Senior Exploration Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary and bonus

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Home office allowance

Conferences & training

Relocation assistance

Company car

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Exploration Manager to lead mineral exploration in the Western Cape, based in Stellenbosch. You will develop strategies, oversee projects from grassroots to resource definition, and mentor a team of geologists and geoscientists.

The role blends strategic planning with hands-on field execution in a hybrid work setup. Candidates should have a Master’s or Ph.D. in geology with 10+ years’ experience, P.Geo preferred, and willingness to travel internationally.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology or a related earth science field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive mineral exploration experience, with at least 5 years in leadership.
• Proven track record of successfully discovering and advancing mineral projects.
• Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo) or equivalent accreditation is required.
• Experience with hybrid work and managing remote teams.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive exploration strategies and business plans to identify and secure new mineral resources.
• Manage all aspects of the exploration cycle, from target generation to resource definition.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of exploration geologists, geochemists, and geophysicists.
• Oversee planning, budgeting, and execution of exploration programs, including field work and data acquisition.
• Evaluate geological data, conduct risk assessments, and make recommendations for expenditure and progression.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and company safety/environment standards.
• Build relationships with stakeholders, including government agencies and JV partners.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and prospectuses for management and investors.
• Stay updated on industry trends and new exploration technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Project management

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Geology

Tools

Geological modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading international mining exploration company, is seeking a strategic and accomplished Senior Exploration Manager to oversee their exploration activities in the Western Cape region, based out of Stellenbosch . This senior leadership role is responsible for identifying new exploration opportunities, developing exploration strategies, managing exploration projects from grassroots to advanced stages, and ensuring the successful discovery of economically viable mineral deposits. You will lead a team of geologists and geoscientists, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and rigorous scientific practice. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in mineral exploration, a deep understanding of geological principles and exploration techniques, and exceptional leadership and project management skills. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future exploration portfolio of a prominent mining organization. Your strategic vision and technical acumen will be crucial in guiding exploration investments and maximizing the success rate of new discoveries. We are looking for a proactive leader who can navigate complex geological terrains and manage diverse exploration programs effectively. The role requires a strong network within the geological and mining community and a commitment to best practices in exploration and environmental stewardship. This position offers a blend of strategic planning and hands‑on involvement in project execution, with the flexibility of a hybrid work model. Your leadership will be instrumental in driving the company's growth and maintaining its competitive edge in the global mining landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive exploration strategies and business plans to identify and secure new mineral resources.
• Manage all aspects of the exploration cycle, from target generation and grassroots exploration to advanced exploration and resource definition.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of exploration geologists, geochemists, and geophysicists.
• Oversee the planning, budgeting, and execution of exploration programs, including field work, drilling, and data acquisition.
• Evaluate geological data, conduct risk assessments, and make informed recommendations for exploration expenditure and project progression.
• Ensure all exploration activities comply with national and international regulations, as well as company standards for safety, health, and environmental management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and joint venture partners.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, presentations, and prospectuses for management, investors, and regulatory bodies.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and exploration methodologies, recommending their implementation.
• Contribute to the company's strategic decision-making regarding new ventures and portfolio management.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology, Economic Geology, or a related earth science field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role.
• Proven track record of successfully discovering and advancing mineral projects.
• Extensive knowledge of various deposit types, exploration techniques, and geological modeling software.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Strong strategic thinking, business acumen, and project management capabilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo) or equivalent professional accreditation is required.
• Experience working in a hybrid work environment and managing remote teams.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required for project oversight and business development.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and significant bonus potential tied to exploration success.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan contributions.
• Allowance for home office setup and technology.
• Opportunities for professional development, conferences, and specialized training.
• Be part of a dynamic and growing international exploration company.
• Significant impact on strategic direction and exploration success.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.
• Company car or travel allowance.