Benjamin Sporton was appointed Chief Executive of the World Coal Association in June 2015 after serving as Acting Chief Executive in November 2014.

Benjamin joined the World Coal Association as Policy Director in May 2010 and became Deputy Chief Executive in May 2012. Before his appointment as Chief Executive Benjamin led WCA’s strategic and business planning, and was responsible for leading WCA's policy and advocacy work with a particular focus on energy poverty, sustainable development and climate change issues.

Benjamin is a Member of the International Advisory Committee to the Energy & Environment Foundation of India and a Member of the Coal Industry Advisory Board to the International Energy Agency.

Prior to joining the World Coal Association, Benjamin held senior policy leadership roles in United Kingdom and Australia. His achievements have included leading legislative reforms through the South Australian parliament to reform the state’s ailing workers compensation system, supporting the Mayor of London’s consultation on extension of the London Congestion Charge and modernising conduct of UK elections at the Department for Constitutional Affairs.

He holds an honours degree in politics from the University of Adelaide and has also studied at the University of Buenos Aires and the Australian Institute of Management.