Program Manager at International Energy Services Limited (IESL)

Job Overview:

• The Program Manager will lead and oversee the successful execution of an oil and gas pipeline project. As a key leader in a Project Management Consultancy (PMC) team, the Program Manager will be responsible for the strategic leadership and governance of the pipeline project, ensuring that project objectives are met in terms of scope, schedule, quality, and budget while also ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and compliance with regulatory and industry standards. This role entails overseeing all project managers and ensuring that all project phases are executed efficiently and effectively. The ideal candidate will ensure proper resource allocation, risk management, and stakeholder communication to guarantee project success.
• This is a senior expatriate role that requires strategic leadership, technical expertise, and exceptional interpersonal skills.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Coordination:

• Act as the primary interface between the client, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Oversee the end-to-end project lifecycle, including planning, execution, monitoring, and delivery of the pipeline project.
• Ensure alignment of project goals with organizational and client objectives.

Planning & Execution:

• Develop, implement, and manage program strategies, execution plans, and schedules.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams, ensuring effective collaboration across engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning phases.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks, delays, and bottlenecks.

Technical Oversight:

• Provide oversight for review and validation of technical designs, engineering specifications, and construction methodologies for pipeline infrastructure.
• Ensure compliance with international standards, health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Drive innovation and implement best practices for cost efficiency and operational excellence.

Financial Management:

• Monitor project budgets, cash flow, and financial performance.
• Ensure cost control and deliverables are achieved within the approved budget.
• Manage change orders, claims, and cost variations in collaboration with the client and contractors.

Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with all project stakeholders, including government agencies, local authorities, and community representatives.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the client and stakeholders, highlighting progress, challenges, and solutions.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead a multicultural team of project managers, engineers, and support staff.
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Provide mentorship and training to enhance team performance and expertise.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering, project management, or a related field
• Master’s degree or MBA is an advantage.
• Minimum 15+ years of experience in project management within the oil and gas sector, with at least 10 years in pipeline projects.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or PRINCE2 certification is mandatory.
• Additional certifications in Oil & Gas pipeline project management (e.g., CSWIP, AWS) are an asset.
• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) and reporting systems.
• Knowledge of industry codes, standards, and best practices (e.g., API, ASME, ISO).
• Demonstrated success in oversight roles, including governance and compliance.
• Experience working with international oil companies (IOCs) or similar entities is highly advantageous
• Proven experience managing large-scale, multidisciplinary projects in a PMC or EPCM environment.
• International/expatriate experience, particularly in Africa is highly desirable.