Mining giant Rio Tinto on Friday appointed Ian Bauert, who set up the company's first office in China more than 25 years ago and is fluent in Chinese, to head its operations in the country, aiming to improve relations with its largest customer.

"Ian's experience and leadership will provide strategic direction and help guide all aspects of our engagement with China, one of our most important partners," said CEO Tom Albanese.

Albanese said he was deeply committed to developing the firm's relationship with China.