Head of Project Execution, Europe
Indefinite - Full-time
Apply nowNyrstar is an international producer of critical minerals and metals essential for a low carbon future. With a market leading position in zinc and lead, Nyrstar has mining, smelting and other operations located in Europe and Australia and employs 3,000+ people. Its Corporate Office is based in Budel-Dorplein, the Netherlands.
The company’s operations are located close to key customers and major transport hubs to facilitate reliable and efficient delivery of raw materials and distribution of finished products. Nyrstar’s operating business is wholly owned by Trafigura, one of the world’s leading independent commodity trading and supply chain logistics companies.
JOB SUMMARY
Join our team as Head of Project Execution, where you will lead the successful delivery of a portfolio of capital projects across Nyrstar’s smelting operations.
In this role, you will oversee projects ranging from $500,000 to over $500 million across 5 operational sites in Europe. You will play a key role in guiding projects through all stages, from early opportunity assessment and feasibility studies through to full execution and delivery.
Key Responsibilities include:
- Lead and maintain Nyrstar’s capital project management framework, ensuring consistent standards for project planning, execution, governance, and reporting.
- Continuously improve project management systems, tools, and processes to support effective project delivery.
- Support strategic investment decisions by providing analysis, recommendations, and insights to corporate leadership.
- Evaluate project readiness, investment cases, and business value to support stage-gate approvals and capital allocation decisions.
- Manage and optimize a diverse project portfolio to ensure alignment with company strategy, business priorities, and resource availability.
- Drive effective portfolio planning and scenario analysis to support changing business conditions and growth opportunities.
- Oversee project execution to ensure delivery against scope, budget, schedule, quality, and risk targets.
- Establish strong governance, project controls, and reporting structures to monitor performance and resolve delivery issues proactively.
- Support and develop project teams through coaching, training, and capability-building initiatives.
- Collaborate with cross-functional leaders to strengthen organizational project execution capability and embed practical, fit-for-purpose solutions.
- Provide strong leadership, strategic resource planning, and pragmatic problem-solving to ensure focus on critical priorities and successful outcomes.
QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED SKILLS
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mining, Mineral Processing, Engineering, or a related technical discipline
- 15+ years of experience in technical engineering and project engineering roles, including large and complex mining and mineral processing projects across multiple geographies.
- Proven track record managing complex project portfolios and megaprojects within industrial or heavy industry environments.
- Strong experience across the full project lifecycle, from concept development and feasibility through procurement, contracting, execution, commissioning, and ramp-up.
- Extensive PMO and capital portfolio management experience overseeing diverse, high-value CAPEX projects.
- Solid knowledge of core project management methodologies, governance frameworks, controls, and delivery practices.
- Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, able to connect project outcomes to broader business objectives and value creation.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to present complex project information clearly to executive, operational, and commercial audiences.
- Proven leadership capability with experience mentoring, developing, and engaging cross-functional and multicultural teams.
- Resilient, adaptable, and decisive, with the ability to thrive in complex and fast-changing environments.
- Strong commercial acumen with expertise in cost management, capital allocation, and financial discipline.
- Committed to fostering a culture of safety, sustainability, collaboration, and inclusion across all projects and teams.
At Nyrstar, we recognize that the strength of our organization lies in the enthusiasm and dedication of our employees. Our team members are the driving force behind our success, and we are committed to providing an environment where they can thrive both professionally and personally. Here's what you can expect when you become part of the Nyrstar family:
A Supportive Foundation for Excellence: We equip our employees with the resources and tools necessary to excel in their roles, ensuring that every member of our team feels confident and prepared to perform their duties to the best of their abilities.
Meaningful Work That Matters: Our employees find their work not only useful but also meaningful. We foster a sense of purpose that resonates deeply, as every individual understands their contributions and feels truly valued. At Nyrstar, you are more than just an employee; you are a vital part of a mission that impacts the world.
Pride in Our Collective Identity: As a member of our team, you'll be proud to talk about Nyrstar with others. Our reputation as a leader in producing critical materials essential for everyday life is something every employee can take pride in. You'll know that you're part of a legacy of excellence and innovation.
Clear Direction and Autonomy: Employees at Nyrstar have a clear understanding of their roles and the tasks at hand. We promote autonomy and provide a clear roadmap, so you know exactly what's expected and have the freedom to approach your work creatively.
Satisfaction and Engagement: We take pride in the high level of satisfaction our employees express regarding their work content and our organizational culture. At Nyrstar, you'll enjoy a workplace environment that is both dynamic and supportive.
Involvement in Shaping the Future: Your voice matters. We encourage our employees to be involved in decision-making within their work scope, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our collective success.
Why Nyrstar?
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International Exposure: Embrace a diverse office culture with colleagues from 28 different nationalities, offering a rich exchange of perspectives and experiences.
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A Role with Impact: Be part of an organization at the forefront of producing materials that are crucial for modern living, where your contributions make a significant difference.
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Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package that recognizes your hard work and dedication to our mission.
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Flexibility for Work-Life Balance: We understand the importance of balancing professional and personal life, which is why we offer flexible working arrangements to accommodate the unique needs of our employees.
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Happiness that’s built to last: Recognized by WorkL as one of the happiest workplaces in the Netherlands — measured across six key pillars: well-being, job satisfaction, reward and recognition, information provision, empowerment and pride.
Join Nyrstar and become part of a community where passion meets purpose. We're not just offering a job; we're offering a career that makes a difference.
Are you ready to be part of something bigger?
Are you interested in this position?
Apply here immediately!