Exploration Director Mining and Mineral Exploration

Exploration Director – Mining, Mineral Exploration – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Full time, On site

The Exploration Director will oversee exploration strategy, technical operations, regulatory compliance, and team leadership. The role transforms geological data into bankable studies that support major investment decisions and future mining development.

• Lead a multi‑year exploration strategy and annual budgets.
• Oversee drill programs, sampling protocols, and assay coordination.
• Deliver technical reports aligned with JORC and NI 43‑101 standards.
• Manage land access negotiations, JV discussions and license agreements.
• Ensure full compliance with environmental and mining regulations.
• Coordinate with refining teams to validate metallurgical characteristics.
• Build and mentor a multidisciplinary exploration team.
• Maintain strong relationships with MIM, SGS and key stakeholders.

• Master’s degree in Geology, Earth Sciences, or related field.
• 15+ years in mineral exploration, including 5+ years in senior leadership.
• Proven success in discovering and defining economic gold resources.
• Strong understanding of Saudi geological frameworks and mining regulations.
• Expertise in drill programme management and contractor coordination.
• Proficiency in geological modelling and GIS tools.
• Experience preparing reports compliant with JORC / NI 43‑101.
• Fluency in English;
  Arabic is an advantage.

• PhD in Economic Geology or related specialization.
• Experience in JV or farm‑in agreements.
• Involvement in feasibility studies leading to mine development.
• Strong network within the Saudi mining ecosystem.

• Geological modelling (Leapfrog, Micromine, Datamine).
• GIS (ArcGIS, QGIS).
• Geochemical and geophysical survey interpretation.
• Budgeting and financial modelling for exploration projects.
• Knowledge of RC, diamond core and reverse‑circulation drilling.

• Strategic thinking and commercial acumen.
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder‑management skills.
• High commitment to safety and environmental compliance.
• Ability to lead diverse teams in remote field environments.
• Excellent communication with technical and non‑technical audiences.

• Delivery of a complete exploration strategy approved by leadership within 12 months.
• Acquisition of new high‑potential exploration licences.
• Execution of drill programmes with zero lost‑time injuries.
• Delivery of a maiden resource estimate JORC compliant within 12 months.
• Strong regulatory relationships established.
• Development of a training and succession plan for the geology team.