Chief Operating Officer

Foreground LLC; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A UAE-based drilling services leader is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) in Abu Dhabi. The COO will oversee all operations for the rig fleet, ensuring compliance with safety standards and driving operational efficiency. Qualified candidates should have at least 18 years of leadership experience in drilling operations, a strong record in managing large fleets, and possess a degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering. This is a mission-critical role responsible for sustaining client confidence and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 18 years in drilling operations leadership including both onshore and offshore rigs.
• Strong record of managing large fleets and delivering drilling programs efficiently.
• In-depth technical expertise in rig operations, drilling engineering and maintenance strategies.

Responsibilities

• Direct all onshore and offshore drilling operations across UAE rig sites.
• Oversee maintenance rig recertification and lifecycle planning.
• Ensure compliance with ADNOC and international HSSE standards.

Skills

Leadership in drilling operations

Safety management

Operational efficiency

Digital transformation

Crisis management

Education

Degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering

Management education

Job description

Foreground is partnering with a UAE-based drilling services leader to appoint a Chief Operating Officer (COO) in Abu Dhabi. The COO will take direct responsibility for ensuring operational reliability and efficiency across a significant rig fleet.

About the Role

The COO will lead all daily rig operations ensuring seamless execution of drilling campaigns while embedding world‑class standards in safety, asset integrity and digital transformation. This role is mission‑critical to sustaining operational excellence and client confidence.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct all onshore and offshore drilling operations across UAE rig sites setting KPIs for performance and safety.
• Oversee maintenance rig recertification and lifecycle planning to maximize uptime and reliability.
• Ensure compliance with ADNOC and international HSSE standards.
• Drive automation predictive maintenance and operational digitalization.
• Lead crisis management and operational risk frameworks.
• Mentor Rig Managers, Superintendents and Operations Managers to build a robust leadership pipeline.
• Serve as the primary operational representative for clients, regulators and joint ventures.

Qualifications & Experience

• 18 years in drilling operations leadership including both onshore and offshore rigs.
• Strong record of managing large fleets and delivering drilling programs efficiently.
• In‑depth technical expertise in rig operations, drilling engineering and maintenance strategies.
• Experience leading operational transformation through digital and safety programs.
• Degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering; management education an advantage.