Chief Sustainability Officer Job Vacancy in Tsumeb, Namibia – Mining and Metallurgy

Job Description

Position: Chief Sustainability Officer

Company: Rio Tinto

Location: Tsumeb, Namibia

Experience: 12+ years

Education: Master’s Degree in Environmental Science or Sustainable Development

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Mining and Metallurgy

Department: Corporate Sustainability and ESG

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

Rio Tinto is a global leader in the mining sector, dedicated to discovering, mining, and processing minerals that are essential for the transition to a low-carbon future. With a legacy of operational excellence and a commitment to ethical sourcing, the company operates some of the world’s largest mines and smelting facilities. In Namibia, Rio Tinto focuses on integrating advanced metallurgical processes with stringent environmental safeguards to ensure that mineral extraction contributes positively to the national economy while preserving the unique biodiversity of the region. The company is deeply invested in the concept of sustainable mining, aiming to minimize the ecological footprint of its operations through innovative water management, carbon sequestration, and waste reduction strategies. By fostering strong partnerships with local communities and government bodies, Rio Tinto strives to create shared value and long-term prosperity. As a cornerstone of the industrial landscape, the company prioritizes safety, inclusivity, and transparency, ensuring that every employee is empowered to contribute to a greener and more equitable mining industry. For those seeking high-impact Career Opportunities in Namibia, Rio Tinto offers a professional environment where technical expertise meets environmental stewardship.

Job Overview

The Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) is a critical executive role responsible for steering the strategic direction of Rio Tinto’s environmental and social governance (ESG) initiatives in Tsumeb. This position involves the design and implementation of comprehensive sustainability frameworks that align with both international standards and Namibian national regulations. The CSO will oversee the transition toward carbon neutrality, manage the company’s relationship with environmental regulators, and lead the corporate social responsibility (CSR) agenda to ensure that mining activities benefit the local population. This is a high-level leadership role requiring a blend of technical environmental knowledge and corporate strategic planning. The successful candidate will be tasked with transforming sustainability from a compliance requirement into a competitive advantage, ensuring that the Tsumeb operations are recognized as a global benchmark for sustainable metallurgy. This Job Vacancy in Namibia represents a unique opportunity for a seasoned professional to influence the future of the extractive industry. For more information on similar roles, visit https://liberiajobsearch.com. The role demands a visionary leader who can navigate the complexities of industrial production while championing the protection of natural resources, making it one of the most prestigious Employment in Namibia options for ESG experts.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a long-term sustainability roadmap to achieve net-zero emissions across all Tsumeb operations.
• Lead the integration of ESG metrics into the core business strategy and operational KPIs.
• Oversee the environmental impact assessment (EIA) processes for new projects and existing facility expansions.
• Manage stakeholder engagement programs with local communities, NGOs, and government ministries.
• Direct the implementation of circular economy principles to reduce tailings and maximize mineral recovery.
• Ensure full compliance with the Namibian Environmental Management Act and international ISO standards.
• Produce annual sustainability reports for shareholders and regulatory bodies.
• Collaborate with the engineering team to implement renewable energy sources for smelting operations.

Required Skills

• Expertise in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) accounting and carbon footprint reduction strategies.
• Advanced knowledge of mining legislation and environmental law in Southern Africa.
• Strong leadership and executive communication skills for boardroom presentations.
• Proficiency in ESG reporting frameworks such as GRI, SASB, and TCFD.
• Ability to manage complex multi-stakeholder negotiations and conflict resolution.
• Strategic thinking with a focus on long-term ecological and social viability.

Education

The candidate must possess a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science, Sustainable Development, Environmental Engineering, or a related field. A PhD or professional certification in Sustainability (e.g., LEED or ISSP) is highly desirable.

Experience

A minimum of 12 years of professional experience is required, with at least 5 years in a senior management or executive role within the mining, oil and gas, or heavy manufacturing sectors. Proven track record of delivering large-scale sustainability projects in emerging markets is essential for those applying for this Hiring in Namibia opportunity.

Benefits

• Competitive executive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive international health insurance and wellness programs.
• Relocation assistance and housing allowance for Tsumeb.
• Company vehicle and professional development budget.
• Generous pension scheme and retirement benefits.

Training

• Executive leadership training at Rio Tinto’s global centers.
• Specialized certification in advanced carbon capture technologies.
• Workshops on indigenous community engagement and social license to operate.
• Continuous professional development in global ESG trends.

Working Environment

The role is based in Tsumeb, involving a mix of corporate office settings and frequent site visits to smelting plants and mine tailings areas. The environment is fast-paced and requires the ability to operate effectively in both a corporate executive capacity and a field-based operational capacity. Candidates should be comfortable working in an industrial setting while maintaining a high level of professional diplomacy.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their comprehensive CV and a strategic statement of intent outlining their vision for sustainability in the mining sector. All applications will be screened for technical alignment and leadership experience. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a series of behavioral interviews and a presentation to the executive board. For further details on the application portal, please visit https://www.liberiajobsearch.com/. This is a premier opportunity for those searching for Namibia Jobs in the executive tier.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Rio Tinto is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, religion, gender, age, or disability. We encourage qualified individuals from all backgrounds to apply for this position to help us build a more sustainable future for Namibia.