View more 6 years ago
Underground Project & Operations Manager
Company: dallaglio
Location: Zimbabwe
Closing Date: 30 July 2026
Company: dallaglio
Location: Zimbabwe
Closing Date: 30 July 2026
Job Description Job Title: Underground Project & Operations Manager Job Type: Full-time Job Purpose The Underground Project & Operations Manager is accountable for the safe, efficient and cost-effective delivery of the Future Shafts Project, comprising the Twin Decline developments at Peerless and Pickstone. The role combines the responsibilities of Project Manager and Underground Mining Manager, with full accountability spanning portal establishment, decline development, underground infrastructure installation and commissioning through to the establishment of sustainable underground production.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Project Management
- Closing Date: 2026-07-30
Key Responsibilities
- Lead planning, execution and commissioning of the Peerless and Pickstone Twin Decline Projects.
- Deliver all projects safely, on schedule and within the approved capital budget.
- Develop and maintain detailed execution plans, implementation programmes and critical path schedules.
- Drive integration between Mining, Engineering, Technical Services, Supply Chain, Finance and HR.
- Provide full operational leadership for all underground activities including decline development, development ends, ore pass construction, pump chambers, ventilation raises, underground workshops, refuge chambers, explosives magazines, conveyor excavations and loading stations.
- Manage the transition from project execution to full underground production.
- Review and approve weekly and monthly development plans against the approved critical path.
- Ensure development consistently advances ahead of production requirements.
- Ensure timely commissioning of all systems required for first ore, including ventilation, dewatering, power reticulation, compressed air, water reticulation, ore handling, communications and grade control.
- Maintain full accountability for capital budget control, procurement coordination, contractor performance and commercial compliance.
- Provide visible safety leadership and maintain a Zero Harm culture across all project and operational activities.
- Lead risk assessments, critical control verification and incident investigations for all areas of accountability.
- Ensure all work is executed in compliance with approved mine designs, development standards, ground support requirements, ventilation strategies, geotechnical recommendations and survey standards.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mining Engineering (essential).
- Mine Manager’s Certificate of Competency – Zimbabwe or recognised equivalent (essential).
- Blasting Certificate and a valid Driver’s Licence (essential).
- MBA or Project Management qualification (PMP, PRINCE2 or equivalent) is desirable.
- Minimum of 15 years’ underground mining experience, with at least 10 years in senior underground management.
- Proven track record in delivering major underground capital projects on schedule and within budget.
- Demonstrated experience transitioning underground development projects into sustainable production.
- Strong contractor management and commercial experience in a mining environment.
- Gold mining experience is required.
- Preferred experience in:
- Twin decline development.
- Narrow reef mining.
- Mechanised underground mining.
- Zimbabwean mining operations.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
About the Company
Lorenzo Bruno Nero Dallaglio is an English retired rugby union player. He is a former captain of England, and a 2016 inductee of the World Rugby Hall of Fame.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific qualifications or certifications are essential for an Underground Project & Operations Manager in Zimbabwe?
Typically, a degree in Mining Engineering or a related field is required, often coupled with a full blasting license and a Mine Manager's Certificate of Competency recognized in Zimbabwe. Extensive practical experience in underground mining operations and project management is highly valued. Expertise in safety regulations and operational optimization is also critical.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Underground Project & Operations Manager in a Zimbabwean mining context?
This role involves overseeing all underground operations, ensuring safety, productivity, and adherence to production targets and project timelines. Daily duties include managing teams, optimizing resource allocation, budget control, and liaising with stakeholders to achieve operational excellence.
What is the typical work culture like for a management role in the Zimbabwean mining sector, and what are the expectations regarding hours or leadership style?
The work culture often emphasizes strong leadership, adherence to safety protocols, and a results-driven approach, with long hours sometimes required to meet operational demands. A collaborative yet decisive leadership style is generally expected, fostering teamwork while driving efficiency and compliance.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for an Underground Project & Operations Manager in Zimbabwe?
Successful managers in this role can progress to General Manager, Mine Manager, or even regional operational leadership positions within larger mining groups. Further career advancement may involve specializing in strategic project development or moving into executive roles within the broader mining industry across Africa.
What kind of benefits package, such as medical aid, pension, and leave, can one typically expect for a senior management role in Zimbabwean mining?
Senior roles typically come with comprehensive benefits including private medical aid, a robust pension scheme, and generous annual leave allocations. Housing allowances or company accommodation, and a company vehicle, are also common perks for such management positions.
What do Zimbabwean employers typically look for in an application for this senior management role, and what's the best way to apply?
Employers seek proven experience in managing complex underground operations, strong leadership capabilities, and a demonstrable track record of achieving production and safety targets. Submitting a detailed CV highlighting relevant experience and qualifications, often through professional networks or direct company websites, is the most effective approach.