Introduction

A dynamic and fast-growing international concern in the mining and mineral processing sector based in Rosebank (also has offices in the UK) is seeking a highly seasoned Environmental & Social (E&S) Specialist to lead the development and implementation of environmental and social management systems for its Phalaborwa based mineral processing project.

This is a critical role with primary responsibility for delivering the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), securing all required permits and licences, and managing engagement with regulatory authorities and the local community. Engagement with current operations is also needed to determine the company’s exposure to historical liabilities.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the project meets both national regulatory requirements and international good practice.

Duties & Responsibilities

. ESIA Delivery and Consultant Management (Primary Focus)

Lead the full delivery of the ESIA process, through to final approval.
Manage and coordinate external consultants, ensuring high-quality and timely outputs.
Ensure the ESIA is aligned with South African regulatory requirements and international standards where appropriate.
Review and integrate technical studies (e.g. biodiversity, water, social, heritage) into a coherent ESIA submission.
Act as the internal focal point for all ESIA-related matters.

2. Permitting and Licensing (Primary Focus)

Take full responsibility for identifying, planning and securing all environmental and social permits and licences required for project development and operation.
Develop and maintain a permitting and licensing roadmap, including timelines and critical dependencies.
Coordinate submission of all permit applications and supporting documentation.
Track progress and proactively manage risks to ensure timely approvals.

3. Regulatory Engagement (Primary Focus)

Act as the primary interface with regulators and government authorities
Build and maintain strong, constructive relationships with relevant national and provincial regulatory bodies.
Lead ongoing engagement to facilitate approvals and resolve regulatory issues.
Represent the company in formal consultations, technical meetings and site visits.

4. Environmental & Social Management Systems

Develop and implement a fit-for-purpose Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) aligned with project risks and stage of development, and investor expectations and standards.
Ensure systems are proportionate, practical and aligned with regulatory, operational and investor requirements.
Support the transition from ESIA to operational environmental and social management.

5. Stakeholder Engagement and Social Performance

Lead stakeholder mapping and analysis to identify key stakeholders and risk areas.
Develop and implement a Stakeholder Engagement Plan.
Initiate and lead ongoing engagement with local communities and stakeholders.
Establish and manage a grievance mechanism in line with good international practice.

6. Historical Liability Engagement

Lead stakeholder engagement and analysis to identify historical liability scope, to determine current status of existing site, and inform ownership agreements.

Desired Experience & Qualification

South African national (essential)
Matric
Graduate/Post graduate Degree in Environmental Management, Social Anthropology, Engineering or relevant field
7- 10 years’ experience in environmental and social management within mining, natural resources or infrastructure projects.

Package & Remuneration

R1.2 – R1.5 million CTC (depending on qual and exp)

Propel Personnel

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Environmental & Social/ESG Specialist: Mining/Mineral Processing