Senior Legal Counsel (Four-Year Contract) at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO)

Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), the leading energy company in the Sultanate, is inviting applications for the position of Senior Legal Counsel within its specialized team, offered on a four-year employment contract. This opportunity represents a distinguished professional platform for highly experienced lawyers to join one of the region's most significant companies and contribute to the mega-projects and complex operations managed by PDO.

Job Overview

The Senior Legal Counsel will be appointed on a fixed-term contract basis (four years) and will be responsible for providing strategic and effective legal advice to the company's management and its various operational divisions. PDO operates in a dynamic and complex environment encompassing exploration and production operations, joint ventures, major contracts, and regulatory compliance, requiring a deep understanding of local and international law, particularly within the oil and gas sector.

Key Expected Responsibilities and Duties

• Provide legal advice and opinion on all matters related to the company's activities, ensuring full compliance with Omani laws, regulations, and relevant international agreements.
• Review, draft, and analyze complex high-value contracts and agreements, including contractor agreements, service agreements, joint venture agreements, and procurement agreements.
• Manage legal risks and provide proactive guidance to avoid or mitigate disputes.
• Represent the company's legal interests and coordinate with external law firms when necessary.
• Contribute to the development of internal policies and procedures to ensure the legally sound conduct of business.
• Provide legal support for mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring activities (if applicable).
• Stay abreast of legislative and regulatory developments affecting the energy sector in Oman.

Essential Qualifications and Requirements

• Academic Degree: A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized university. A Master of Laws (LLM) or an advanced professional qualification in Oil & Gas Law or Corporate Law is a strong advantage.
• Work Experience: A minimum of 8 to 12 years of legal practice experience, with a proven focus on the oil & gas, energy, or infrastructure sector. Experience should include working in an international corporate environment or a prestigious law firm dealing with energy sector clients.
• Legal Skills: Deep expertise in drafting and reviewing complex commercial and construction contracts, and a solid understanding of corporate law and regulatory compliance.
• Personal Skills: Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, outstanding written and verbal communication skills in both Arabic and English. Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Licensing: The applicant must hold a license to practice from the competent authority in the Sultanate of Oman or be eligible to obtain one.

Work Location and Environment

The position will be based at the headquarters of Petroleum Development Oman in the Sultanate of Oman. PDO offers a stimulating and professional work environment, with opportunities to handle world-class legal challenges and contribute to major national projects.

How to Apply for the Position

Applications for this position are primarily submitted through specialized online platforms such as Naukrigulf or the official Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) website. Interested candidates should prepare a comprehensive resume in English that clearly highlights their relevant experience, including achievements in previous roles. The resume must include contact information, academic qualifications, and detailed work experience.

Note: Given the nature of the role as a fixed-term contract (four years), it is suitable for lawyers seeking a long-term, intensive engagement with a dynamic team at the heart of Oman's energy industry.