Group Operations Manager

Purpose

To lead and oversee the Group’s mining and logistics operations by driving operational discipline, efficiency, profitability, compliance, and service excellence across all Business Units. The Operations Director will serve as the Group’s operational subject matter expert, providing strong hands-on leadership and technical oversight across mining logistics, transport, warehousing, bulk commodity handling, and operational support functions. The role requires a highly experienced operational leader capable of interrogating operational performance, identifying inefficiencies holding operational teams accountable, and implementing practical operational improvements that enhance productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen operational sustainability.

The incumbent must possess deep operational understanding and practical experience within mining logistics and related operational environments to ensure the business is not exposed to operational inefficiencies, unnecessary expenditure, poor controls, or underperformance.

Key Responsibilities

·        Group Operational Leadership & Strategy

·        Operations Management & Operational Excellence

·        Financial & Commercial Management

·        Governance, Risk & Compliance Management

·        Operational Systems & Continuous Improvement

·        People Leadership & Culture

Duties

·        Develop and execute the Group operational strategy aligned to the organisation’s strategic objectives.

·        Provide leadership and direction to all General Managers and operational leadership teams across the Group.

·        Provide hands-on operational oversight across all mining logistics and operational activities within the Group.

·        Ensure operational teams are managed with strong accountability, operational discipline, and performance focus.

·        Continuously interrogate operational performance, workflows, productivity, fleet utilisation, downtime, throughput, and operational costs.

·        Oversee operational budgets, expenditure, profitability, and cost management across the Group.

·        Ensure all Business Units operate within approved budgets and financial targets.

·        Drive cost optimisation initiatives while maintaining operational efficiency and service quality.

·        Ensure operational compliance with all legislative, regulatory, contractual, and internal governance requirements.

·        Oversee Group operational risk management frameworks and mitigation strategies.

·        Ensure compliance with SHEQ, ISO, RTMS, and other certification standards.

·        Drive operational efficiency through process optimisation and system improvements.

·        Lead the implementation and enhancement of operational systems, technologies, and reporting tools.

·        Identify opportunities for automation, innovation, and operational modernisation.

·        Lead and develop high-performing operational leadership teams.

·        Drive leadership accountability, succession planning, and talent development within operations.

·        Promote a culture aligned to Group values and operational excellence.

·        Ensure effective workforce planning across operational divisions.

Skills Required

·        Degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, Mining Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Business Management or related qualification

·        Postgraduate qualification (MBA or equivalent) advantageous

·        Project Management qualification advantageous

·        Minimum 10–15 years senior operational leadership experience within Mining, Logistics, Transport, Bulk Commodity Handling, Supply Chain, or related heavy operational environments

·        Minimum 5 years Executive or Multi-Site Management experience

·        Proven experience overseeing multiple Business Units and operational leadership teams

·        Extensive experience within mining logistics, bulk commodity transport, mining support services, and operational environments

·        Proven track record in improving operational efficiency, profitability, and operational performance

·        Strong understanding of operational reporting, KPI management, operational controls, and financial management

·        Ability to engage operational teams from a position of operational and technical credibility

·        Experience in driving operational optimisation, continuous improvement, and operational transformation initiatives

Competencies

·        Strategic Leadership

·        Mining Logistics Expertise

·        Operational Excellence

·        Financial Acumen

·        Business Acumen

·        Risk Management