Non-Executive Director of Kazakhmys PLC
Clinton graduated with a Griffith degree in Asian Studies in 1979, and left Australia that year on an 18-month postgraduate program arranged by Griffith. The program gave him the opportunity to learn Chinese in-country, teach English to Chinese teachers and graduates, and be immersed in the culture and traditions of the region - which proved both an enriching and challenging experience. Through this experience, Clinton developed a love for China and its people, and has been working in the Greater China Region ever since.
During his career Clinton has occupied management positions with the Jardine Matheson Group, the Santa Fe Transport Group and Asia Securities Venture Capital. For the past 18 years he has been the senior country executive in China for BHP and, since the merger in 2001, President of BHP Billiton China - the world's largest diversified resource group.
The Outstanding Alumnus Award for 2008 was presented to Clinton at the annual gala Griffith Business School Alumni Network dinner, held at the Queensland Art Gallery.
"The value of my degree in Asian Studies in the mid-seventies only became apparent to me in later years, as I found myself on a very China-oriented career path." Clinton Dines
"The quality and knowledge of senior teaching staff, combined with the infectiously enthusiastic Griffith environment definitely helped me view changes in China from a broader perspective. This has been the basis for what has now become a 27-year-plus living and working involvement in China, and a very satisfactory collection of personal and business experiences."
Clinton is married, and has three children - the youngest of whom was adopted in China. In keeping with his Aussie origins, he continues his love of sport as an active member of the Shanghai Rugby Football Club.