Senior Mining Operations Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level package

Premium benefits

Relocation assistance

Career advancement

Global organization

Leadership role in projects

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a major international mining group to appoint a Senior Mining Operations Manager for its Stellenbosch operation in the Western Cape. You will oversee all mining activities, drive safety culture, optimize production and budget, and report to the executive team.

The role requires 15+ years in mining operations with 7+ in leadership, a Mining Engineering degree (MBA preferred), and proven success in open-pit or underground operations. Relocation support is provided.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related field.
• 15+ years in mining operations with 7+ in senior leadership.
• Experience in open-pit and/or underground mining operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day mining operations ensuring safety, production, cost, and quality targets.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans aligned with business objectives.
• Foster safety culture and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Optimize resource allocation, including personnel, equipment, and budget.
• Lead mine managers and operations staff; report to senior management.
• Drive continuous improvement and technology adoption.
• Build relationships with local government and community stakeholders.
• Coordinate between mining, processing, maintenance, and support departments.
• Report operational performance to executives.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Budget management

Safety management

Stakeholder engagement

Mine planning

Operational excellence

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

MBA or Master's degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major international force in the mining industry, is seeking an accomplished and strategic Senior Mining Operations Manager to oversee their operations in the scenic region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This executive-level position is responsible for the safe, efficient, and profitable management of all mining activities, including planning, production, maintenance, and community relations. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of leadership in complex mining environments, a deep understanding of operational best practices, and the ability to drive continuous improvement and innovation. You will be instrumental in fostering a strong safety culture and ensuring the sustainable development of the company's assets in the Western Cape . This role offers significant responsibility and the opportunity to shape the future of a key mining operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day aspects of mining operations, ensuring targets for safety, production, cost, and quality are met or exceeded.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans aligned with the company’s overall business objectives.
• Foster a robust safety culture, ensuring strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage and optimize resource allocation, including personnel, equipment, and budget.
• Lead and mentor a diverse team of mine managers, supervisors, and operational staff.
• Implement best practices in operational efficiency, productivity, and cost management.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and technological adoption within operations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local stakeholders, including government authorities and community representatives.
• Ensure effective coordination between mining, processing, maintenance, and other support departments.
• Report on operational performance to senior executive management.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related field. An MBA or Master's degree is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in mining operations management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Mine Manager, Operations Director).
• Extensive experience in managing large-scale open-pit and/or underground mining operations.
• Proven ability to manage complex budgets and drive cost efficiencies.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with a strong emphasis on safety and people management.
• In-depth knowledge of mine planning, production, maintenance, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent strategic planning, decision-making, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) designation is preferred.
• Experience operating within the South African mining legislative and social context is essential.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive bonus package, reflecting the role's importance.
• Full suite of premium health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within a global organization.
• The chance to lead substantial and impactful mining projects.
• A dynamic leadership role within a company committed to operational excellence and sustainability.
• Relocation assistance provided for successful candidates moving to the Stellenbosch area.