Vale SA named logistics executive Marcello Spinelli as head of its ferrous metals and coal division, the company said May 27.

Spinelli has served as CEO of Vale spinoff VLI Logística, a rail and maritime port logistics operator in Brazil, and previously held senior roles in Vale's general cargo commercial area and Tubarão port operations.

Spinelli will replace Claudio de Oliveira Alves, who held the role on an interim basis.

The appointment was part of the company's recent leadership changes in the wake of the Feijao dam disaster that killed nearly 300 people in January.