Chief Operating Officer - JHB at TAU Mining (Pty) Ltd.

Job purpose:

Responsible for the strategic planning, coordinating and profitable execution of various Projects as per Project plans and Commercial agreements. Track performance and manage Project management teams to ensure that operational objectives and production targets are safely met. Provide support, mentorship and guidance to Project management teams to resolve operational challenges.

Key Performance Areas

Overall Business Performance

•  Manage Commercial Contracts and establish meaningful professional relationships with Clients in conjunction with the Executive team.
•  Study commercial contracts in conjunction with the Commercial team to identify risks and opportunities.
•  Oversee the performance of various projects and ensure the profitable execution thereof in line with set profit margins.
•  Check monthly survey results across all projects before signing off with Clients.
•  Develop and implement remedial action plans for underperforming projects.
•  Check invoices before submission to Clients in conjunction with CCO & FD. Ensure that correct volumes and rates are invoiced.
•  Track budgets for Projects and Departments within area of responsibility.
•  Compile annual budgets for Projects and Departments within area of responsibility. Ensure that approved budgets are adhered to. Maintain positive cash flow.

Strategic management

•  Monitor Market trends to identify opportunities and threats in the business environment, in conjunction with the Executive Team.
•  Develop and implement strategic plans within area of expertise that:
  • aligns with the overall business objectives,
  • reduces risk & capitalize on opportunities.
•  Monitor progress and adherence to approved strategic plans.

Commercial & Legal

•  Conduct high level negotiations, discussions & correspondence with Clients & Suppliers in conjunction with the Executive Team.
•  Assist to draft & conclude Service level agreements, Commercial Contracts and Contractual Addendums.
•  Participate in commercial Tender Process as member of the Executive Team. Conduct thorough Project research prior to Tender and ensure that appropriate rates are charged during Tender stage reduce the risk of future losses due to “under tendering”. Compile volume profiles and appropriate resource allocation.
•  Assist CCO in resolving Commercial and Legal (Litigation) disputes.
•  Brief CEO & Executive team on all matters of importance in conjunction with the CCO.
•  Ensure that levels/limits of authority are adhered to within allocated Dept & area of responsibility.
•  Adhere to BBBEE principles to ensure that BBBEE Scorecard targets and Strategies are achieved.
•  Ensure Legal Compliance within area of responsibility, including but not limited to Legal Appointments in terms the MHSA.

 Health & Safety:

• Establish a strong Safety culture across all Operations.
• Monitor Safety Trends across projects and participate in formulation of action and improvement  plans as well as Safety Campaigns.
• Provide support during DMR audits & investigations.

Marketing & New business development

•  Track and attend Commercial Expos and act as Company Representative.
•  Arrange and attend high level meetings with prospective Clients & suppliers.
•  Assist to formulate and implement the Company’s marketing strategy.
•  Assist to create brand awareness and establish a professional Company image.
•  Ensure sustainable business growth.

Reporting

•  Compile and implement meaningful reports and dashboard systems. Present accurate, professional reports for area of responsibility during weekly, monthly and Ad Hoc internal management and/or high-level Client meetings.

Business systems, processes, policies & procedures

•  Analyse all applicable business systems and processes within area of responsibility to ensure efficiency and sound corporate governance.
•  Develop and implement effective, integrated systems to continuously track hourly, daily, weekly and monthly production performance and across all projects.
•  Develop and implement systems, process flows, policies and procedures as required.

Continuous/ Business Improvement

•  Ensure optimization of allocated resources across all projects:
• Favourable Mining conditions are maintained (Floor levels, Berms, Highwalls, Roads, etc.)
• Equipment damage limited and remedial action taken where damages occurred.
• Equipment availability & Utilization trends are achieved as per Industry trends and contractual obligations.

Cycle time studies are conducted continuously.

• Fuel caps are properly managed as per Tender allowable.
• Identify cost saving opportunities and implement CI Projects/ Project plans.

HR management function

•  Recruitment & Development: Ensure that designated Departments are adequately staffed, developed and retained in conjunction with the HR Team.
•  Reward systems: Participate in development and implementation of reward/ incentive systems.
•  Performance Management: Ensure that all subordinates have Job Descriptions and that performance is managed in accordance with set KPI’s.
•  HR Policies & procedures: Ensure that all HR Policies and Procedures are communicated to and observed by designated Departments.

Minimum Job Requirements:

•  BSc Degree in Mining Engineering, or at least N. Dip Mining Engineering.
•  Mine Manager’s Ticket (preferred) or at least Opencast Blasting certificate.
•  Must have at least 3-5 years’ experience in a similar position, or at least at General Manager/ Senior Contract Manager level, overseeing various Opencast Mining projects.
•  Proven track record: ability to maintain production outputs & execute Contracts profitably.
•  Excellent knowledge of Service Level Agreements, Tender processes & concluding Commercial Contracts.
•  Excellent knowledge of Earthmoving Equipment, resource management and all aspects of Opencast Mining (including production, mine planning & survey).
•  Advanced Computer Literacy (MS Office, Sage, Modelmaker Advantageous)
•  Strong numerical skills and ability to compile budgets and reports.
•  Excellent Leadership skills and ability to mentor & develop people.
•  Excellent negotiation skills & high level of attention to detail.
•  Assertive with excellent communication skills.

Values, abilities & behaviours

•  High level of integrity, honesty, accountability and commitment.
•  Willing to work long hours and ability to meet objectives and deadlines.
•  High level of Energy & ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
•  Willing to travel to projects in remote areas frequently in execution of responsibilities.
• Results orientated, driven and resilient.

Closing date: 15 March 2024