Chief Operating Officer (COO018)

Foreground.; Dubai; On-site; AED 500,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading drilling operations firm in Dubai is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee daily rig operations and ensure adherence to safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate will have over 18 years in drilling operations leadership, a proven record in fleet management, and expertise in operational transformation. This critical role involves direct engagement with clients and regulators, focusing on driving automation and cost-effective drilling programs.

Qualifications

• 18+ years in drilling operations leadership, including 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.
• Ensure compliance with ADNOC and international HSSE standards.
• Drive automation, predictive maintenance, and operational digitalization.

Skills

Drilling operations leadership

Fleet management

Rig operations technical expertise

Operational transformation

Education

Degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering

Job description

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.