Venkatesh Paidipalli is an experienced planning professional with a strong background in engineering and project control across the mining and resource sectors. Currently serving as the Lead Planner at Rio Tinto since April 2024, Venkatesh previously worked as a Lead Planning Engineer at Byrnecut Australia Pty Ltd and held positions at VHM Limited, Newcrest Mining, Hatch, BHP, Goodline, and Sepam. Significant contributions include leading planning efforts for major projects such as the Goschen Rare Earth and Mineral Sands Project and various initiatives within Newcrest’s operations. Venkatesh holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Southern Queensland and possesses NV1 Security clearance.