Senior Drilling Operations Manager

Role overview

This position is responsible for directing drilling activities across several rigs, with a focus on safety, operational reliability, and cost discipline. The role ensures wells are delivered in accordance with approved plans, technical specifications, and applicable regulatory standards.

Core responsibilities

• Direct drilling operations across multiple rigs and keep execution aligned with approved plans.
• Ensure drilling programmes are carried out according to engineering standards and well design requirements.
• Review rig performance, well progress, and overall operational efficiency on an ongoing basis.
• Maintain full compliance with HSE expectations and all relevant regulatory obligations.
• Lead planning, scheduling, and allocation of drilling resources.
• Manage drilling budgets and identify opportunities to reduce costs.
• Monitor key performance indicators, drilling metrics, and management reporting.
• Coordinate effectively with contractors and service providers.
• Guide, support, and develop drilling teams and engineering personnel.

Required expertise

• Deep knowledge of drilling operations and engineering, including well design and rig execution.
• Strong understanding of well control principles and risk management practices.
• Demonstrated success improving operational performance, including reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.
• Experience managing contractors and engaging with multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to make sound decisions in complex drilling environments.
• Strong commitment to HSE and regulatory compliance.

Minimum qualifications

• At least 15 years of experience in drilling operations, including onshore and offshore environments.
• At least 7 years of experience in senior drilling leadership positions.
• Background in managing large-scale drilling campaigns.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a closely related discipline.