Trafigura’s Head of Lithium Is Latest Metals Trader to Depart

Claire Blanchelande, head of lithium at Trafigura Group, is leaving in the latest departure from the trading house’s metals unit.

A rare prominent woman in an industry — and company — whose senior ranks are dominated by men, Blanchelande has led Trafigura’s push to establish itself in the lithium market, where traditionally producers sold direct to consumers with little need for intermediaries.