Base Metals Exploration Lead — Relocation to Mossel Bay

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 50,000,000 - 70,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Performance bonuses

Long-term incentives

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Exploration Manager for a globally recognized mining group based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will lead base metals exploration strategy, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, and oversee large budgets to deliver world-class deposits.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in geology, 15+ years in mineral exploration including 7+ in senior leadership, and strong knowledge of JORC/NI 43-101. Travel, stakeholder engagement, and relocation support are offered.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geology, Economic Geology, or related earth science field.
• 15+ years' progressive mineral exploration experience, with 7+ years in senior management/leadership in base metals.
• Proven success in discovering significant base metal deposits (copper, zinc, nickel, lead).
• Expertise in exploration methodologies: geophysics, geochemistry, remote sensing, and advanced geological modeling.
• Experience managing exploration budgets > R50 million per annum.
• Strong knowledge of international reporting codes (JORC, NI 43-101).
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively; experience in Western Cape is a plus.
• Membership in a professional body (e.g., GSSA).

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic exploration plan for base metals across target regions.
• Identify, assess, and secure new exploration opportunities; conduct due diligence and feasibility studies.
• Lead multidisciplinary exploration teams including geologists, geophysicists, geochemists, and technicians.
• Oversee design and execution of exploration programs: reconnaissance, mapping, drilling, resource estimation.
• Manage exploration budgets and ensure financial targets are met.
• Interpret geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to define targets and priorities.
• Ensure compliance with legislation, regulations, and company standards.
• Build relationships with government authorities, JV partners, and local communities.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior management and board.
• Foster innovation, safety, and technical excellence within the team.
• Conduct site visits and fieldwork; travel within Western Cape and beyond.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Budget management

Geology

Team management

Communication

Negotiation

Travel readiness

Education

Master's or PhD in Geology

Tools

Geophysical methods

Geochemical analysis

Remote sensing

Geological modeling

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Exploration Manager for a globally recognized mining group based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will lead base metals exploration strategy, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, and oversee large budgets to deliver world-class deposits.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in geology, 15+ years in mineral exploration including 7+ in senior leadership, and strong knowledge of JORC/NI 43-101. Travel, stakeholder engagement, and relocation support are offered.