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, the role combines strategic planning, safety leadership, and operational excellence 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 that meet production targets.
• Ensure 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, safety and contractual obligations.
• Lead, mentor and develop Mining Superintendents, Shift Bosses, Supervisors and engineers, supporting succession planning.
• Monitor production performance, identify operational risks and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Extensive senior‑level experience in underground gold mining operations.
• Proven track record of delivering safe, efficient and commercially successful production.
• Strong knowledge of mining legislation, safety standards and mine planning processes.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large multidisciplinary teams in remote, FIFO settings.
• Experience in budgeting, cost control and capital project planning.

Required skills

• Underground mining operations
• Mine development and production planning
• Budget and cost management
• Contractor management
• Safety compliance and risk management