Fortescue Metals boss Fiona Hick will leave the company just six months after filling the chief executive role, in the latest senior management exit from the iron ore giant chaired by billionaire Andrew Forrest.

Ms Hick was announced as the leader of Fortescue’s iron ore division only in November, and started in February. But on Monday, the company said she would exit. “The departure of Fiona has been both friendly and mutual, and we warmly wish her the best for her future,” Dr Forrest said.