BHP Billiton announced today that Mr Chris Lynch would retire from the Board on 30 June and from the Company early in the new financial year. Mr Lynch is currently Group President Carbon Steel Materials and an Executive Director. He was appointed to the Board in January 2006.

Commenting on his decision, Mr Lynch said he would leave feeling confident about the future success of BHP Billiton and its outstanding people. "My time with BHP and then BHP Billiton has been both professionally and personally rewarding and I am looking forward to new challenges. I wish the Company great success in the years ahead," he said.

Chief Executive Officer Chip Goodyear paid tribute to Mr Lynch. "I have had the privilege of working alongside Chris over the last seven years. I thank him for his commitment to the Company and for his support and guidance. I wish him health and happiness in the years ahead," he said.

Chairman Don Argus also paid tribute to Mr Lynch and to his considerable achievements over the past seven years. "Chris is a world class executive who has made a significant contribution to the Company over many years, including in his role as Chief Financial Officer and more recently as Group President Carbon Steel Materials. My Board colleagues join me in thanking him for his many contributions to the Company," he said.

An announcement about Mr Lynch's replacement will be made in due course. Until that time the Chief Executive Officer, Chip Goodyear, will assume the responsibilities of the role.