The Canadian Institute of Mining Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) has appointed Lucy Potter incoming president-elect for 2028 and 2029.

Potter will assume the role of CIM president in May 2028, succeeding Randy Smallwood after his 2027 and 2028 term, and John Rhind after his 2026 and 2027 term.

In this role Potter will work closely with the president and president-elect to provide direction to CIM, ensuring it continues to be the leading member-based, not-for-profit technical institute for professionals within the Canadian minerals and metals industry.

Potter is currently a technical and sustainability GM for Rio Tinto's iron, titanium and diamonds division, where she supports technical assurance and enterprise risk to enable safe, sustainable production and strong commercial outcomes.

She brings to CIM more than 25 years' experience across the mining value chain, spanning exploration, mineral resource stewardship, operations, and technical governance. She has held senior leadership roles at Rio Tinto and Glencore, including as global head of geology and mineral resources.

"I look forward to collaborating with Potter to support the evolving needs of our members and stakeholders. Her passion for geology and technical excellence, along with her thoughtful leadership and deep understanding of natural resources will benefit CIM as we continue to advance the complex issues faced by the industry," says CIM former president and corporate director Candace MacGibbon.

Potter says she will join CIM at a time when the mining industry is balancing growing global demand with the need for responsible and sustainable development.

"I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to connect operational excellence with long-term value creation. I strongly believe in the role CIM plays as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, and I look forward to working with our members to strengthen connections across the value chain and support a resilient, forward-looking sector," she concludes.