Senior Manager Production Supervisor
Resume:
* * * * * A r n o L a G r a n g e
Andries Mathys La Grange (Arno)
Expat Snr Specialist Drill & Blast – Underground / Opencast Production Superintendent / Production Supervisor / Manager Mining / Opencast Site Manager / Mining Superintendent Contact Details:
Tel: +27-84-240-**** - South Africa
+260-***-***-*** - Zambia
Email ****.*********@*****.***
*.********@*******.***
Address: South Africa – Middelburg
ID: 750**********
Nationality: South African
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnolagrangeblastingmanager/ Career Profile:
I am an experienced Expat Opencast / Underground Mining, Superintendent, Production Load and Haul, Drill and Blast Manager with 23 years working experience in the Opencast Mining Sector. Results orientated “hands on” mining professional with senior leadership roles in the minerals industry with a track record in commencing and successfully operating medium and large size open pit mines in three different countries on the African continent
(South Africa, Democratic Rep of the Congo and Tanzania), and in multiple commodities. Focused on positive safety performance, practical operating systems and developing staff so that goals can be exceeded. I have extensive knowledge on the Management of a mine site, working in different mining environments and mining services.
I am a spontaneous idealist, creative, lively and open minded. I enjoy working with colourful diverse groups of people. I enjoy meeting and working with new people, continuously collecting unique experiences. I am currently working as Superintendent Drill and Blast Open Pit on the Lumwana Expansion Project (Barrick). I am currently looking for a position where I will be able to add value to the organisation by utilizing my knowledge and applicable experience gained thus far.
I specialise in Production Mining, Mining Operations, Opencast Mining, Mine Planning, Mine Management, Site Management, Drill and Blast and Operation Management. 2 P a g e A r n o L a G r a n g e
Skills include but not limited to.
• Ensuring Health and Safety of people under my supervision/management
• Production Mining, Drill and Blast, Load and Haul
• Efficient operation of the drill and blast planning to promote the continuous improvement of processes and practices building the team's knowledge of safe and effective down-hole blast practices
• Proactive support of continuous improvement measures to deliver clear efficiency and cost benefits.
• Ensuring all production targets are met (budget, forecasts, quality, etc)
• Oversees the production process and assists with drawing up of the production schedule
• Production related activities (Drilling and Blasting, Primary Crushing)
• Do Long and short-term scheduling of the pit and underground operations
• Manage contractors and projects
• Training and development of employees in areas of responsibility
• Manage and coordinate Production.
Trade Skills:
Underground Mining Mining Rehabilitation Mine closure Health and Safety Management Operations Management Risk Assessment Project Planning Underground Drill and Blast Bulk Earthworks Crushing Screening Mining Operations Mine Planning Life of Mine (LOM) Drilling Nationalization Blasting Production Management HIRAC Site Management Production Mining Mining Sector Skills:
Opencast Mining Underground Drill and Blast
Coal Gold Iron Ore Diamond Copper
Professional Working Experienc
Barrick Gold Corporation – Lumwana Super pit Expansion - Zambia Superintendent - Open cast production mining and Drill and Blast I was head hunted and joined Barrick in October 2024 as Superintendent Opencast mining as well as leading the Drill and Blast department on the Lumwana Super pit expansion. Currently mining 1,2 Million tons per day and pumping 178 tons of explosives per day. Drilling 9000 meters per day to ensure broken stock is sufficient for the Super and Ultra class mining fleet.
