Senior Operations Manager - Underground Mining

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 3,000,000 - 5,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health benefits

Bonuses

Professional development

Long-term incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Operations Manager to oversee underground mining activities near Randburg, Gauteng. This executive role demands a seasoned leader with a track record in production, safety, financial stewardship, and team development within mining.

The successful candidate will drive operational excellence and strategic outcomes for the mine. Responsibilities include directing all underground operations, developing strategies to achieve targets, ensuring regulatory compliance,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree or MBA is highly advantageous.
• 15+ years in underground mining operations, with at least 7 years in senior management.
• Experience in large-scale underground operations (LOM planning, scheduling, budgeting).
• Knowledge of safety management systems and mining regulations.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Proven ability to manage complex budgets and financial performance.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Pr. Eng. or equivalent is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all underground mining operations, including production, safety, maintenance, and administration.
• Develop and implement strategies to meet production targets, reduce costs, and improve safety performance.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage the operational budget and optimize resource allocation.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of mining professionals.
• Oversee mine planning integration with production execution.
• Promote a strong safety culture across the operation.
• Foster relationships with regulators, communities, and management.
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation in operations.
• Ensure maintenance and utilization of mining equipment and infrastructure.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished mining group, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Operations Manager to oversee their underground mining activities in the vicinity of Randburg, Gauteng . This executive-level position requires a visionary leader with a proven track record in managing complex underground mining operations safely, efficiently, and profitably. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in production management, safety leadership, financial oversight, and team development within the mining industry. You will be instrumental in driving operational excellence and achieving strategic objectives for the mine. This is a critical role for a seasoned mining professional seeking to make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of underground mining operations, including production, safety, maintenance, and administration.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to achieve production targets, cost efficiencies, and safety performance goals.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage the operational budget, optimize resource allocation, and control costs effectively.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of mining professionals and staff.
• Oversee mine planning integration with production execution to ensure alignment.
• Implement and promote a strong safety culture throughout the operation.
• Foster positive relationships with stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, local communities, and management.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance and innovation.
• Ensure the effective maintenance and utilization of mining equipment and infrastructure.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related technical field.
• A Master's degree or MBA is highly advantageous.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in underground mining operations, with at least 7 years in a senior management role (e.g., Mine Manager, Operations Manager).
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale underground mining operations (e.g., LOM planning, production scheduling, budget management).
• In-depth knowledge of safety management systems, mining regulations, and best practices.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making capabilities.
• Proven ability to manage complex budgets and financial performance.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) or equivalent qualification is highly preferred.
• Experience in managing diverse teams and fostering a positive work environment.
• Resilience and ability to perform under pressure in a challenging operational setting.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional executive compensation package, including a highly competitive salary, significant performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive executive health benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, executive coaching, and international exposure are abundant.
• This role comes with generous leave provisions and long-term incentive plans.
• Based in the bustling economic center near Randburg, Gauteng , this position offers the chance to lead significant mining ventures within a globally respected organization committed to operational excellence and sustainable mining.