Ivindo Iron - CEO

Ivindo Iron is a Joint Venture between Fortescue Metals Group and the Africa Transformation and Industrialization Fund (ATIF) on the Belinga Iron Project.

The Project is located in the Republic of Gabon, Africa, and is potentially one of the world’s largest undeveloped, high-grade hematite deposits.

An exciting opportunity exists for a highly motivated CEO to lead our in-country team to develop the Belinga Iron Ore Project.

Position Title:  CEO

Work Location: Libreville, Gabon, Africa

Reporting line: Ivindo Iron SA Board

Role overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to join our company in the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ivindo Iron SA.

Initial focus is to ensure successful implementation of the Pilot Production Phase (PPP) - a smaller scale mining operation with production commencing in 2023 and ramping up to 2 – 5 mtp during the next several years.  During this period, exploration drilling and Feasibility Study will be completed for a much larger scale operation, which the CEO will be responsible for.

Key responsibilities include:

• Establish Ivindo Iron operations in Gabon in safe and compliant manner, embedding company values and culture in every part of the Project.
• Ensure all team members are focused, aligned and working collaboratively to set up the company properly in Gabon to deliver Pilot Production Phase and future phases of work.
• Ensure all aspects of operational readiness for early production are in place including operations (mining, processing), transport (road, rail), port handling, shipping and hiring required personnel in country.
• Build and lead Ivindo Iron in-country team and structure, resourcing the Project appropriately as it grows.  Responsibilities include:
  • Health and safety
  • Environmental studies & permitting
  • Community relations
  • Training of local employees to fulfil roles
  • Operating budget development and tracking/forecasting costs
  • Product strategy, quality and marketing
  • Legal compliance and reporting
  • Operating and ramp up strategies including
    • Mining
    • Metallurgy / processing
    • Road logistics, road rectification and maintenance oversight
    • Rail loading and logistics
    • Port operations and ship loading
    • Camp management
    • Operational logistics
    • All corporate support services
• Work with Fortescue’s Construction Manager and Projects Delivery Team to optimise project delivery plan and schedule, and transition rapidly into operations.  
• Proactively build strong relationships with JV partners and external stakeholders, including Government engagement and NGO’s

Qualification and Experience:

• Bilingual English / French both written and verbal is essential.
• University degree and qualifications
• Minimum of 15 years experience in executive leadership roles and developing projects in Africa
• Strong working knowledge of the OHADA legal framework and accounting system.
• Contract management, commercial acumen, negotiation skills.
• Strong experience with stakeholder engagement including dealing with the highest levels of Government.
• Track record of providing effective leadership and creating proactive culture in newly formed teams/company.