Job Description
Job Summary
- We are a leading upstream oil and gas exploration and production company seeking an experienced QHSE Director to oversee and drive the implementation of world-class Quality, Health, Safety, and Environmental (QHSE) standards across all operations.
- The ideal candidate will ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and corporate policies to minimize risks, enhance operational efficiency, and promote a culture of safety and environmental stewardship.
- This strategic leadership role is critical in safeguarding the well-being of employees, contractors, and communities while ensuring operational excellence and regulatory compliance in Nigeria’s dynamic oil and gas sector.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy:
- Develop and execute the company’s QHSE strategy, policies, and objectives in alignment with corporate goals.
- Provide leadership to the QHSE team, fostering a proactive safety culture across all operational sites.
- Advise senior management on QHSE risks, regulatory changes, and industry trends.
Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:
- Ensure full compliance with Nigerian regulatory requirements (DPR, NOSDRA, NIMASA, etc.) and international standards (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001/ISO 45001).
- Conduct risk assessments, audits, and inspections to identify hazards and implement corrective actions.
- Maintain up-to-date permits, licenses, and certifications required for upstream operations.
Health & Safety Management:
- Oversee the implementation of HSE management systems to prevent accidents, injuries, and occupational illnesses.
- Lead incident investigations, root cause analyses, and reporting (including near-misses, spills, and fatalities).
- Develop and enforce emergency response plans, drills, and crisis management protocols.
Environmental Stewardship:
- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, including waste management, emissions control, and spill prevention.
- Drive sustainability initiatives to minimize the company’s environmental footprint.
- Monitor and report on environmental performance metrics (e.g., carbon emissions, flaring reduction).
Quality Assurance & Control:
- Implement quality management systems to ensure operational integrity and reliability.
- Oversee inspection, testing, and maintenance programs for equipment and facilities.
- Ensure adherence to industry standards (API, ASME, etc.) in drilling, production, and logistics.
Training & Awareness:
- Develop and deliver QHSE training programs for employees, contractors, and stakeholders.
- Promote a strong safety culture through awareness campaigns, toolbox talks, and behavioral safety programs.
Performance Monitoring & Reporting:
- Track and analyze QHSE performance metrics (LTIFR, TRIR, spill volumes, etc.).
- Prepare and present QHSE reports to the Board, regulators, and external stakeholders.
- Drive continuous improvement through data-driven decision-making.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Liaise with regulatory agencies, host communities, and industry bodies on QHSE matters.
- Manage relationships with contractors, ensuring their compliance with QHSE requirements.
- Represent the company in industry forums and QHSE-related engagements.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, or related field.
- A Master’s degree or MBA is a plus.
- NEBOSH, ISPON, ISO Lead Auditor, or equivalent HSE certifications.
- Minimum 15 years in QHSE management, with at least 8 years in the upstream oil and gas sector.
- Deep knowledge of Nigerian oil & gas regulations (DPR, NOSDRA).
- Expertise in HSE management systems (ISO 14001, ISO 45001).
- Strong understanding of upstream operations (drilling, production, pipelines).
- Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and influence senior management.
- Excellent report writing, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Key Competencies:
- Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving abilities.
- High ethical standards and commitment to safety excellence.
- Ability to work under pressure in challenging environments.
- Proactive, results-driven, and detail-oriented.