Planning Lead - Deepwater project

My Client is a large international Service company who specialise in E&P projects globally.

Due to recent expansion in Guana, they are searching a Planning Lead to be based in Dubai for a 6 month renewable project for a deepwater project.

The Planning lead will need to have experience in:

• Lead the execution readiness process from FEL through to final drilling execution.
• Translate well concept and basis-of-design into a fully executable plan with clear deliverables, timelines, and interdependencies.
• Coordinate with subsurface, wells, HSE, procurement, legal, and logistics to ensure integrated planning.
• Champion the stage-gate process to secure internal and partner approvals.
• Identify and secure long-lead items (e.g., wellheads, risers, casing, critical equipment) in coordination with supply chain.
• Develop and execute the procurement and contracting strategy in alignment with project risk, schedule, and budget requirements.
• Define the organizational structure and resourcing plan for all execution phases.
• Work closely with HR and project services to secure internal and external (contractor) resources.
• Ensure offshore/onshore readiness for drilling operations (logistics, accommodations, HSSE plans, etc.).
• Lead the identification, quantification, and mitigation of execution risks (technical, commercial, operational).
• Maintain and update the Execution Risk Register, with mitigation plans and clear ownership.
• Facilitate regular risk reviews, lessons learned integration, and mitigation progress tracking.

The Planning Lead must:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Project Management, or related technical discipline (advanced degree preferred).
• 20+ years of upstream oil & gas experience, including:
  
  • Minimum 10 years in execution planning or drilling operations.
  • Proven track record in deepwater exploration well planning and execution.
• Familiarity with FEL frameworks, procurement strategy development, and long-lead item management.
• Experience managing JV partners, regulatory interfaces, and steering committees.
• Proficient in project planning tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project), risk management systems, and readiness checklists.