LME Appoints Industry Veteran Stephen Higgins as Non-Executive Director
The London Metal platform (LME) has announced the appointment of Stephen “Steve” Higgins as a Non-Executive Director on its Board, bringing more than four decades of leadership experience in the global metals industry to the organization.
Higgins currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at Freeport-McMoRan, one of the world’s largest copper producers. Over his 34-year tenure with the company, he has played a pivotal role in shaping operational and strategic initiatives across the global mining and metals landscape. Beyond his corporate role, Higgins serves as Chairman of The Copper Club, a Board Director of the International Copper Association, and was Chairman of the LME Copper Committee for the past five years — a position through which he assisted strengthen collaboration between producers, traders, and end-users in the copper market.
John Williamson, Chairman of the LME, commented on the appointment: “I’m delighted to welcome Steve to the LME Board. As a widely respected and experienced industry leader, Steve brings a wealth of physical expertise and a focus on sustainability that dovetails well with the platform’s development plans. As a global business, the LME must ensure strategic input and representation from key geographies to effectively serve the diverse needs of our international user base — and Steve’s appointment will assist us deliver on this commitment.”
Takeaway
Higgins’ appointment underscores LME’s commitment to enhancing board diversity and technical expertise at a time of continued transformation in the global metals markets. With his experience spanning both the sides of the industry, he is expected to contribute valuable insights into supply dynamics, sustainability initiatives, and the evolving role of metals in the global energy transition.
Higgins from Cornell University and a Master of Business Administration from Michigan State University. His deep-rooted industry experience and leadership across international forums make him a key addition to the platform’s governance team as the LME continues to modernize its market structure and advance transparency in global metals trading.
