Debelle steps down from new role after accident
By Elizabeth Fry
Former Reserve Bank of Australia deputy governor Guy Debelle is standing down as finance chief of Fortescue Future Industries after a serious bike crash.
"Over the past few months, he has been recovering while managing the demanding duties associated with his role as CFO and has made the difficult decision to step back to be able to focus on his health," the company said.
Debelle will remain on the board for the hydrogen-focused company and focus on policy, regulatory and financial advisory, including the Australian green energy market.
He said said the decision to step down after such a short time at the company had been difficult.
"I am, sadly, not in a position to give this role everything I know it deserves right now," he said.
"It is a critical time for the green energy transition, and we cannot slow down."
Said Fortescue founder and executive chair Andrew Forest:" Guy is an outstanding human being who also happens to be one of the brightest economic minds in this country.
Forrest - the head of philanthropy arm Minderoo and investment company Tattarang - said Debelle's recovery has been tough and is ongoing.
"He {Guy} is passionate about climate change action and deeply committed to making a difference. He has decided - with my full support and the support of the Fortescue family, to stand down from this role and transition to a role on the FFI board so he can fully focus on his recovery."
Fortescue has appointed Felicity Gooding as interim finance chief.
