Ports and rail operator Asciano Group has announced a major shake up and expansion of its board, with the appointment of 3 new non executive directors, one of whom will become the new chairman.

Asciano said late last week that it would appoint Mr Malcolm Broomhead, Mr Bob Edgarand and Mr Geoff Kleemann as directors at the company's next board meeting to be held on September 22nd 2009.

Mr Broomhead, who was CEO of explosives and chemicals supplier Orica from 2001 to 2005, will take over the chairmanship of Asciano when incumbent Mr Tim Poole steps down from the chair and the board following Asciano's annual general meeting on October 23rd 2009.

The Asciano board will increase from 4 to 6 directors, including the chairman. The appointment of the three new directors will require endorsement by security holders at the annual general meeting.

Mr Edgar retired recently as deputy chief executive of the ANZ Banking Group. Mr Kleeman is a former CFO of casino operator group Crown.

(Sourced from www.cargonewsasia.com)