Head of Mining Operations (Gold Mine)

About the role

The Head of Mining Operations will lead all underground mining activities for a gold mine in Central Province, Papua New Guinea. Reporting to executive management, this senior leader is responsible for safe, efficient and commercially successful production in a remote FIFO environment.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for underground mining, including development, production, ground support, ventilation and mine services.
• Collaborate with Technical Services and Geology to create short‑, medium‑ and long‑term mine plans aligned with production targets.
• Champion safety compliance with mining legislation, statutory requirements and the Mine Safety Management System.
• Manage departmental budgets, operational costs and capital expenditure planning, driving continuous cost optimisation.
• Oversee contractor performance to meet productivity, contractual and safety standards.
• Lead, mentor and develop Mining Superintendents, Shift Bosses, Supervisors, Engineers and operational staff, supporting succession planning.
• Monitor production performance, identify operational risks and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in underground gold mining operations and mine development.
• Proven senior leadership in a remote, FIFO mining environment.
• Strong knowledge of statutory mining regulations and international safety standards.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large multidisciplinary teams and large‑scale budgets.
• Strategic mindset with a focus on operational excellence and cost efficiency.

Required skills

• Underground mining operations management
• Mine planning and development
• Safety management systems
• Contractor performance oversight
• Budget and capital expenditure control