Head of Project Services at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO)

Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), the leading energy company in the Sultanate, announces a vacancy for a critical leadership position: Head of Project Services. This role represents a prime opportunity for highly experienced engineering and project management professionals to join one of the region's most significant companies and contribute to the major strategic projects it undertakes.

Job Description and Responsibilities

The Head of Project Services holds a pivotal leadership position within the company's organizational structure, bearing full responsibility for directing and supporting all services related to the management and execution of company projects. The successful candidate will be accountable for ensuring the effective planning, precise execution, and continuous monitoring of project services in line with the highest standards of quality, safety, and financial efficiency.

Key expected responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing the Project Services team, providing strategic direction and supervision to ensure goal achievement.
• Establishing and implementing policies, procedures, and standards for managing project services across all phases (planning, scheduling, cost control, risk management, and reporting).
• Ensuring the integration and alignment of project services with the strategic business objectives and priorities of the company.
• Overseeing the preparation and analysis of comprehensive project schedules, cost budgets, and expenditure forecasts.
• Developing and managing robust risk management systems and procedures, identifying potential challenges, and formulating mitigation plans.
• Providing periodic reports and accurate analyses to senior management on project performance, highlighting variances and corrective recommendations.
• Ensuring compliance with all internal and external regulatory requirements, industry standards, and project management best practices.
• Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the Project Services team.

Qualifications and Requirements

This leadership role demands a candidate with a strong academic background and extensive practical experience in a complex project environment, preferably within the oil & gas or energy sector.

Academic Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Chemical, or equivalent) from a recognized university. A Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) or Project Management is a significant advantage.
• A recognized professional certification in project management such as PMP (Project Management Professional) from the Project Management Institute (PMI) or equivalent.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of experience in project management or project services, with a focus on major projects in the oil & gas or heavy industries sector.
• Proven experience of at least 7 years in leadership positions, managing multidisciplinary teams.
• In-depth knowledge of advanced project management tools and software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, cost management systems).
• Comprehensive understanding of the project lifecycle, from concept and appraisal through to delivery and operation.
• Experience working within a stringent regulatory environment and high safety standards.

Personal Skills:

• Exceptional leadership and managerial skills, with the ability to motivate teams and drive change.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills (verbal and written) in both Arabic and English.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities for complex issues and strategic decision-making.
• Powerful negotiation and influencing skills when dealing with internal and external stakeholders.
• Intense focus on results and the ability to perform under pressure to meet objectives within set timelines and budgets.

How to Apply

Application for this leadership role is primarily conducted through specialized professional platforms and the official Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) website. Qualified candidates are advised to:

1. Professionally update their Curriculum Vitae (CV), highlighting leadership experience and tangible achievements in managing project services, especially within oil & gas projects.
2. Include details of relevant academic qualifications and professional certifications.
3. Search for the job advertisement under the title "Head of Project Services" on the PDO corporate website or leading job portals like Naukrigulf and follow the specified online application instructions.
4. Ensure all core requirements are met before submitting the application.

Petroleum Development Oman offers a dynamic work environment and provides opportunities for career development and contribution to major national projects. This is an ideal opportunity for the ambitious engineering leader seeking to make a real impact in the energy industry.