Wicks succeeded Dave Murray as chairman of the Institute. A director of WCI since 2001, Wicks is executive vice president: global strategy, marketing and sustainable development at Anglo Coal.

Commenting on his appointment Wicks had this to say: “Recent work of the Institute, culminating in contributions to the World Summit on Sustainable Development, has focused on positioning coal as a key contributor in the mix of fuels required to securely meet the world’s growing energy needs.

“Important work is also being done to promote and extend the use of advanced technologies to reduce the environmental impact associated with the use of coal. My role will be to take this programme forward.”