3 P a g e A r n o L a G r a n g e
AngloGoldAshanti – Tanzania
Technical Services, Grade Control, Development and Blast Hole Drilling Senior Specialist Drill and Blast
Oct 2020 - Current
Project: Geita Gold Mine (Stope and Developement Drill and Blast) 4 x Jumbo drill rigs, 3 x Solo drill rigs, 1 x Cubex drill rig, 2 x Normid uphole and face charging units Overview: I Was approached by the MD of AGA in 2020 to join and lead the Underground Drill and Blast department to align and improve the drill and blast operations according to international standards. In the last 22 Months we have managed to reduce $/m from $15 to an monthly average of $4.09. The department has also grown from 4 personnel to 8 with 3 being promoted to higher position grade as well as welcoming 2 interns to permanent positions
Responsibilities:
Senior Specialist Drill and Blast – UG Operations
Develop and manage blast designs based on the blast master to deliver the 28-day plan Ensure the optimal compliance with operational plans and work instructions
Conduct compliance monitoring for drill and blast activities to ensure that the 28-day plan is met Management of the down-the-hole blast service provided by the Blast Supplier to ensure the provisions of the contract are followed
QA/ QC of the blast, design vs actual Report any significant deviation from the operational plans to the Mining Manager
Implement and deliver compliance with site HSE&C Policies, management systems and processes within the mine. Proactive support of continuous improvement measures to deliver clear efficiency and cost benefits
Build and Improve team talent & capability within the Mining team to deliver the budget
Build & Optimise Asset Capacity Monitors the production process in line with set targets ensuring strict adherence to plan compliance
Work with the Mining Contractor in line with the Alliance Charter and Business objectives to build the Alliance relationships. Provide insight on the selection of mining equipment, reviews new product plans and discusses equipment needs and modifications
Commercial acumen to operate the D&B as business
Ensures adherence to policies, standards and procedures in all areas of operations
Conduct drill and blast technical reviews with Geotechnical department to optimise wall control designs. Legal responsibility as per the Mine, Health and Safety Act
Implementing and ensuring compliance with Health, Safety and environmental standards
Managing and controlling costs
Ensuring all production targets are met (budget, forcasts, quality, etc)
Continuous improvement initiatives address productivity, costs, and DB processes
Participate in business improvement initiatives
Provide strategic and change leadership to the Production Team, including contractors
Training and development of employees in areas of responsibility
Perform all related administration
4 P a g e A r n o L a G r a n g e
Capital Drilling – Tanzania
Technical Services, Grade Control and Blast Hole
Production Drill and Blast Manager
Jan 2015 – Mar 2020
Project: Geita Gold Mine (Blast Hole and Grade Control Drilling) 7 x Atlas Copco DML Blast hole drill rig, 4 x D65 Atlas Copco Blast Hole drill rig, 2 x EDM 2000 Grade Control Rig.
Overview: Started working as a Production Supervisor promoted to Production Drill and Blast Manager within less than 1 year.
Head of Drilling and Blasting operations
Responsibilities:
Production Drill and Blast Manager:
Efficient operation of the drill and blast planning to promote the continuous improvement of processes and practices building the team's knowledge of safe and effective down-hole blast practices
Ensure the optimal compliance with operational plans and work instructions
Warrant efficient operation of the drilling fleet by monitoring key performance measures and sustaining continuous improvement processes
Management of the down-the-hole blast service provided by the Blast Supplier to ensure the provisions of the contract are followed
Development of the Drill/ Blast and Contract Management planning, reporting system
Report any significant deviation from the operational plans to the Mining Manager
Create a proactive and engaging team culture and lead them towards exceptional results
Proactive support of continuous improvement measures to deliver clear efficiency and cost benefits.
Oversees the production process and assists with drawing up of the production schedule
Ensures all work is effectively planned, resourced, and undertaken in a safe and cost effective manner
Monitors the production process in line with set targets ensuring strict adherence to plan compliance
Monitors product standards and implements a quality control program, reviews reports and statistics to plan and modify mining activities
Provides insight on the selection of mining equipment, reviews new product plans and discusses equipment needs and modifications
Implements and ensures that methods and procedures are in place for optimal asset utilization
Ensures adherence to policies, standards and procedures in all areas of operations
Investigates non-conformance to mining activities, identifies areas for improvement and implement solutions.
Legal responsibility as per the Mine, Health and Safety Act.
Implementing and ensuring compliance with Health, Safety and environmental standards
Managing and controlling costs
Ensuring all production targets are met (budget, forcasts, quality, etc)
Oversee rehabilitation operations
Participate in business improvement initiatives
Provide strategic and change leadership to the Production Team, including contractors
Align strategy to customer business strategy
Production related activities (Drilling and Blasting, Primary Crushing)
Do Long and short-term scheduling of the pit.
Manage contractors and projects
Training and development of employees in areas of responsibility
Manage and coordinate Production.
