Currently the chief executive officer at Fortescue Metals Group, Hick was appointed CME president in April 2020 while serving as Woodside executive vice president.

She stepped down after two years at the helm.

Craig was appointed at the CME's annual general meeting, with Newmont regional chief financial officer Felicity Hughes and DEVELOP managing director Bill Beament reappointed as vice presidents.

Craig said he felt honoured to lead the CME through an exciting time for the resources sector in WA.

"Our WA resources industry plays an important role in shaping both our state and national economies and makes a significant contribution through employment, royalties and continued support for regional communities," he said.

"The CME is a highly valued member organisation and I look forward to working with the executive council, Rebecca and the team as WA maintains its vital place as a resources powerhouse."

CME chief executive officer Rebecca Tomkinson said Craig was an extremely experienced and knowledgeable leader passionate about the mining and resources sector.

"He takes on the presidency at a time of great opportunity for the sector, as we look to build on the strength of our gold industry, iron ore and oil and gas sectors while also facilitating the exponential growth of our emerging critical minerals sector that will be crucial to meet our decarbonisation goals," she said.

"There is more than $57 billion worth of resources projects that are either committed or under construction across the state, while a further $87 billion are in the pipeline."

Tomkinson said the amount of economic opportunity that would create was extraordinary.