Huakan International Botswana (Pty) Ltd

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The Operations Manager is responsible for the systematic execution of Huakan’s mining and exploration portfolio in Botswana. This role ensures that complex field programs are transformed into streamlined, cost-effective, and safe operations. You will act as the operational bridge between the Botswana subsidiary and the Chinese parent group, ensuring international standards meet local regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Direct the end-to-end operations of exploration licenses, prioritizing resource allocation (personnel, machinery, and fuel) to meet drilling targets.
Synchronize project schedules with seasonal constraints (e.g., rainy season logistics) to ensure year-round efficiency.
Develop and refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that bridge Chinese corporate standards with Botswana’s mining industry best practices.
Serve as the primary driver for cross-cultural team synergy, ensuring seamless communication between expatriate technical experts and local Botswana staff.
Rigorously manage project budgets, focusing on reducing “non-productive time” (NPT) in field operations.
Conduct cost-benefit analyses on procurement (e.g., local vs. international sourcing) to maximize the economic return of each exploration phase.
Design and enforce a comprehensive Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) framework that exceeds the requirements of the Botswana Mines and Minerals Act.
Lead incident investigations and safety audits to maintain a “Zero Harm” culture across all remote project sites.
Manage critical contracts with drilling companies, geophysical consultants, and logistics providers, ensuring high service-level agreements (SLAs).
Resolve complex commercial disputes and operational bottlenecks to keep project momentum steady.
Synthesize raw field data into high-level performance analytics for the Board of Directors and Group Management.
Provide actionable insights on project “burn rates” and technical progress to support rapid executive decision-making.

Requirements

Logistical Mastery: Proven ability to manage supply chains in remote, semi-arid environments (like the Kalahari).
Financial Literacy: Strong command of project accounting and cost-control software.
Regulatory Knowledge: Deep familiarity with Botswana’s environmental (DEA) and mining (Department of Mines) permitting processes.