Remain in the forefront of latest developments in the Opencast Mining industry
Evaluate technological developments and new processes in Opencast Mining
Develop, align, approve and implement Opencast Mining policies, management standards, procedures, protocols, guidelines and toolkits at departmental level
Lead and manage the Drill and Blast department
5 P a g e A r n o L a G r a n g e
Perform all related administration
Compile monthly reports on all relevant matters
Assist in developing and managing mine, waste dumps and stockpile designs Production Supervisor:
Safe achievement of production and quality targets in line with client requirements
Accurate, timely administration and record keeping
Competent, motivated and positive team
Stakeholder engagement
Section compliance with SHEQ and client standards, policies and procedures
Cost containment
Effective self-management and alignment with client values and leadership initiatives Achievements:
Safety Award (AngloGoldAshanti 6 Years LTi free operation)
Improved hole success rate by 35%
Enabled client to meet stringent blast hole production not previously attainable
Improved hole stability, enabling holes to progress that would otherwise have been abandoned
Exceeded client expectations
Delivered cost savings to client by reducing drill and blast times, consumables and rig burn rates 6 P a g e A r n o L a G r a n g e
Trollope Mining – Opencast Coal Mining
Opencast Mining, Crushing, Screening, Rehabilitation, Bulk Earthworks, Opencast Site Manager / Opencast Manager Mining
Feb 2009 – Jan 2015
Project: Bakwena Platinum: Production Mining
Overview: Relief Project Manager
Project: Exxaro- Groote Geluk (Exarro) Ellisras: Bench 12 Project (Boxcut) Site Manager Overview: Opencast Manager - Started the Bench 12 Project (Boxcut). Included new staff employment, management/operation of the site
Project: Exxaro- Tshikondeni Coal in Venda
Overview: Opencast Manager - Mine closure – duration of 14 months Project: Sumo Collieries
Overview: Opencast Manager – Opencast Production Mining Responsibilities:
Ensure that quarries, pits and opencast sites operate successfully.
Oversee all operations, both on site and in the office, manage staff, coordinate production and monitor all site systems.
Utilized his knowledge of extraction and processing systems with excellent interpersonal and management skills to ensure the profitability of opencast mining sites
Check that the opencast mining production levels are maintained safely to schedule
Balance sales and output
Alter the opencast mining production system in accordance with the materials required
Performance manage the production process and set and monitor targets
Provide the owner company with information and statistics on the opencast mining performance
Develop links with local groups and organisations
Manage and regulate the opencast mining budget
Maintain up-to-date records and deal with paperwork
Ensure that key government Health and Safety legislation (Quarries Regulations 1999 and Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Quarries) Regulations 2008) is implemented throughout the site
Keep up to date with relevant government legislation and industry developments
Develop inspection systems and checklists
Write development proposals and reports
Manage and recruit staff.
Closely monitor all areas of the opencast mine to ensure that extraction and processing work is carried out to the highest standard
Provide active leadership and management of safety processes and culture to minimise risk in all operations activities
Liaise with staff on site and deal with any technical or staffing challenges that arise
Undertake regular site inspections and risk assessments in order to comply with all health and safety regulations
Examine the materials produced to ensure that a high quality of product is maintained
Assess equipment and production material levels
Order new items as required
Check that all vehicles on site are maintained to a good standard.
Control and manage an open pit mine
Long and short term training strategies
Control and management of construction and infrastructure.
Maintenance of administration including payroll, reports and contracts
Developing and implementation of Project planning and cost control system
Conduct Training Courses for all new mining staff as required 7 P a g e A r n o L a G r a n g e
Sentula (MegaCube Mining / Scharrighuisen)– Opencast Mining Bulk Earth Moving, Support Services and Exploration Drilling Production Manager and Site Superintendent
Feb 2004 – Jan 2009
Project: Vanggatfontein (Keaton Mining)
Overview: Site Manager: Opencast Box Cut.
Project: Khutala Colliery (BHP Billiton)
Overview: Production Foreman promoted to Mining Site Manager Project: Kwaggafontein (Exxaro) Rehabilitation
Overview: Mining Site Manager and Rehabilitation
Responsibilities:
Production Manager and Site Superintendent:
Responsible for planning, organising and supervising the activities of a mine icluding Forecasts, Budgets, Costs.
Responsible for planning future mine production
Oversee the development and tunnelling of the mine
Checking the quality of stone, rock and minerals and inspecting the mine for danger.
Carry out generic management duties, such as hiring staff, organising staff training, overseeing financial administration, and liaising and negotiating with suppliers, contractors and other stakeholders.
Ensure Occupational Health and Safety guidelines are followed
Planning and overseeing maintenance of the mine and developing emergency response plans.
Direct and coordinate the activities of employees engaged in performing a variety of production operations aimed at achieving planned production targets.
Oversees the production process and assists with drawing up of the production schedule
Ensures all work is effectively planned, resourced, and undertaken in a safe and cost effective manner
Monitors the production process in line with set targets ensuring strict adherence to plan compliance
Monitors product standards and implements a quality control program, reviews reports and statistics to plan and modify mining activities
Provides insight on the selection of mining equipment, reviews new product plans and discusses equipment needs and modifications
Implements and ensures that methods and procedures are in place for optimal asset utilization
Ensures adherence to policies, standards and procedures in all areas of operations
Investigates non-conformance to mining activities
Identify areas for improvement and implement solutions. Production Foreman:
Promote and maintain safe working practices.
