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, covering mine 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 by ensuring 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, operational 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.
• Foster a high‑performance safety culture across the multidisciplinary team.

Required profile

• Extensive senior leadership experience in underground mining operations.
• Proven ability to manage large multidisciplinary teams in remote, FIFO settings.
• Strong knowledge of statutory mining regulations and international safety standards.
• Experience in production planning, contractor management and budget control.
• Ability to work closely with Technical Services, Geology, Processing and Executive Management.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a historic underground gold operation.
• Competitive remuneration package.
• Professional development in a high‑growth mining company.