Chile's state-owned copper producer Codelco has named Jorge Gómez as its new chief executive officer, tapping one of the country's most experienced mining executives to lead the company through a critical period of operational and growth challenges.

The appointment follows the resignation of current CEO Rubén Alvarado Vigar, who has led the company since September 2023. Alvarado will remain in the role until July 13, when Gómez formally assumes leadership.

Codelco Chairman Bernardo Fontaine described Gómez as one of Chile's most respected mining executives, citing his operational expertise, leadership capabilities, and commitment to creating sustainable value for workers, communities, and shareholders.

According to Fontaine, Gómez's priorities will include improving workplace safety, boosting profitability and returns to the Chilean state, strengthening operational discipline, and advancing environmental and social sustainability goals.

Gómez arrives at Codelco after spending 14 years as CEO of Minera Doña Inés de Collahuasi, one of the world's largest copper mines. During his tenure, Collahuasi significantly improved operational performance, safety metrics, and value creation, helping establish the operation as one of the mining industry's leading assets.

His appointment also marks a return to Codelco. Earlier in his career, Gómez served as the company's Vice President of Central-Southern Operations, overseeing the Andina, El Teniente, Ventanas, and Salvador divisions. He also held senior leadership roles at Antofagasta Minerals and Los Pelambres, two of Chile's most prominent mining operations.

The leadership change comes as Codelco seeks to reverse production declines and advance a portfolio of major structural projects designed to extend the life of its aging mines. The company has been investing heavily in projects across its key operations, including El Teniente, Chuquicamata, and Andina, while facing rising costs and execution challenges common across the global mining sector.

Beyond his operational experience, Gómez has played a prominent role in Chile's mining industry. He served as president of the Consejo Minero, the country's principal mining industry association, from 2018 to 2022 and was a board member of mining trade group Sonami. In 2025, he was recognized as Chile's Executive of the Year by EY Chile and El Mercurio.

The appointment places a seasoned industry veteran at the helm of the world's largest copper producer as demand for the metal continues to be supported by electrification, renewable energy deployment, and growing data center infrastructure requirements worldwide.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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