Supervise Drill /Blast and Haul/Load team leaders and crews.
Adhere to weekly and monthly work schedules/plans.
Oversee equipment practices and haul road conditions to minimize equipment abuse and damage.
Continually seek ways of improving performance and minimizing cost.
Work as part of a small, focused team with a desire to advance to more senior positions in the future 8 P a g e A r n o L a G r a n g e
Oryx Natural Resources – DRC –Opencast Diamond Mine Metals and Mining
Production Foreman Opencast Mining
Jan 2001 – Jan 2004
Responsibilities:
Production Foreman:
Responsible for overseeing labour on the project and ensuring Health and Safety is maintained as well as the upkeep of the Quality Control systems
Manage and plan all Load and Haul operations
Communication medium between staff and higher management
Monitor the schedule progress of the works onsite
Running of the current project to a profitable budget
Ensuring day to day planning is run to a strict schedule
Liaising between the contracting company and client
Ensure that the entire plant is in a good working order and maintained at regular intervals
Conduct complex negotiations with operations as required
Demonstrate visible safety leadership
Maintain focus on operational performance and development of a competent workforce
Oversee the management of projects to ensure full compliance with the company's management policies
Manage and recruit staff.
Closely monitor all areas of the opencast mine to ensure that extraction and processing work is carried out to the highest standard
Provide active leadership and management of safety processes and culture to minimise risk in all operations activities
Liaise with staff on site and deal with any technical or staffing challenges that arise
Undertake regular site inspections and risk assessments in order to comply with all health and safety regulations
Examine the materials produced to ensure that a high quality of product is maintained
Assess equipment and production material levels
Order new items as required
Check that all vehicles on site are maintained to a good standard.
Control and manage an open pit mine
Long and short term training strategies
Control and management of construction and infrastructure.
Maintenance of administration including payroll, reports and contracts
Developing and implementation of Project planning and cost control system
Conduct Training Courses for all new mining staff as required Previous Working Experience:
Oct 2024 – Present Superintendent Opencast Prodoction and Drill and Blast – Barrick Gold Corporation Zambia Oct 2020 – Oct 2024 Senior Specialist Drill and Blast Underground – AngloGold Ashanti Tanzania Feb 2015 – Mar 2020 Drill and Blast Manager Capital Drilling Tanzania Feb 2009 – Jan 2015 Manager Mining Trollope Mining Feb 2004 – Jan 2009 Production Manager and Site Superintendent Sentula Mining Jan 2001 – Jan 2004 Production Foreman Oryx Natural Resources (Pty) Ltd. Democratic Republic of Congo Jan 1997 – Dec 2000 Production Foreman Load and Haul BHP Billiton Khutala Colleries Jan 1994 – Dec 1996 Mining Dewatering Foreman - BHP Billiton Khutala Colleries Dec 1993 – Dec 1994 South African Defence Force – Military Service (4 SAI) 9 P a g e A r n o L a G r a n g e
Qualifications/ Inductions
2024: Certificate: Mine Overseers Certificate of Competence 2023: Certificate: Minie Managers Certificate of Competence 2021: Certificate: UG Operations (UG Explosives,Blast Designs, Investigations, MMU) 2020: Student : Maptek, Data Mine, Aegis
2017: Certificate: HRM3 (AngloGold Ashanti)
2017: Certificate: Trainer Assessor (SAQA)
2013: Certificate: Surface Mining Operations Drill and Blast 2013: Certificate: Management and Supervision
2009: Certificate: Explosives Manager (DME /SAP)
2009: Certificate: Blasting Certificate (DME)
2009: Certificate: Magazine Master (DME /SAP)
2013: Certificate: Cert 4 Surface Mining Operations Drill and Blast 2009: Certificate: Legal Liability Course
2008: Certificate: HIRAC (EXXARO)
2002: Certificate: Gerotek 4x4 Course
2002: Certificate: Effective People Management
2002: Certificate: VISO 2000
2000: Certificate: MS Projects – Inhouse training
2000: Certificate: SAP 4.6
Computer Literacy
MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
SAP, Vulcan (Enroled), Aegis (Enroled), Data Mine Sudio UG, Data Mine EPS, (Enroled), Maptek (Enroled) References:
References and Certificates available upon request Education:
Higher Technical School Ligbron: 1989 – 1993 Grade 12 Subjects: Technical Drawing, Motor Mechanics, Maths, Science, Afrikaans, English, LO Hobbies:
Motorsport: Rally – 3 x South African National Rally Champion Driver / Navigator Class N3 Golf, Tennis, Cricket
Contact this candidate