GM - Government, JV and External Relations.

ROLE SUMMARY

This is an executive position responsible for shaping and executing HEOSL's strategy across government engagement, joint venture partnerships, and external relations. The successful candidate will operate at the intersection of policy, commerce, and reputation building and sustaining trusted relationships with key stakeholders including NNPC, NPDC, NUPRC, NMDPRA, joint venture partners, regulatory bodies, and the media.

This role demands a strategic thinker with deep political acumen, impeccable integrity, and a proven ability to navigate complex, multi-stakeholder environments. The ideal candidate will combine a commanding understanding of Nigeria's energy landscape with the diplomatic finesse to influence outcomes, resolve conflicts, and advance HEOSL's interests while upholding the highest ethical standards.

At HEOSL, we are looking for a leader who shares our commitment to inclusion someone who values diverse perspectives, champions transparency, and models the collaborative, enterprise-first mindset that defines our culture

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Advisory

• Lead, develop, and motivate the Government, JV and External Relations team, fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and inclusion.


• Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Leadership Team, providing strategic counsel on political, regulatory, and partnership matters.


• Develop and execute comprehensive government relations strategies that anticipate risks, identify opportunities, and advance HEOSL's business objectives.


• Monitor and analyze policy developments, legislative changes, and regulatory trends at local, regional, and national levels.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Management

• Build and sustain strong, collaborative relationships with key government officials, regulators (NNPC, NPDC, NUPRC, NMDPRA), joint venture partners, and industry bodies.


• Facilitate effective communication and alignment between HEOSL and its partners, ensuring shared understanding of objectives and mutual value creation.


• Proactively identify and resolve stakeholder concerns, maintaining trust and preserving HEOSL's social license to operate.


• Represent HEOSL at industry forums, conferences, and high-level meetings, enhancing our profile and influence.

Corporate Communications & Reputation

• Oversee the development and execution of internal and external communication strategies that strengthen HEOSL's brand and reputation.


• Manage media relations, including proactive engagement, press releases, and crisis communication, ensuring consistent and accurate messaging.


• Monitor public sentiment and media coverage, providing insights and recommendations to leadership.


• Champion initiatives that showcase HEOSL's contributions to Nigeria's energy sector, economic development, and host communities.

Commercial & Cost Recovery

• Partner with Finance and commercial teams to ensure timely and accurate cost recovery from joint venture partners.


• Provide strategic input on joint venture agreements, commercial negotiations, and partnership frameworks.


• Identify opportunities to enhance value creation within existing and future partnerships.

Change Management & Organizational Development

• Support major organizational change initiatives, ensuring stakeholder alignment and smooth implementation.


• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and agility within the function and across the organization.

Leadership & Talent Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, creating pathways for growth and advancement.


• Foster an inclusive work environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed and every team member can thrive.


• Ensure adherence to all company policies, including safety, ethics, anti-corruption, and DEI guidelines.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Education 

Bachelor's degree in Law, Political Science, International Relations, Business/Public Administration, or a related field. An advanced degree is strongly preferred.

Experience

Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in government relations, public affairs, or external relations within the oil and gas industry, with at least 8 years in a leadership capacity.

Industry Knowledge

Deep understanding of Nigeria's political and regulatory landscape, including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), NNPC/NUPRC/NMDPRA frameworks, and joint venture operating models.

Track Record

Proven success in building and sustaining relationships with senior government officials, regulators, and joint venture partners. Demonstrated ability to navigate complex, high-stakes situations with diplomacy and discretion.

COMPETENCIES & PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Competency

Description

Strategic Thinking

Ability to anticipate future trends, assess complex environments, and develop long-term strategies that align with organizational goals.

Political & Regulatory Acumen

Deep understanding of Nigeria's political and regulatory landscape, with the ability to navigate complexity and influence outcomes.

Stakeholder Engagement

Exceptional relationship-building skills, with the ability to earn trust, manage expectations, and align diverse interests.

Communication & Influence

Outstanding written and verbal communication skills; ability to craft compelling narratives and influence at the highest levels.

Leadership & Team Development

Proven ability to lead, mentor, and inspire teams; commitment to fostering an inclusive and high-performance culture.

Problem-Solving & Judgment

Analytical mindset with sound judgment; ability to make decisions in ambiguous, high-pressure situations.

Integrity & Ethics

Unwavering commitment to transparency, ethical conduct, and anti-corruption principles.

Cross-Cultural Competence

Sensitivity to cultural differences and ability to work effectively across diverse stakeholder groups.

WHY JOIN HERITAGE ENERGY?

At HEOSL, you will:

• Lead at the intersection of policy, partnership, and performance in one of Nigeria's most strategic assets.


• Work alongside a leadership team committed to excellence, integrity, and inclusion.


• Shape the future of an organization that is proud of its indigenous roots and global outlook.


• Contribute to Nigeria's energy security and economic development in a role that truly matters.

We are building a workplace where differences are celebrated, talent is nurtured, and everyone has the opportunity to make an impact. If you share our values and are ready to lead at the highest level, we want to hear from you.

HERITAGE ENERGY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.