Denise Goldsworthy

Denise Goldsworthy AO is the founder and managing principal of Alternate Futures, which she established in October 2013 after a career with Rio Tinto and BHP Steel. She is also a non-executive director and advisor on research, technology and innovation.

Ms Goldsworthy is a director of the Buttery Limited and member of the Buttery Foundation Committee, was chair of ChemCentre WA for over 8 years and former director of Export Finance and Insurance Commission, council member and subsequently chancellor of Edith Cowan University, member of the Commercialisation Advisory Board for Curtin University, advisor to Professor Ian Chubb (Australia’s Chief Scientist) on national energy and resources research priorities, and participant in AusTrade international trade delegations aimed at promoting Australian research, technology and METS companies to the world.

Ms Goldsworthy started her career at BHP Steel Newcastle, with 17 years in leadership roles in both operations and technology. Following this, she worked as an executive for Rio Tinto for 15 years including as chief commercial officer Autonomous Haul Trucks, managing director of Dampier Salt, managing director HIsmelt and director of major projects.

Ms Goldsworthy was named 2010 Telstra Australian Business Woman of the Year. She is also a member of Chief Executive Women (CEW) and was inducted into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame in 2011.

Ms Goldsworthy holds a Bachelor of Metallurgy, is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management, a member of Chief Executive Women, a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Science and Engineering, and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

In 2020, Ms Goldsworthy was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished services to business, particularly to technological innovation and research in the mining and manufacturing sectors.