Senior Operations Manager - Mining

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Relocation assistance

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Operations Manager to oversee a key mining division in Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on driving operational excellence, maximizing productivity, and ensuring safety and environmental compliance.

You will lead planning, budgeting, and continuous improvement initiatives, manage a team of professionals, and collaborate with maintenance, geology, and HR to integrate operations across the site.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related field.
• MBA or advanced degree is advantageous.
• 10+ years in mining operations management with success.
• Experience in underground and open-pit operations preferred.
• Strong leadership and budgeting capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day mining operations, planning, execution, and monitoring.
• Develop strategies to optimize efficiency, cost, and resource use.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental compliance and policies.
• Lead and mentor mining professionals and staff.
• Develop and manage operational budgets and KPIs.
• Drive continuous improvement and quality control throughout production.
• Collaborate with maintenance, geology, and HR for integrated operations.
• Lead incident investigations and implement corrective actions.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Strategic planning

Problem solving

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Team management

Education

Mining Engineering degree

MBA or advanced degree (advantageous)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the South African mining landscape, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Operations Manager to oversee a key mining division. This leadership role is responsible for driving operational excellence, ensuring maximum productivity, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and environmental compliance. The successful candidate will manage all aspects of the mining operation, from resource extraction to production output. This is a demanding but rewarding position located in Soweto, Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day mining operations, including planning, execution, and monitoring of production activities.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and resource utilization.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Manage and mentor a team of mining professionals, including supervisors, engineers, and operational staff.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring targets are met or exceeded.
• Implement and maintain robust quality control measures throughout the production process.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the operations team.
• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., maintenance, geology, HR) to ensure seamless integration of operations.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on operational performance to senior management.
• Lead incident investigations and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrences.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Metallurgy, or a related field.
• An MBA or advanced degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mining operations management, with a proven track record of success.
• Extensive experience in managing both underground and open-pit operations is preferred.
• Strong understanding of mining processes, equipment, and technologies.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate.
• Excellent financial acumen and experience in budget management.
• Exceptional problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Must be willing to reside and work full-time in the Soweto, Gauteng area.
• Experience working within the Soweto, Gauteng region is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive senior management salary, substantial annual bonus, comprehensive private medical aid, and an excellent retirement fund.
• The company is committed to professional development and provides ample opportunities for career advancement within its extensive operations.
• Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates relocating to the Soweto, Gauteng area.