AAP
Rio Tinto Ltd looks to be trying to patch up its rocky relationship with Chinese authorities, appointing a new managing director of operations in the country.
Ian Bauert has been named as managing director, China. He will take the reins of Rio's operations there immediately.
Mr Bauert's new role indicates a shift by Rio Tinto to focus more on its relations in China.
The previous manager who held the position was also head of Rio's entire Asian division.
Mr Bauert will be based in Shanghai, leading Rio Tinto's 160-strong team in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, the company said.
The fluent Mandarin speaker established the company's first office in China more than 25 years ago, Rio Tinto said.
Rio chief executive officer Tom Albanese he was "deeply committed" to developing his company's relations with China.
"Ian's experience and leadership will provide strategic direction and help guide all aspects of our engagement with China, one of our most important partners," Mr Albanese said.
In recent times, Rio Tinto has had a difficult relationship with China, following the arrest of four employees, including Australian Stern Hu.
