Operations Manager - Upstream

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary

Executive-level benefits package

Leadership development programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead upstream activities around Polokwane. You will oversee exploration, drilling, production, and facilities, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

The role requires a strong track record in oil and gas operations and the ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams. You will be responsible for budgets, P&L, and capital projects, driving improvements while ensuring compliance with HSE and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering (MBA a plus)
• 10+ years in Oil & Gas ops management, upstream focus
• Proven budgets, P&L responsibilities, and capex project experience
• Strong drilling, completions, production, and facilities knowledge
• Demonstrated leadership of diverse teams and stakeholder mgmt

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day upstream operations including exploration, drilling, production, and facilities management.
• Develop and manage operational budgets to meet cost and financial targets.
• Lead, mentor, and develop engineers, geoscientists, and operations staff.
• Ensure strict adherence to HSE policies and regulatory standards.
• Drive initiatives for efficiency, reliability, and continuous improvement.
• Liaise with government agencies, partners, and service providers to ensure smooth operations.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Stakeholder management

Upstream operations

HSE compliance

Education

Bachelor's in Petroleum Engineering

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

MBA (plus)

Tools

P&L oversight

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dynamic and experienced Operations Manager to oversee upstream activities in the vicinity of Polokwane . This leadership position is responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of all exploration and production operations within the assigned area of the Oil & Gas business. You will manage budgets, lead multidisciplinary teams, and ensure compliance with all regulatory and company standards. The ideal candidate possesses strong operational management skills, a proven track record in the upstream sector, and a commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day upstream operations , including exploration, drilling, production, and facility management.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring cost control and financial performance targets are met.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of engineers, geoscientists, and operational staff.
• Ensure strict adherence to all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and regulations.
• Implement and drive initiatives for operational efficiency, reliability, and continuous improvement.
• Liaise with government agencies, partners, and service providers to ensure smooth operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; an MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in Oil & Gas operations management, with a significant portion in upstream activities.
• Proven experience in managing budgets, P&L responsibilities, and capital projects.
• Strong knowledge of drilling, completions, production operations, and facility management.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience managing diverse teams.
• Excellent strategic planning, decision-making, and stakeholder management skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Executive-level benefits package including health, retirement, and insurance.
• Opportunity to lead significant operations in a key region.
• Access to leadership development programs and executive training.
• A challenging and rewarding role with substantial impact on company performance.