Principal Exploration Manager

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 3,000,000 - 6,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Bonus potential

Executive-level benefits

Equity participation

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Training & conferences

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Exploration Manager to lead greenfield exploration in the Nelspruit, Mpumalanga region for a globally respected mining house. You will guide a multidisciplinary team across target generation, drilling and resource estimation, shaping the exploration program from concept to resource definition.

Role requires 15+ years in mineral exploration, advanced geoscience qualifications, strong leadership, and a track record of delivering world-class deposits.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geology or related earth science.
• 15+ years in mineral exploration with proven campaigns.
• Leadership, strategic thinking and business development capabilities.
• Proficient in geological modeling and GIS software.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing budgets, teams and complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement exploration strategies and programs.
• Oversee target generation, drilling, and resource estimation.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary exploration team.
• Manage exploration budgets and ensure timely delivery.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Evaluate and acquire exploration licenses and opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with legislation and standards.
• Prepare reports and recommendations for executive leadership.
• Stay abreast of global exploration trends and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Business development

Geological modeling

GIS

Communication

Negotiation

Budget management

Team management

Education

Master's or PhD in Geology / Earth Science

Tools

Geological modeling software

GIS software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally respected mining house, is seeking an accomplished and strategic Principal Exploration Manager to lead their greenfield exploration initiatives in the Nelspruit, Mpumalanga region. This senior leadership position is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and advancing new mineral opportunities from initial concept through to resource definition. The successful candidate will manage a multidisciplinary team of geologists, geochemists, and geophysicists, driving exploration strategy and execution across a diverse portfolio. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of our client's resource base and make significant contributions to the mining industry. You will be pivotal in discovering and defining world-class mineral deposits, leveraging your expertise in geological interpretation, target generation, and project management.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative exploration strategies and programs to identify new mineral resources.
• Manage all aspects of the exploration cycle, from target generation and reconnaissance to detailed drilling and resource estimation.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing exploration team, fostering a culture of technical excellence and safety.
• Oversee exploration budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and timely project delivery.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (e.g., mining, metallurgy, corporate development) and external partners.
• Evaluate and acquire new exploration licenses and opportunities.
• Ensure all exploration activities comply with relevant legislation, environmental standards, and ethical practices.
• Prepare comprehensive reports, presentations, and recommendations for executive management and the board.
• Stay abreast of global exploration trends, technologies, and best practices.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology or a related earth science discipline.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a proven track record in managing successful exploration campaigns.
• Extensive experience in diverse geological settings and commodities.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and business development skills.
• Proficiency with geological modeling and GIS software.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, teams, and complex projects effectively.
• Must hold valid South African work authorization.
• Professional Geoscientist (Pr.Sci.Nat.) registration with SACNASP is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional remuneration package, including a competitive base salary, significant bonus potential, executive-level benefits, and equity participation opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and relocation assistance are provided.
• The company champions professional development, offering extensive training, conference attendance, and opportunities for international assignments.

Join a world-class organization at the forefront of mineral exploration and contribute to shaping the future of mining.