Lead Mining Operations Manager

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Bonus opportunities

Relocation assistance

Career advancement

Executive training

Job summary

Our client in the SA mining sector seeks a Lead Mining Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day operations at a Centurion site. This on-site role requires deep mine planning, production optimization, and strong leadership to drive efficiency, safety, and profitability.

You will manage large teams, optimize resource allocation, and ensure regulatory compliance across HSE requirements while collaborating with engineering, geology, and maintenance functions.

Qualifications

• BSc/BEng in Mining Engineering; Masters/MBA advantageous.
• 10+ years in mining operations management with senior leadership.
• Proven experience managing large underground/surface operations.
• In-depth knowledge of mining methods, equipment, and technologies.
• Strong mine planning, scheduling, and production optimization.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with budgets, cost control, and efficiency improvements.
• Proficiency in mining software and ERP systems.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all underground and/or surface mining operations to achieve production targets.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans aligned with company objectives.
• Oversee resource allocation including personnel, equipment, and materials.
• Ensure adherence to HSE regulations and company policies.
• Lead a large workforce and foster a productive work environment.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives for performance gains.
• Monitor costs and identify opportunities for savings and efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering, geology, and maintenance teams.
• Develop and manage operating budgets and financial targets.
• Report performance to senior management with insights and recommendations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Mine planning

Scheduling

Production optimization

Budget management

ERP systems

Mining software

Regulatory compliance

Education

BSc/BEng Mining Engineering

Masters or MBA (advantageous)

Tools

Mining software

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the South African mining sector, is actively recruiting for a highly experienced and results-oriented Lead Mining Operations Manager. This critical on-site role is based in Centurion, Gauteng. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of day-to-day mining operations, ensuring maximum efficiency, safety, and profitability. This position demands strong leadership qualities, a deep understanding of mine planning, production management, and a proven track record of success in operational leadership. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in managing large teams, optimizing resource allocation, and implementing best practices across various mining disciplines. You will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations. This is a demanding but rewarding opportunity to shape the future of significant mining operations and contribute to the company's continued growth and success in the dynamic mining industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all underground and/or surface mining operations to achieve production targets.


• Develop and implement strategic operational plans aligned with company objectives.


• Oversee resource allocation, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to optimize efficiency.


• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.


• Manage and motivate a large workforce, fostering a positive and productive work environment.


• Implement and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance.


• Monitor operational costs and identify opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency gains.


• Collaborate with engineering, geology, and maintenance departments to ensure seamless operations.


• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring financial targets are met.


• Report on operational performance to senior management, providing insights and recommendations.

Requirements

• BSc/BEng in Mining Engineering or a related field; a Master's degree or MBA is advantageous.


• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mining operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.


• Proven experience managing large-scale underground and/or surface mining operations.


• In-depth knowledge of mining methods, equipment, and technologies.


• Strong understanding of mine planning, scheduling, and production optimization.


• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.


• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, control costs, and improve operational efficiency.


• Proficiency in relevant mining software and ERP systems.


• Strong commitment to health, safety, and environmental stewardship.


• Experience working in South Africa's regulatory environment is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary package.


• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.


• Significant bonus and incentive opportunities based on performance.


• Opportunity to lead major mining operations in a key economic region.


• Relocation assistance may be provided.


• Career advancement opportunities within a leading mining organization.


• Professional development and executive training.