Chief Operating Officer (COO018)

Foreground.; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A UAE-based drilling services leader is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to oversee drilling operations in Abu Dhabi. The role focuses on ensuring operational reliability across the rig fleet, leading safety standards, and driving digital transformation. Candidates should possess extensive experience in drilling operations and strong technical expertise. This is a critical leadership role requiring strategic vision and crisis management capabilities.

Qualifications

• 18+ years in drilling operations leadership, including both onshore and offshore rigs.
• Strong record of managing large fleets and delivering drilling programs efficiently.
• Experience leading operational transformation through digital and safety programs.

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

Drilling operations leadership

Operations management

Technical expertise in rig operations

Crisis management

Mentoring leadership pipeline

Education

Degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Overview

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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.

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.

Seniority level

Executive

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Management and Manufacturing

Industries

Business Consulting and Services