LKAB vide a release on its website informed that LKAB's President and CEO, Mr Ola Johnsson, has passed away at the age of 53 after a period of illness.

Mr Ola was employed by LKAB in 1984 and served as a member of group management from 1999. He was appointed President and CEO in March 2008.

Mr Ola is survived by his wife Susanne and three adult children. He died at home on Wednesday evening.

Mr Björn Sprängare chairman of LKAB stated that “I am greatly saddened that Ola Johnsson has left us in his prime. With his immense professional knowledge and his unique personality, he has played a decisive role for LKAB's development as a world leading producer of iron ore pellets. Ola was highly respected in all quarters and we will miss him as a person, colleague and leader. We mourn his passing and our thoughts are with his family who has lost a husband and father.”

Acting President and CEO of LKAB, since 28 April, is Mr Lars-Eric Aaro.