BlueScope chief executive Tania Archibald at the Port Kembla Steelworks. She’ll take over as the company’s CEO next year. Photo: Jen White.
The current leader of BlueScope Port Kembla will take over as the company’s managing director and CEO in early 2026.
Tania Archibald, chief executive of BlueScope’s Australian Steel Products business, will succeed Mark Vassella on 1 February 2026 when he retires.
Ms Archibald leads the company’s major operations in Australia including its key operations at Port Kembla and Western Port in Victoria.
“I’d like to thank the BlueScope board for their trust and confidence and to thank Mark for his tremendous leadership in building the strong company BlueScope is today,” she said after the announcement was revealed on the ASX on Wednesday (5 November).
“I’m proud to lead our talented teams into the next era and am committed to working hard for our customers, our people, our shareholders and our local communities.”
BlueScope chair Jane McAloon said Ms Archibald would be the fourth CEO since BlueScope listed on the ASX 23 years ago.
“Tania is a highly capable executive who has demonstrated outstanding leadership over the course of her 30-year career at BlueScope,” she said.
“She is passionate about the uplift of our safety performance and wellbeing of our people, and is committed to delivering for our customers.
“Her track record in driving sustainability, financial resilience and operational excellence gives the board great confidence in her ability to lead the group and deliver on the next phase of BlueScope’s strategy.”
Ms Archibald was previously BlueScope’s chief financial officer, and has also held leadership roles in finance, strategy and business development in the corporate function and across Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam and Indonesia.
Ms McAloon paid tribute to Mr Vassella and said he was an exceptional, values-based leader.
“He has navigated the group through unprecedented challenges while steadfastly prioritising our people and our communities,” she said.
“Under his stewardship, BlueScope has evolved into a structurally resilient business.
“Mark has led BlueScope with clarity and conviction, humility and warmth. By every measure he has been an outstanding CEO, and we thank him sincerely and wish him well in his retirement. He will be greatly missed.”
