar Lewnowski represents the growing influence of private equity in the mining sector. As traditional bank lending for junior miners has tightened, Orion Resource Partners has stepped in to fill the void.
In 2026, Lewnowski has been the primary financier for a dozen mid-tier developments across the Americas and Australia. His ability to structure complex streaming and royalty deals has allowed projects that were previously stalled to reach production, effectively “de-risking” the supply chain for critical minerals.
9. Márcio Fontes – CEO, Vale Base Metals
Following the strategic separation of Vale’s base metals division, Márcio Fontes has taken the helm of one of the world’s largest nickel and copper portfolios. In 2026, Fontes is leading a $25 billion investment program to modernize Canadian nickel operations and expand Indonesian production.
By decoupling from the iron ore business, Fontes has allowed investors to gain pure-play exposure to the EV supply chain. His focus on low-carbon nickel production has secured long-term supply agreements with major automotive OEMs, setting a new standard for upstream-downstream partnerships.
10. Duncan Wanblad – CEO, Anglo American
After a period of intense restructuring and fending off takeover interest, Duncan Wanblad has emerged with a leaner, more focused Anglo American. His 2026 strategy centers on the Woodsmith polyhalite project and the Tier 1 copper assets at Quellaveco.
Wanblad’s commitment to “FutureSmart Mining” is driving technology adoption across the portfolio, from hydrogen-powered haul trucks to bulk ore sorting. His ability to maintain operational excellence while navigating the mining workforce challenges of 2026 has kept Anglo American at the forefront of the industry’s modernization.
Impact on Global Supply Chains
The executives on this list are not merely managing companies; they are managing the security of the global economy. The strategic moves made in 2026: particularly in the realm of rare earth mines: will determine which nations lead the clean energy era.
As we look toward the second half of the decade, the focus is shifting from simple extraction to “responsible sourcing.” The leaders identified here have demonstrated that they can balance the need for rapid growth with the increasing demands for environmental stewardship and social license.
