Roderick Carnegie
Sir Roderick Carnegie | |
|---|---|
| Born | 27 November 1932 Melbourne, Australia |
| Died | 14 July 2024 (aged 91) |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, Business executive |
| Known for | Contributions to the coal sector, leadership at CRA Limited (Rio Tinto) |
Sir Roderick Howard Carnegie AC (27 November 1932 – 14 July 2024) was a distinguished Australian entrepreneur, notably recognized for his contributions within the coal sector.
Life and career
Carnegie, born in Melbourne, was the firstborn of Douglas and Margaret Carnegie. His education journey included Geelong Grammar School, Trinity College at the University of Melbourne where he earned a B.Sc. in 1954, followed by studies at Oxford University (M.A. and Diploma in Agricultural Economics, 1957), and Harvard University (M.B.A., 1959). During the late 1950s, he held the position of president for the Oxford University Boat Club.
Beginning his professional career in 1958, Carnegie joined McKinsey & Company in the United States and subsequently established their Australian branch in Melbourne by 1963. He advanced to become a Director based in New York by 1967. In 1972, he transitioned to CRA Limited (currently Rio Tinto) as finance director, later ascending to managing director and chairman roles from 1974 until 1986.
Following his tenure at CRA Limited, Carnegie served on several boards including the Australian Advisory Board of General Motors, CSIRO, the Business Council of Australia, and was a member of the Group of Thirty. He also led the Advisory Committee on Relations with Japan as its chairman.
In recognition of his industrial service, Carnegie was knighted during the Queen's Birthday Honours in 1978. He was further honored in 2003 as a Companion of the Order of Australia for his efforts in advancing innovative leadership and fostering competitive business practices both domestically and internationally. Additionally, he received a Centenary Medal acknowledging his impact on resource development.
Among his executive roles was chairmanship of Pacific Edge Group. Carnegie held a fellowship at Trinity College, Melbourne, acted as patron for the Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, and was affiliated with the Saltbush Club, an organization noted for its stance on climate change skepticism.
Sir Roderick Carnegie passed away on 14 July 2024 at the age of 91.
Honours and awards
| Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) | 9 June 2003 | |
| Knight Bachelor | 3 June 1978 | |
| Centenary Medal | 1 January 2001 |
Publications
- 1980 Sir Walter Murdoch Lecture – Reality, Risk, Relevance: A Choice Path for the Eighties (Murdoch University)