Chief Technical Officer Lithium BU - F/M

Eramet and its subsidiary Eramine has started the operation of its first 24kt Lithium Carbonate plant in Argentina in the Province of Salta (Centenario 1st Plant) at the end of 2024. Following this first step, we are preparing the construction of a second plant on the same Salar while optimizing the performance of the first plant (i.e. process improvements, brine reinjection, use of Solar PV…).

In the meantime, this first Direct Lithium Extraction plant (DLE) is expected to accelerate the growth of Eramet Lithium platform and reinforce the pipeline of Lithium projects opportunities that Eramet is currently developing (Centenario phase 2, AGELI project in France, projects in Chile, numerous other projects in discussion by the Business Development Team…).

 Job description

Eramet, a global leader in responsible mining and metallurgy, is seeking an experienced Chief Technical Officer (CTO) for its Lithium Business Unit. This newly created role is instrumental in supporting the rapid expansion of Eramet’s lithium operations, overseeing engineering, operational excellence, and strategic project execution. The CTO will play a critical role in ensuring the success of large-scale industrial projects, as well as optimizing the performance of the company's first lithium plant in Argentina and supporting future lithium developments worldwide.

Location & Travel Requirements

• Position based in Paris, France
• Frequent international travel (~10 days per month) to:
  • Existing operations (Argentina, Chile).
  • Customers/partners (Asia, US).
  • Vendors & engineering firms (EU, US).

Responsibilities

As Chief Technical Officer, you will be responsible for:

Operational Excellence at Eramine's First Plant:

• Support the COO and CTO of Eramine in ensuring high standards for safety, quality, asset integrity, maintenance, and cost control.
• Provide guidance during operational crises (e.g., major breakdowns, safety incidents).
• Oversee mine planning, brine reinjection, and process optimization strategies.

Project Management & Execution:

• Oversee Greenfield and Brownfield capital projects, ensuring successful execution and adherence to budget and timelines.
• Lead project tracking, business case reviews, and ensure operational readiness before start-up.
• Support project teams in resolving key technical and planning challenges.
• Provide strategic reporting on project status to senior management.

Business Development & Strategic Assessments:

• Evaluate new lithium project opportunities in collaboration with Business Development, Geology, and Process teams.
• Review scoping studies and assess economic and technical feasibility.
• Ensure consistency in technical approaches across different lithium projects.
• Assist in structuring deals and partnerships with third parties.

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Act as a strategic advisor to the Head of the Lithium Business Unit.
• Represent the BU Director when required and contribute to key decision-making processes.
• Maintain strong relationships with engineering firms, suppliers, and business partners globally.

Your Profile

Experience:

• Minimum 25 years of experience in industrial project management.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale industrial projects (€200-500M+).
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams in mining, chemicals, oil & gas, or steel industries.
• Strong background in chemical processes, ideally in Chlor-Alkali or similar processes.

Skills:

• Strong business acumen and strategic thinking.
• Excellent analytical abilities with an 80/20 decision-making approach.
• Effective team leadership and influential communication skills.
• Commitment to operational excellence, safety, and cost efficiency.

Languages:

• English: Fluent (spoken/written).
• Spanish: Fluent (spoken/written).
• French: A plus.

Our advantages

Every day at Eramet, we strive to be a responsible player in the mining industry and to reduce our environmental footprint. If you are looking for a dynamic, inclusive, and international work environment. Join us and become the new face of mining! 

Become part of the Eramet teams and benefit from: 

• An attractive compensation package, including an annual fixed salary, performance-based variable pay, profit-sharing, and various bonuses depending on your role.
• Access to an employee share ownership program.
• A comprehensive savings and retirement plan co-financed by the company.
• 100% coverage of your Navigo pass or sustainable mobility package (bike, carpooling, subscription, transportation allowance, etc.).
• Up to 2 days of remote work per week, according to the provisions in place within your team.
• Health insurance and life/disability coverage.
• Access to discounted leisure activities

With a presence on five continents and over 70 nationalities, Eramet is by nature a diverse group. Convinced that diversity is an asset, we are committed to welcoming all talents, whatever their gender, disability, age, social or cultural origin, or sexual orientation. We guarantee everyone support and development opportunities throughout their career.