Rex Tillerson, the ExxonMobil chief picked to head the US State Department, has built close ties with leaders around the globe, but most notably and controversially with Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
Trained as an engineer, the silver-haired oilman is 64 and has never worked in government, but his global deal-making experience could be an asset in defending US interests.
His close relationship with Putin likely was key to President-elect Donald Trump’s choice. Trump is keen to improve ties with Russia which soured greatly when Russia annexed Crimea in 2014.





























