Current president health, safety, environment, marketing and technology Dean Dalla Valle will become chief commercial officer, assuming responsibility for potash from August 1.

The company said since Dalla Valle’s portfolio included group project management, potash was a strategic fit.

The move gives him responsibility for the Jansen potash project in Saskatchewan, which BHP is banking on becoming its “fifth pillar”

Dalla Valle will retain his existing areas of health, safety, environment, marketing, supply and informational technology.

Tim Cutt was formerly president petroleum and potash, but is becoming president petroleum, focusing exclusively on that business.

“These portfolio changes recognise the depth of skill and ongoing contribution of both Dean and Tim to BHP Billiton,” Mackenzie said.

He also made two changes to job titles within the group management committee.

BHP president, human resources Athalie Williams will become chief people officer and president, corporate affairs Tony Cudmore will be chief public affairs officer, effective tomorrow.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our GMC members for their ongoing leadership and contribution to BHP Billiton,” Mackenzie said.

There are 10 members of BHP’s group management committee, all of who report to Mackenzie.