Job Description

Job Reference: 201394

Upstream

Start Date:

01/01/2026

Applications close on:

24/12/2025

Contract Type:

Contract

Country:

United Arab Emirates

Discipline:

Drilling

Minimum Experience:

20 Years+

Job Contact:

cheryl.scott@visuna.com


The Execution Planning Lead will be

responsible for orchestrating all pre-execution planning activities for a

deepwater exploration well, ensuring robust

front-end loading (FEL)

,

early-stage alignment between

subsurface and execution teams

, and full

integration of

procurement, contracting, logistics, and resourcing

into

a coordinated execution plan. This role is critical to

bridging the gap

between technical study outputs (e.g., well basis-of-design, risk registers)

and execution readiness, including third-party and partner alignment.

Execution Planning & FEL Leadership

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.

Long-Lead & Procurement Strategy

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.
Monitor
vendor readiness, delivery lead times, and fabrication milestones.

Personnel & Resourcing

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.).

Stakeholder & Governance Management

Establish
and manage a

Joint Executive Steering Committee (JESC)

with key

stakeholders.
Drive
alignment across operatorship, partners, regulators, and contractors.
Prepare
and deliver key steering committee materials and decision briefs.

Project Risk Management

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.

Interface Management

Serve as
the single point of accountability for all

execution interfaces

--subsurface,

drilling, logistics, HSSE, etc.
Resolve
cross-functional disconnects that could compromise schedule, cost, or

safety.
Champion
digital planning tools (e.g., integrated planning software, risk tracking

platforms).








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.

Benefit of Working with Visuna?

A dedicated member of the team responsible for your placements and welfare Some of the best day rates in the industry FREE worldwide insurance and Medevac cover whist on a Placement 24/7 access to our specialist support team Assistance and advice on a range of business topics FREE access to our Competency Scheme * Increased exposure to potential clients and more placement opportunities