HSE Country Manager

About the role

We are seeking an experienced HSE Country Manager to lead Health, Safety and Environmental (HSSE) activities for an oilfield services client in Damascus, Syria. The role requires strategic oversight of HSE policies, compliance with local and international standards, and fostering a proactive safety culture across all operational sites.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, implement and continuously improve the HSE management system in line with corporate policies and ISO 45001/ISO 14001 standards.
• Ensure compliance with Syrian HSE regulations, client requirements and international best practices.
• Lead HSE strategy execution across all project locations and oversee contractor HSE performance.
• Establish HSE objectives, KPIs and performance monitoring, conducting regular audits and inspections.
• Direct incident investigations, root‑cause analysis and corrective action programs.
• Manage emergency response planning, crisis management and business continuity preparedness.
• Oversee environmental protection programmes, including waste management and pollution prevention.
• Develop and deliver HSE training, awareness campaigns and competency programmes.
• Prepare and present HSE performance reports to senior management and clients.
• Liaise with government authorities, clients and external stakeholders on HSE matters.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science or related field.
• Professional HSE certifications (NEBOSH Diploma, NVQ Level 6, CSP, CMIOSH, CRSP) preferred.
• 8+ years progressive HSE experience in oil & gas, including upstream, drilling, production or EPC projects.
• Previous experience in the Middle East or similarly challenging environments.
• Strong leadership, people‑management and stakeholder‑engagement abilities.

Required skills

• ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 implementation
• Risk management and permit‑to‑work systems
• Incident investigation and root‑cause analysis
• Emergency response and crisis management
• Environmental monitoring and waste management