Payne is also expected to be appointed president of the Fording Canadian Coal Trust following a period of transition.

 

Jim Popowich will continue as president of the trust during this transition in leadership.

 

Payne was most recently vice president, marketing for BHP Billiton in Singapore. Prior to joining BHPB, he was vice president, marketing for Fording Coal, whose metallurgical coal operations were acquired by Elk Valley Coal in 2003.

 

Payne holds a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from the University of Victoria and has also held several senior positions with Manalta Coal, including vice president, marketing and general manager of Gregg River Resources.