PURPOSE OF THE JOB
To lead and grow AECI Mining’s Metallurgy business across the Rest of World region, with full accountability for strategy development and execution, commercial performance, operational excellence, and EBITDA delivery. The role is responsible for driving market growth, leading sales and go-to-market activities, overseeing operational and technical functions, and ensuring the effective development and delivery of innovative metallurgical chemical solutions that create sustainable value for customers and AECI.
Job Summary
- Employer: AECI Mining
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Management
- Closing Date: 2026-10-16
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the Metallurgy business strategy for the Rest of World region, aligned to AECI Mining’s overall strategic objectives
- Identify and capture growth opportunities through market expansion, product portfolio development, innovation, and strategic partnerships
- Translate strategic objectives into actionable business plans with clear financial and operational targets
- Ensure effective execution of strategic initiatives and monitor delivery against agreed milestones
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence, and sustainable profitable growth
- Lead all sales and go-to-market activities across the defined geography
- Deliver profitable revenue growth, market share expansion, and improved customer penetration
- Identify, evaluate, and pursue new business opportunities, market segments, products, and applications
- Develop and approve business cases in accordance with AECI Group commercial governance requirements
- Establish and implement commercial strategies, pricing frameworks, and value propositions that support business growth and profitability
- Ensure effective management of major customer accounts and strategic commercial relationships
- Maintain full accountability for regional business performance and EBITDA delivery.
- Develop and manage annual operating plans, budgets, forecasts, and capital requirements.
- Ensure optimal allocation and utilization of financial, human, manufacturing, technical, and commercial resources.
- Drive margin improvement, cost optimization, working capital efficiency, and cash generation initiatives.
- Ensure appropriate financial controls, governance, and risk management practices are implemented and maintained
- Provide leadership and oversight of operational activities within the region to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient business performance
- Ensure alignment between commercial, operational, supply chain, technical service, and R&D activities
- Drive implementation of operational excellence initiatives and best practices
- Ensure products, services, and technical support consistently meet customer requirements and business objectives
- Support innovation, product development, and technical solution delivery to strengthen AECI’s competitive position
- Develop and maintain strategic relationships with customers, distributors, suppliers, industry bodies, and other key stakeholders
- Build strong engagement with decision-makers at multiple organizational levels within customer and partner organizations
- Represent the Metallurgy business in regional and industry forums, promoting AECI’s capabilities and reputation
- Foster collaborative relationships that identify growth opportunities and facilitate the resolution of commercial and operational challenges
- Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction, retention, and long-term partnership development
- Monitor and evaluate business performance against strategic, financial, commercial, and operational objectives
- Establish and track key performance indicators and implement corrective actions where required
- Ensure compliance with AECI governance requirements, legal obligations, and relevant regulatory standards
- Drive a culture of accountability, performance management, and continuous improvement
- Identify and manage business risks and opportunities to support sustainable growth and value creation
- Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing regional team
- Create a culture that promotes safety, accountability, collaboration, innovation, and customer focus
- Ensure appropriate succession planning, talent development, and capability-building initiatives are in place
- Set clear performance expectations and provide coaching and support to enable individual and team success
- Champion AECI values and leadership behaviours across the business
Requirements
- BSc/BEng/BTech in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mining Engineering or a related field
- MSc/MEng in Metallurgy, Materials Science related discipline will be advantageous
- MBA will be advantageous
- Masters in a related field will be advantageous
- 15-20+ years of progressive experience in Metallurgy, Mineral Processing, Extractive Metallurgy, Smelting, refining or related industrial operations
- At least 5-10 years in Senior Management / General Management leadership roles
- Proven track record of delivering sustainable commercial growth and sales excellence across diverse markets
- Proven experience working across multiple countries or international operations
- Experience managing or supporting multinational metallurgical operations and geographically dispersed teams
- Demonstrated ability to transfer metallurgical and operational best practices between international sites
- Experience working with international clients, joint-venture partners, technology providers, consultants, regulators and suppliers
- Exposure to different regulatory, labour, cultural and operating environments
- Experience implementing international best practices and globally recognised operational standards
- Willingness and ability to travel internationally and work across different time zones and cultures
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: jobs.aeciworld.com
REF Code: 2109
About the Company
AECI Mining operates in Botswana through its key subsidiaries, AECI Mining Explosives Botswana (Pty) Ltd and AECI Mining Chemicals Botswana (Pty) Ltd. Based in Gaborone, these entities provide a comprehensive suite of products crucial for the nation's mining industry. The company specialises in advanced mining explosives and essential chemicals, supporting the full value chain from raw material processing to blasting solutions. AECI Mining often engages in a collaborative three-way partnership with its customers, delivering integrated and tailored support to enhance operational efficiency and safety. This strategic presence underscores its commitment to Botswana's significant mining landscape.
Innovative blasting and chemical solutions, empowering Botswana's mining sector.
Website: https://www.aeciworld.com/mining
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a General Manager Metallurgy role in Botswana?
Most employers require a degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, often with postgraduate qualifications preferred. Professional registration with the Engineers Registration Board of Botswana (ERB) is usually essential. Additional certifications in mining safety, project management, or leadership are highly valued.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a General Manager Metallurgy?
You will oversee metallurgical operations, optimize extraction processes, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Daily tasks include managing technical teams, reviewing production reports, and liaising with mine management. Strategic planning and budget oversight are also core responsibilities.
How does workplace culture and management style differ in Botswana's mining sector?
Botswana's mining sector emphasizes hierarchical respect, collaborative decision-making, and strong relationships with local communities. Employers value punctuality, formal communication protocols, and demonstrated commitment to citizen empowerment initiatives. Understanding Setswana cultural norms and local labor laws will strengthen your effectiveness.
What career progression opportunities exist for metallurgy professionals in Botswana?
Strong performers can advance to regional or group-level technical roles, operations director positions, or executive leadership. Experience in Botswana's well-regulated mining environment is highly transferable across Southern Africa. Some professionals transition into consulting or government advisory roles later in their careers.
What benefits are typically included in senior management packages for mining roles in Botswana?
Packages usually include comprehensive medical aid, pension or provident fund contributions, and generous annual leave allowances. Housing allowances, vehicle benefits, and performance bonuses are common at this level. Expatriate roles may include additional allowances, though citizen appointments are increasingly prioritized.
How should I apply for senior metallurgy roles in Botswana, and what do employers prioritize?
Apply through company career portals, LinkedIn, or established recruitment firms specializing in mining. Employers prioritize demonstrable leadership experience, track record in process optimization, and familiarity with Southern African mining regulations. Strong references and proof of local professional registration significantly strengthen your application.
