Lead Exploration Manager

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 2,000,000 - 4,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Company car

Travel allowance

Relocation assistance to Sandton area

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Exploration Manager for a prominent mining group in Gauteng. You will shape exploration strategy, manage budgets, and lead geologists from grassroots to resource definition across Sandton and nearby areas.

The role requires 15+ years in mineral exploration, a Master’s or Ph.D. in Geology, strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, and a track record of advancing mineral projects using advanced geoscience techniques.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Geology or related geoscientific field.
• 15+ years in mineral exploration with leadership experience.
• Proven track record in discovering and advancing mineral deposits.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the company's exploration strategy.
• Lead a team of geologists and oversee budgets.
• Oversee drilling, geophysics, and geochemistry programs.
• Ensure ESG standards are met and reports prepared.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Stakeholder management

Geoscience expertise

Strategic planning

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Geology or related geoscientific field

Tools

Petrel

Leapfrog

ArcGIS

Geosoft

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent mining group with significant exploration activities, is seeking an experienced Lead Exploration Manager to oversee their strategic exploration programs in Sandton and surrounding regions. This senior leadership role requires a visionary geologist with a proven track record in discovering and advancing mineral projects from grassroots exploration through to resource definition. You will be responsible for developing and executing the company's exploration strategy, managing exploration budgets, and leading a team of geologists and geoscientists. Our client is dedicated to leveraging advanced exploration technologies and methodologies to identify and secure world‑class mineral assets. The successful candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, exceptional geological expertise, and excellent stakeholder management skills. This is a pivotal role that offers the opportunity to shape the future growth of the company within the Gauteng province and beyond. The hybrid nature of this position allows for strategic leadership and team coordination remotely, combined with essential on‑site visits to project areas and operational hubs, ensuring comprehensive oversight and engagement. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a passion for discovery and a commitment to ethical and sustainable exploration practices. Your leadership will be instrumental in driving value and expanding the company's mineral portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the company's overall exploration strategy and business plan.
• Manage and oversee all grassroots to advanced exploration projects.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of exploration geologists and associated professionals.
• Manage exploration budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and cost control.
• Identify and evaluate new exploration opportunities and potential project acquisitions.
• Oversee the planning and execution of exploration programs, including drilling, geophysics, and geochemistry.
• Ensure exploration activities comply with all relevant environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards and regulations.
• Interpret geological data and guide resource estimation efforts.
• Liaise with internal stakeholders, including senior management, and external stakeholders, including government bodies and partners.
• Prepare comprehensive exploration reports, presentations, and strategic recommendations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology or a related geoscientific field.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a significant portion in leadership roles.
• Demonstrated success in discovering and advancing mineral deposits.
• Extensive knowledge of exploration techniques, geological modeling, and resource estimation.
• Strong strategic planning, project management, and financial acumen.
• Excellent leadership, team‑building, and communication skills.
• Experience working with diverse teams and stakeholders in various jurisdictions.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote strategic work with on‑site project engagement.
• Familiarity with the Sandton business environment and Gauteng mining sector is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Executive compensation package including base salary, significant bonus, and equity options.
• Comprehensive executive medical and retirement benefits.
• Company car and travel allowance.
• Relocation assistance to the Sandton area.
• Opportunity to lead exploration strategy for a growing mining company.
• Exposure to diverse geological terrains and commodity types.
• A dynamic and forward‑thinking corporate culture.