Rio Tinto's chairman to step down in latest shakeup following Indigenous cave destruction - CNN

Thompson said in his statement Wednesday that the company has engaged with investors, the government and Indigenous communities to learn from the demolition of the caves.

It has also taken action to "address the weakness" in its risk management and governance, including appointing Stausholm, who Thompson said "has moved swiftly to appoint his new executive team and has identified his key priorities to rebuild the trust that we have lost."

The board said it has accepted Thompson's decision and will search for a successor.

Shares in Rio Tinto (RIO) rose 1.8% in Sydney on Wednesday.