Senior Program Manager - Subsurface & Wells

Job description / Role

Purpose of the job

The primary responsibility of the Senior Program Manager - Subsurface & Wells is to lead the end-to-end management of the IDAP software deployment program, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and the delivery of tangible business value. This role spans the full program lifecycle—from initiation and planning to execution, monitoring, and closure.

The Program Manager ensures successful delivery by managing scope, schedule, budget, risks, and stakeholder expectations. The position demands a strong focus on value delivery within the Subsurface & Wells domain, along with effective governance and cross-functional coordination to embed program outcomes into business operations. Clear communication, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement are essential to success in this role.

Dimensions / critical interfaces

• Budget responsibility: No direct budget ownership, but accountable for efficient resource utilization and cost-effective delivery across program initiatives.
• Team leadership: Proven ability to lead medium to large cross-functional teams, including internal staff, consultants, and third-party vendors, throughout the program lifecycle.
• Internal interfaces:
  • Business units: Close collaboration with Exploration & Production (E&P) portfolio leads and business consultants to ensure alignment with operational goals.
  • Corporate functions: Regular engagement with Corporate Functional Discipline Heads (CFDHs) to ensure compliance with corporate standards and enterprise architecture.
  • IM&T functions: Coordination with analysts, developers, testers, and project managers; alignment with the PMO to uphold governance and methodologies.
  • Support functions: Liaison with Supply Chain Managers, Information Security, Compliance, and IM&T Strategy for holistic and compliant program delivery.
• External interfaces: Active management of local and international vendors, consultants, and contractors to ensure quality delivery, service level adherence, and compliance with the company's standards.
• Customers: Serve an internal user base of over 8,000 employees, primarily from E&P and corporate functions, ensuring delivery of user-centric and value-driven digital solutions.

Experience / qualifications required

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electronics, or related field.
• 15+ years of experience in project management, including 5+ years in program management focused on enterprise applications and digital initiatives in the energy sector.
• Strong domain knowledge in Subsurface & Wells functions.
• Mandatory project management certifications: PMP or PRINCE2.
• Preferred certifications: PgMP, PMI-ACP, or Certified Scrum Master (CSM).
• Proven experience with application programs in the Exploration & Production (E&P) segment of the oil and gas industry.
• Demonstrated success in leading digital transformation, data analytics, and AI/ML initiatives.
• Expertise in both Agile and Waterfall methodologies, including experience with Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) software.
• Strong understanding of SDLC, PMO governance, project lifecycles, and enterprise delivery standards.
• Experience gathering and translating complex business and technical requirements into actionable delivery plans.
• Skilled in risk identification, assessment, mitigation, and escalation. PMI-RMP certification is advantageous.
• Experience in end-to-end procurement activities, including vendor selection, contract management, and RFP/RFI processes.
• Proficient in budgeting, forecasting, and financial tracking.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; able to interface with all levels of the organization.
• Skilled in project/program management tools (e.g., MS Project, Office Suite, collaborative platforms).

Principal accountabilities

• Lead and manage the full program lifecycle, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and adherence to governance and delivery frameworks.
• Engage stakeholders regularly to align goals, gather feedback, and manage expectations.
• Develop and maintain detailed program plans, schedules, resource allocations, and interdependency mapping.
• Coordinate across internal teams and external vendors to drive integrated, timely delivery.
• Oversee multiple concurrent projects, ensuring delivery within defined scope, time, and cost constraints.
• Drive innovation by facilitating feasibility studies, proofs of concept, and technology pilots.
• Proactively manage risks and issues, escalating as needed with mitigation and recovery plans in place.
• Forecast, acquire, and manage resources in coordination with line managers to support key milestones.
• Ensure all deliverables meet quality standards and contractual obligations.
• Report program performance to executive stakeholders using clear and concise metrics.
• Lead communication planning, documentation, and meeting governance.
• Manage change requests and assess impacts on scope, budget, and timeline.
• Oversee development of training, user guides, and operational handover materials.
• Secure formal approvals and ensure closure of projects and contracts upon successful delivery.
• Conduct post-implementation reviews and capture lessons learned for continuous improvement.
• Ensure accurate documentation and compliance with the company's PMO standards and policies.
• Promote a culture of safety and ensure compliance with the company's HSE policies across all program activities.

About the Company

We lead in the creation and delivery of innovative workforce solutions and services that enable our clients to win in the changing world of work.

ManpowerGroup powers the success of many of the world's most dynamic organizations. We deliver innovative workforce solutions that enhance competitiveness, increase efficiency and spur productivity. Combining global reach with local expertise - 3600 offices in over 80 countries - we know the changing world of work and bring a deep understanding of the companies we work for and the industries we service.

ManpowerGroup entered the Middle East in December 2007 after acquiring local company Clarendon Parker, thus bringing 15 years in-depth local knowledge combined with a global footprint and industry shaping expertise and thought leadership. Manpower Middle East supports clients in the Middle East and North Africa regions. Our business is aligned to key skill specializations to ensure our clients requirements are met by expert and knowledgeable consultants that understand your industry and role requirement.

Our consultants are experts in finding the right talent across all industries in a broad-range of occupations including:

• IT & Telecommunications
• Engineering & Construction, Oil & Gas
• Banking, Finance & Legal
• Sales & Business Development
• Marketing, Public Relations & Communications
• Human Resources & Training
• Customer & Support Services (Secretarial and Administrative)
• Operational, Supply Chain & Logistics
• Executive Recruitment
• Emiratization Solutions
• Recruitment Program Outsourcing Solutions
• Managed Service Provider Solutions
• Talent Based Outsourcing Solutions
• Outsourced Staffing Solutions