Operations Manager - Upstream

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks an experienced Operations Manager - Upstream to oversee exploration, drilling, completion and production activities in the Gauteng region, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and profitability.

You will lead a skilled team, manage budgets, ensure HSE compliance, and drive continuous improvement while reporting to senior management. A strong technical background in petroleum or mechanical engineering and at least 10 years in upstream Ops is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum or Mechanical Engineering (MBA a plus).
• 10+ years upstream Oil & Gas with 5+ years in management.
• Strong HSE knowledge and leadership capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee upstream operations including exploration, drilling, completion, and production.
• Develop strategic operational plans aligned with objectives and best practices.
• Manage budgets and optimize resource utilization.
• Lead and develop the operations team for high performance.
• Report performance and challenges to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Budgeting

HSE Knowledge

Negotiation

Communication

Project Management

Education

Petroleum Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

MBA (advantage)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the Oil & Gas sector, is actively recruiting an experienced Operations Manager - Upstream to oversee and optimize their operational activities. This critical role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in managing complex upstream operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and profitability. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated team, drive operational improvements, and champion best practices across all facets of the business. This position is situated in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA , a key industrial hub. Our client is committed to operational excellence and is seeking a leader who can inspire confidence and deliver exceptional results in a fast-paced environment. This role is integral to the company's success and requires a hands-on approach to managing day-to-day operations while maintaining a clear vision for future growth and development. We are looking for an individual who thrives on challenges and is adept at navigating the complexities of the upstream Oil & Gas landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all upstream operations, including exploration, drilling, completion, and production activities.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans aligned with company objectives and industry best practices.
• Manage operational budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and maximizing resource utilization.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Monitor operational performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions.
• Manage relationships with contractors, vendors, and regulatory bodies.
• Oversee the maintenance and integrity of all operational assets and equipment.
• Report on operational performance, challenges, and successes to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. An MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in upstream Oil & Gas operations, with at least 5 years in a managerial capacity.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing drilling, completion, and production operations.
• Strong knowledge of HSE regulations and best practices in the industry.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide diverse teams.
• Excellent strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in project management and operational budgeting.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Experience in the Gauteng, ZA region is advantageous.

Benefits

This role comes with a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package

• medical aid
• retirement fund contributions
• performance bonuses

Our client offers a dynamic work environment in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA , with significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development. You will have the chance to make a tangible impact on the company's operations and contribute to the growth of the Oil & Gas industry. We support continuous learning and provide resources for skill enhancement, ensuring our employees remain at the forefront of industry advancements.