Molloy was one of more than 200 people canvassed for the position of HVCCC CEO, its chairman Tony Haraldson said.

She will take up the position after completion of her role as South East Australia business manager for Orica Mining Services.

“After an exhaustive selection process we have been able to secure the services of an outstanding candidate,” Haraldson said.

“Kirsten brings extensive experience in logistics and supply chain management to the HVCCC.

“Her priority will be to maintain efficiency throughout the Hunter Valley coal chain by working cooperatively with all of HVCCC’s members.”

Molloy will start her role at the HVCCC at the end of April.

She replaces inaugural HVCCC CEO Jonathan Vandervoort, who departed in January.

Shanthi Herd will continue as HVCCC acting CEO until the arrival of Molloy, Haraldson said.

Whitehaven Coal appointed Vandervoort as its executive general manager, infrastructure, in December.

One of Vandervoort’s first tasks was to ensure that coal was being railed efficiently from Whitehaven’s Narrabri mine to the Port of Newcastle after a November derailment blocked the line.

Vandervoort is responsible for providing infrastructure to support Whitehaven’s existing and developing mining operations as well as take on responsibility for new projects, previously covered under Whitehaven’s business development function, said managing director Tony Haggarty.