Chief Operating Officer (Coo / Mining Engineer / Africa / Listed Entity / Nasdaq Entity) Gauten[...]

Ca Global Headhunters; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 750 000; Full time

Job summary

An international mining company is seeking a VP Exploration based in Gauteng, South Africa. This role involves leading multi-rig drilling programs and overseeing geological modelling, compliance with reporting standards, and managing a high-performing exploration team. Candidates should have a strong educational background in Geology and 15 years of experience in gold exploration, along with expertise in the African greenstone belt.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Long-term incentive plan

Stock options

Qualifications

• 15 years’ experience in gold exploration with a proven track record.
• In-depth knowledge of NI SAMREC reporting and working with QPs/CPs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the exploration strategy and execution.
• Oversee geological modelling and compliance with reporting standards.
• Build and mentor a high-performing exploration team.

Skills

Expertise in the African greenstone belt

Proficient in 3D modelling (Leapfrog/Datamine)

Geostatistics

QA/QC sampling and drilling methods

Grade control

Education

MSc or PhD in Geology or a related field

Professionally registered/chartered status

Job description

Overview

Our client, an international mining house with operating mines and exploration projects in Africa, is looking for a VP Exploration to lead multi‑rig drilling programs across Africa based out of Gauteng, South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Lead the exploration strategy and execution to deliver feasibility‑study‑ready geological inputs at existing mines.
• Lead multi‑rig drilling programs (RC & DD) aligned with project timelines and feasibility studies.
• Oversee geological modelling, resource estimation and compliance with NI SAMREC and Nasdaq reporting standards.
• Manage QA/QC sampling, assay protocols and data governance.
• Integrate geology with geotechnical, metallurgical, and hydrogeological inputs for study work.
• Build and mentor a high‑performing exploration team; manage contractors and budgets.
• Drive stakeholder engagement on exploration matters (community ESG permitting).
• Present technical updates to the Executive Team, Board and investors.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Geology or a related field.
• Professionally registered/chartered status preferred.
• 15 years’ experience in gold exploration with a proven track record of growing resources and advancing feasibility studies.
• Expertise in the African greenstone belt.
• Proficient in 3D modelling (Leapfrog/Datamine), geostatistics, QA/QC sampling, drilling methods and grade control.
• In‑depth knowledge of NI SAMREC reporting and working with QPs/CPs.

Contractual Information

Permanent contract subject to successful completion of an initial probationary/fixed‑term period. Competitive salary package with long‑term incentive plan and stock options.

Application Process

Please send your CV to the recruiting contact. Candidates who are not shortlisted will be informed, and CVs will be kept in our database for other suitable positions.