A Mine General Manager oversees all aspects of mining operations, ensuring productivity, safety, and profitability. They provide strategic leadership while managing operational teams, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder relationships.
GM’s typically start their day reviewing operational reports and safety incidents. They conduct regular site inspections, attend management meetings, review production data, address emerging issues, and communicate with corporate leadership. Their responsibilities include making critical decisions about resource allocation, equipment deployment, and production planning to meet targets while maintaining safety standards.
How much does a mine GM earn in Australia?
Mine General Manager compensation in Australia generally ranges from AUD 300,000 to AUD 500,000+ annually for established operations, with some roles at large mines or for experienced professionals exceeding AUD 600,000 when including bonus structures. Most of these roles are hired through an Executive Search process.
The exact compensation depends on several factors:
- Size and profitability of the mining operation
- Commodity type (gold, iron ore, coal, etc.)
- Location (remote locations often command higher salaries)
- Experience level and track record
- Company size and structure/li>
- Additional responsibilities (regional oversight, multiple sites)
Package components typically include:
- Base salary
- Performance bonuses (often 20-40% of base salary)
- Share options or long-term incentives
- Superannuation contributions above the statutory minimum
- Housing allowances or company housing
- FIFO arrangements with additional allowances
- Company vehicle
- Health insurance and other benefits
What qualifications do you need to get there?
Most General Managers possess at least a bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering, Geology, Metallurgy, or related fields. Many have advanced degrees like MBAs or specialised mining management qualifications. Industry certifications such as statutory mine manager credentials are typically required. Successful candidates usually have 10-15+ years of progressive mining experience, including several years in senior operational roles.
How do I develop a career path to a Mine General Manager position?
Career progression typically begins with technical roles in geology, engineering, or operations before advancing to supervisory positions like shift supervisor or section manager. From there, professionals move into department management (e.g. Production Manager, Technical Services Manager) before becoming Mine Managers or Operations Managers. The final step is promotion to Mine General Manager, often after gaining experience across multiple sites or commodities.
Interested to learn more about what executive search is and what is involved? Read this article.
Or if you’re curious to find out how long an executive recruitment process takes, you’ll enjoy this article.
What skills are most important for the role?
Beyond technical mining knowledge, successful Mine General Managers need strong leadership abilities, excellent communication skills, financial acumen, and strategic thinking capabilities. They must balance operational demands with corporate objectives while managing diverse stakeholders including workforce, regulatory bodies, and community representatives. Crisis management skills and the ability to make decisions under pressure are crucial in this high-responsibility role.
