About Jason Ellis
Jason Ellis
A 30-Year Journey Through Global Steel, Strategy & Transformation
Jason Ellis’s career has been defined by his international reach and his role in industrial transformations for over 30 years. His journey started in 1993 with BHP, where he achieved an early exposure across finance, sales, marketing, and operations. His current leadership role includes serving as the Chairman of Empower Steel Australia Pty Ltd and Executive Chairman of iTrade Steel Pty Ltd.
His education shaped his governance as he holds a BA (Political Science) from the University of Sydney. MCom in Finance from the University of Wollongong and a fellowship from the Australian Institute of Company Directors. In personal life, he stays grounded, shaped by long-term thinking and family values.
A Portfolio of Global Steel and Industrial Leadership Roles
BHP – Finance, Sales & Operations Roles (1993–1999)
Held multiple early roles across finance, sales, marketing, and operations within a global resources organisation.
BHP Lysaght – President (Sri Lanka & Thailand)
Led regional steel building operations, managing commercial performance, growth, and early international market expansion.
BlueScope Steel – Senior Executive Leadership Roles (Australia & Southeast Asia)
Led A$3.5B operations in Australia and US$600M Southeast Asia businesses, driving growth and integration.
Commercial Metals Company – Group General Manager (Australia)
Managed US$300M steel distribution operations, focusing on commercial strategy, efficiency, and business expansion.
Butler – President (China)
Directed a US$300M business managing 1,250 employees across engineering, manufacturing, and construction operations.
Tata BlueScope Steel – President (India)
Spearheaded a US$100M startup, establishing manufacturing operations and scaling industrial presence across India.
iTrade Steel Pty Ltd – Executive Chairman (Current)
Provides strategic leadership, driving growth, expansion, and commercial direction across steel trading operations.
Empower Steel Australia Pty Ltd – Chairman (Current)
Leads governance, strategy, and operational excellence, driving long-term industrial value creation in Australia.