Deputy CEO Job in Oil and Gas Industry, Nairobi Kenya

Job Description

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A leading petroleum and energy company is inviting applications from experienced professionals for the position of Deputy CEO, based in Nairobi. Reporting directly to the CEO and Board of Directors, the Deputy CEO will play a pivotal role in supporting the company’s strategic direction, operational performance, and governance, ensuring safe, compliant, and profitable execution of business activities.

This executive-level position offers the opportunity to influence high-level decision-making, drive organizational growth, and lead a high-performing team within the dynamic petroleum and energy sector.

Job Purpose

The Deputy CEO will partner with the CEO to execute corporate strategy, enhance operational efficiency, strengthen governance frameworks, and build organizational capability. The role focuses on driving business performance, fostering leadership development, and ensuring the safe, compliant, and profitable operation of all petroleum-related activities.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy and Execution

• Support the development and execution of corporate strategy and annual operating plans.
• Translate strategic objectives into measurable initiatives and ensure delivery across all functions.
• Lead strategic reviews, identify growth opportunities, and propose investment priorities.
• Monitor industry trends and competitive dynamics to inform leadership decisions.

Operational Leadership and Performance

• Oversee day-to-day operations across key functions, including operations, supply chain, commercial, and finance as assigned.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), driving accountability and continuous improvement.
• Promote operational excellence, cost optimization, and service quality improvements.
• Ensure business continuity, operational efficiency, and timely resolution of critical issues.

Governance, Risk, HSE, and Compliance

• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with health, safety, environment (HSE), and regulatory requirements.
• Strengthen enterprise risk management, internal controls, and compliance frameworks.
• Support incident escalation, investigation, and corrective action governance.

Stakeholder and Business Development Support

• Maintain relationships with key stakeholders, regulators, strategic partners, and major clients.
• Support negotiation and oversight of major contracts and strategic partnerships.
• Represent the company in high-level engagements as delegated by the CEO.

Leadership and Talent Development

• Build, coach, and develop a high-performing leadership team.
• Drive alignment across departments and enhance cross-functional collaboration.
• Support succession planning and leadership development programs to strengthen organizational capability.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Energy Management, or a related field; MBA is a strong advantage.
• Minimum of 12–15 years of leadership experience, preferably in the oil & gas, energy, or related sectors.
• Proven track record in driving business performance and strategic execution.
• Strong commercial acumen, including experience in contract management and financial oversight.
• Solid understanding of HSE, regulatory compliance, and risk management within the petroleum industry.
• Exceptional leadership, stakeholder management, and executive decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills at board and executive levels.
• Ability to operate effectively under pressure in complex, dynamic environments.
• Experience in organizational transformation and change management is an added advantage.
• High integrity, governance-focused, and results-oriented mindset.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should submit a comprehensive CV and cover letter through the company’s official careers portal or application link provided by the organization. Early application is encouraged.