A big name in the local aluminium game has taken on a role as the head of the Australian Aluminium Council.

Rio Tinto bauxite and alumina president Phillip Strachan has been appointed as chief of the industry lobby.

“I look forward to supporting the important role the Council has to play in representing the industry as it faces what are truly the toughest of times, with a high Australian dollar and low global prices,” Mr Strachan said in a statement about his posting.

Alcoa Australia's managing director Alan Cransberg is the Council's new vice president.

Aluminium has been one of the poorest-performing resources in recent years, seeing it price fall as major mining companies look to exit the metal.

Rio Tinto has been looking for a way out of its Alcan assets for over a year, while BHP ditched its alumina assets in a recent demerger.

“[But] it’s important we don’t lose sight of the bright future the sector has globally,” Mr Strachan said.

“Demand for aluminium is growing strongly and Australia is blessed with plentiful bauxite resources

“We will focus on continuing to play a constructive role in the debate on issues that affect the ability of the industry here in Australia to be competitive in the global market.

“With the removal of unnecessary regulation, inefficient polices and cost burdens, our industry can continue to provide attractive and long-term employment for thousands of people in regional Australia,” he said.