Vice President Operations - Gold Mining, West Africa

About the role

An established international gold mining company is appointing an experienced Vice President Operations for its mining operations in West Africa. This is a senior leadership role working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, General Managers and the wider executive team, combining technical mining expertise with commercial judgement and decisive leadership.

Key responsibilities

• Lead gold mining operations safely, efficiently and profitably, and work with the COO on operational strategy aligned with business objectives and production targets.
• Guide and oversee site General Managers and senior operational teams, holding them accountable for results.
• Drive improvements in safety, operational discipline, risk management and compliance.
• Oversee annual operating plans, production budgets, mine plans and operational improvement initiatives; monitor gold production, productivity, plant recovery, equipment availability, unit costs and efficiency.
• Provide technical oversight of underground mining (development, scheduling, ventilation, ground control, geotechnical risk) and integrate mining, processing, engineering, maintenance and technical services.
• Support mine development, expansion projects and new infrastructure, and manage operating and capital expenditure budgets.
• Review equipment performance, maintenance strategies and asset management, and establish robust operational reporting.
• Conduct regular operational reviews and site visits, and mentor General Managers and senior leaders.
• Build relationships with government, regulators, local communities and contractors, and ensure compliance with mining legislation, environmental regulations and international standards.

Required profile

• At least 20 years' experience in the mining industry, including senior site or regional operational leadership.
• Proven track record at General Manager, Regional Operations Manager, VP Operations or COO level.
• Strong underground mining experience is essential; open-pit experience is highly advantageous.
• Experience in international mining jurisdictions, particularly West Africa, and in multicultural environments.
• Ideal background: established international gold mining company, multinational mining group or major operation, with progression into regional or corporate leadership.

Required skills

• Understanding of the full gold mining value chain: mining, mineral processing, engineering, maintenance and technical services.
• Financial and commercial acumen, managing significant operating budgets and capital expenditure.
• Mine planning, production scheduling and resource utilisation.
• Health, safety, environmental management and responsible mining practices.