Mining giant Rio Tinto appointed a new Chief Operating Officer at its Bunder diamond project in Madhya Pradesh, India. Mr Tarun Malkani will take on the role beginning July 1.

Commenting on this new appointment, Mr Bruce Cox, Managing Director of Rio Tinto Diamonds said, “I am delighted that Tarun is joining the diamonds business in India at such a pivotal time in the development of the Bunder project. Tarun’s extensive experience in a number of diverse industries, both in established and emerging markets will be invaluable in identifying opportunities for advancing Rio Tinto’s diamond business in India.”

Mr Malkani, an engineer by training, will be joining the diamonds business as the Bunder project moves into the advanced stages of its prefeasibility study. He recently served as Director for Rio Tinto’s aluminium business in India. He has also served in Singapore, as the Global Marketing Head, for Solutia’s architectural business.

Mr Malkani mentioned that, “I am looking forward to working with the team at Bunder and building on our reputation in India as a valued partner across the whole diamond supply chain.”