FEAR & GREED | Business News BHP and Woodside get new CEOs; PM: we’ll avoid recession; new petrol czar
Mar 18, 2026
Two major miners get new CEOs, with talk of copper and big LNG projects. Rising CEO turnover on the ASX and active investors shake up corporate leadership. Government plans a fuel czar to shore up supplies as Middle East disruptions wreak havoc on shipping. Diesel shortages and fertilizer risks threaten industries and farms.
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BHP Picks Insider To Lead Copper Push
- BHP appointed Brandon Craig as CEO to accelerate copper and potash growth after nearly 30 years inside the company.
- Craig's background includes running WA Iron Ore and Minerals Americas, signalling focus on copper expansion starting 1 July.
Woodside Elevates Operations Chief During Expansion
- Woodside confirmed Liz Westcott as permanent CEO to steer Scarborough and a Louisiana LNG project amid Middle East turmoil.
- Westcott was acting CEO and brings operational expertise as Scarborough ($16.5bn) nears commissioning late this year.
Why CEO Turnover Is Surging On The ASX
- CEOs are turning over as companies shift from post-COVID recovery to an AI-and-energy era needing different skills.
- Analysts link turnover to inflation, higher rates and active investors demanding performance and cost discipline.