General Manager

 

Location:

Phalaborwa, Limpopo

 

We are seeking a suitable General Manager that will be accountable for the strategic and operational leadership of two large operations in Phalaborwa.

This includes accountability for production performance, financial outcomes, contractor oversight, stakeholder relations, and legal compliance of the plants.

The GM plays a critical role in delivering on strategic objectives while fostering operational excellence and safety. This position carries a Section 16(1) legal appointment under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and reports to the Regional Director:  Phalaborwa

 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic & Executive Leadership

• Develop and implement business and operational plans in alignment with company directives and long-term goals.
• Provide operational insights and strategic input to the Regional Director and Group executive team.
• Monitor and manage performance across financial, operational, and compliance domains.
• Oversee all aspects of plant performance including production, cost, quality, and delivery.
• Drive alignment across teams, projects, and stakeholder groups to ensure consistent operational success.

 

2. Plant and Operational Management

• Oversee the performance of the plants including production, maintenance, inventory, and quality control.
• Ensure third-party operators meet all contractual KPIs and plant targets.
• Promote and oversee continuous improvement initiatives across all areas of plant performance.
• Drive project planning, execution, and delivery with a focus on safety, quality, time, and cost compliance.

 

3. Financial Management

• Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial controls to ensure profitability.
• Ensure positive cash flow and sound financial governance.

 

4. Contractor & Stakeholder Management

• Oversee and manage outsourced plant operator to ensure optimal performance.
• Maintain productive relationships with contractors, suppliers, and internal/external stakeholders.
• Chair operational meetings and follow up on action items and performance metrics.
• Engage with stakeholders and shareholders to build trust and transparency.

 

5. Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with OHSA, MHS Act, NEMA, ISO standards, and SHEQ requirements where necessary.
• Act as Section 16(1) legal appointment under the OHSA.
• Maintain effective risk mitigation plans and oversee audit preparedness and outcomes.
• Ensure adherence to internal policies, governance requirements, and industry regulations.

 

6. Project Planning & Mobilisation

• Lead project conceptualisation for plant sustainability and expansion initiatives.
• Approve resourcing, spares planning, and procurement in alignment with project timelines.

 

7. Performance & People Management

• Manage the performance of key personnel.
• Lead cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and accountability.
• Drive continuous improvement in productivity, cost, and operational excellence.

 

8. External Representation

• Represent the company externally, strengthening its profile, reputation, and business relationships with communities, industry forums, and regulators.

 

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Strategic and analytical thinking.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Deep understanding of quality systems (ISO, BMS).
• Strong project management and mobilisation experience.
• Knowledge of statutory compliance frameworks (OHSA, MHS, NEMA, etc.).

 

Key Deliverables:

• Achievement of production and financial KPIs.
• Compliance with legal and internal audit standards.
• Execution of plant optimisation and sustainability plans.
• Development of high-performing, safety-conscious teams.
• Shareholder and stakeholder satisfaction.

 

Experience and Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (preferably Mechanical Engineering or similar within the mining and mineral beneficiation industry).
• At least 10 years of leadership experience in heavy industry or mineral processing.
• Strong track record in plant operations and contractor management.
• Financial acumen in budgeting, forecasting, and cost optimisation.

 

Preferred:

• MBA or equivalent postgraduate qualification.
• Experience in Metallurgy, or related technical discipline.
• Experience reporting at board level or in a dual operational-strategic capacity.