General Manager – Energy (Power Plants)

Azizi Developments; Dubai; Hybrid; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy firm in Dubai is seeking a General Manager – Energy to oversee the development of a coal-fired thermal power plant in Afghanistan. The role requires over 20 years of experience in the energy sector, strong leadership capabilities, and extensive knowledge of IPP operations. This is an opportunity to shape a significant energy project, engaging with a committed leadership team focused on sustainability and innovation.

Qualifications

• 20+ years' experience in the energy sector, with minimum 5 years in senior leadership.
• Experience in developing thermal power plants under IPP model.
• Proven success in leading large-scale energy infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end development and operational readiness of the power plant.
• Oversee project financing, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement.
• Ensure best-in-class construction and commissioning of thermal power generation assets.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Technical Knowledge of Thermal Energy

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Energy Systems, Power Engineering or related discipline

Master’s degree or MBA

Job description

Overview

Talent Acquisition Specialist at Azizi Developments. Azizi Energy is seeking a seasoned General Manager – Energy (Power Plants) to lead the end-to-end development, construction, and operational readiness of a coal-fired thermal power plant in Afghanistan, operating under an Independent Power Producer (IPP) model. This role is based in Dubai with frequent travel to the project site.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Leadership & Strategy: Oversee the full lifecycle of the coal-fired power plant project—from development and permitting, through construction, commissioning, and operational launch—ensuring strategic alignment with Azizi’s energy ambitions as an IPP.
• IPP Development Oversight: Lead all facets of the IPP structure, including project financing, regulatory compliance, Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) negotiations, and stakeholder engagement with both public and private sector entities.
• Team & Stakeholder Management: Build and lead a multidisciplinary team comprising project engineers, operations specialists, financial analysts, contractors, and advisors, while managing relationships with governments, regulators, EPC partners, and local communities.
• Technical & Operational Excellence: Ensure best-in-class construction and commissioning of thermal power generation assets, adhering to international standards in plant performance, emissions control, environmental compliance, and health & safety.
• Commercial Accountability: Drive the financial viability of the project by managing budgets, operational costs, and revenue forecasts, including long-term O&M planning and risk management for sustained profitability.
• Strategic Advisory: Provide expert counsel to the Chairman, Chief of Staff, and Board on energy market trends, investment opportunities, regulatory landscapes, and sustainability roadmaps in the thermal energy space.

Key Requirements

• Academic Background: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Energy Systems, Power Engineering, or related discipline (Master’s degree or MBA highly preferred).
• Experience: Minimum of 20 years’ experience in the energy sector, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing the development and delivery of thermal (coal or gas) power plants. Proven experience operating under the IPP model, including PPA structuring, stakeholder negotiations, and financial oversight. Demonstrated success in leading large-scale energy infrastructure projects from concept to commissioning.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of coal-fired thermal generation systems, including combustion technologies, turbine/generator configurations, plant efficiency optimization, and environmental controls.
• Leadership & Influence: Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and cross-border partnerships.
• Location Flexibility: Willingness and ability to travel frequently to Afghanistan to oversee all aspects of the power plant development and operations.

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to spearhead a nationally significant infrastructure project within a visionary organization that is shaping the future of energy in the region. You’ll be working alongside an ambitious leadership team committed to sustainability, innovation, and impact. If you're a strategic energy leader with a strong track record in thermal power generation and are ready to lead an IPP from the ground up, we would love to hear from you.