Head of Security

The Security Manager is responsible for ensuring the security and safety of the mining site, which includes both the underground operations and the surrounding rural areas. As this mine is located in a remote area of South Africa, the role will also involve managing relations with local rural communities and addressing external security threats. The ideal candidate will be skilled in crisis management, conflict resolution, and security strategy, and will be sensitive to the challenges posed by rural communities.

Key Responsibilities :

Security Management :

• Site Security : Oversee and manage the security operations at the underground mine site, ensuring the protection of personnel, valuable assets, infrastructure, and equipment.
• Surveillance and Monitoring : Ensure effective operation of surveillance equipment (CCTV, alarms, and sensors) to monitor critical areas, including entrances, exits, processing plants, and restricted zones.
• Access Control : Maintain strict control over personnel and vehicle access to the site, ensuring that only authorized individuals enter restricted areas.
• Risk Assessment & Threat Management : Conduct regular security assessments to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities, particularly in the context of remote, rural locations, and develop mitigation strategies.
• Emergency Response : Develop and maintain emergency response plans for various scenarios, including natural disasters (e.g., floods, fires), security breaches, or underground mining incidents.
• Security Personnel Management : Lead and manage a team of security staff, providing ongoing training, ensuring compliance with policies, and evaluating performance to ensure security objectives are met.

Rural Relations & Community Engagement :

• Community Relations : Build and foster relationships with local rural communities surrounding the mining operation, including landowners, traditional leaders, and community groups.
• Conflict Resolution : Address and mediate disputes between the mine and local residents, focusing on issues such as land access, resource sharing, and local employment.
• Cultural Awareness : Demonstrate an understanding of and respect for local customs, traditions, and social structures to foster trust and cooperation between the mine and surrounding communities.
• Local Security Issues : Monitor and assess any rural security risks or external threats to the mine, such as illegal mining, trespassing, livestock theft, or damage to infrastructure.
• Local Infrastructure & Access : Oversee the security of access roads, local supply routes, and transportation channels to ensure safe and secure logistics, including during transportation of employees or materials.

Compliance & Reporting :

• Legal & Regulatory Compliance : Ensure compliance with South African security laws, industry regulations, and best practices. This includes following protocols set by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), as well as ensuring adherence to labour and environmental laws.
• Incident Reporting & Documentation : Maintain detailed records of security incidents, investigations, and resolutions. Provide regular reports to senior management and external authorities when required.
• Investigation of Security Breaches : Lead investigations into any security breaches or incidents, and take appropriate corrective action to prevent recurrence.

Skills & Qualifications :

• Education : Bachelors degree in Security Management, Criminal Justice, Risk Management, or a related field. Professional certifications in security management or emergency response will be advantageous.
• Experience : Minimum of 10+ years of experience in security management, with a strong focus on mining environments or remote operations in South Africa. Experience in rural security management and working with communities in remote areas will be highly beneficial. Experience in handling conflict resolution and managing relations with local communities and authorities.
• Key Skills : Strong understanding of South African mining security challenges, rural issues, and community dynamics. Familiarity with South African security legislation and regulations (e.g., Occupational Health and Safety Act, Mine Health and Safety Act). Ability to lead a team and effectively communicate security strategies and protocols. Crisis management and decision-making abilities in a high-pressure environment. Strong interpersonal skills with an emphasis on community engagement and conflict mediation.
• Languages : Fluency in English is required; knowledge of local South African languages (e.g., Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans) is advantageous, especially for community relations.
• Physical Requirements : Ability to work in a physically demanding and remote environment. Willingness to work extended hours and travel to rural areas as necessary.