Government Relations Manager at Darien Consulting Limited

Our client is a multinational oil and gas trading group with offices in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Their experience spans over a decade focusing petroleum products trading and marine logistics. The firm offers a world class working environment and competitive remuneration package to attract and retain some of the best hands in the industry.

Due to expansion into the Nigerian and West African Market, our client is shopping for a Government Relations Manager working out of her Lagos office. The Government Relations Manager serves as the primary liaison between the company and Nigerian government entities, regulatory bodies, and key stakeholders. This role ensures alignment between business objectives and public policy while maintaining compliance with all regulatory requirements. The position requires strategic engagement to shape favorable policy environments and secure necessary approvals for business operations

Reports to:              Chief Operating Officer

Job Description

Government Engagement & Policy Monitoring

• Maintain daily contact with relevant ministries (Petroleum, Power, Transport, etc.), legislators, and regulatory agencies
• Monitor and analyze proposed legislation/regulations impacting company operations
• Prepare position papers and policy briefs for internal stakeholders
• Represent the company at public hearings, parliamentary sessions, and industry forums

Regulatory Compliance & Approvals

• Secure all required permits, licenses, and approvals from government agencies
• Manage renewal processes for operational licenses and certifications
• Develop compliance frameworks for new regulations in collaboration with Legal

Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain relationships with key decision-makers at federal, state, and local levels
• Coordinate with industry associations (MAN, NACCIMA, etc.) on collective advocacy
• Interface with community leaders and traditional institutions where required

Strategic Advisory

• Provide real-time intelligence on political developments affecting business
• Advise senior management on government engagement strategies
• Develop contingency plans for potential regulatory changes

Project Support

• Facilitate government approvals for new projects and expansions
• Coordinate inter-agency collaborations for large-scale initiatives
• Resolve bureaucratic bottlenecks impacting operations

Corporate Reputation

• Position the company as a thought leader through policy roundtables
• Organize government familiarization visits to company facilities
• Manage corporate contributions to government development initiatives

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Law, International Relations, or related field
• Master's degree in Public Administration or Policy preferred
• Certification in Public Relations or Government Relations is a plus

Experience:

• 7+ years in government relations, public affairs, or regulatory roles
• Proven experience working with Nigerian government institutions (NASS, MDAs)
• Existing network within key ministries and regulatory bodies
• Background in oil and gas,  energy, infrastructure, or highly regulated sectors

Technical Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of Nigerian political and regulatory processes
• Strong understanding of sector-specific laws (PIA, Electricity Act, etc.)
•  Excellent regulatory documentation preparation skills
•  Crisis management and negotiation expertise

Behavioral Competencies:

• Discretion and political savvy
• Diplomatic communication skills
• Cultural intelligence across government hierarchies
• Ability to translate policy language into business impacts

Key Performance Indicators

• Number of critical approvals secured within timeline
• Policy changes influenced in company's favor
• Reduction in regulatory compliance incidents
• Government stakeholder satisfaction scores
• Speed of resolution for regulatory issues

Special Conditions

• Must maintain strict confidentiality on sensitive matters
• Required to attend evening government functions when necessary

Security clearance may be required for certain engagements