Business Challenge

A major upstream oil and gas producer operating in a remote region of Central Africa required ongoing HSE and environmental leadership to support complex field operations spanning production, drilling, pipeline, and seismic activities. Operating in an isolated environment with evolving regulatory and stakeholder expectations, the client needed consistent, high-quality HSE support to maintain compliance with corporate standards and ensure safe, environmentally responsible operations. The client also sought support for developing local capacity and improving long-term workforce sustainability.

Objectives & Success Criteria

The client sought to:

• Maintain continuous on-site HSE and environmental support with experienced professionals.
• Support safe execution of all field activities, including drilling, seismic, pipeline, and production.
• Strengthen internal HSE and environmental governance.
• Build local capability through training, mentorship, and hands-on field coaching.

Success was measured by long-term compliance, improved operational safety performance, positive audit outcomes, and increased competence among local personnel. 

PMO Solution (What We Did)

PMO deployed a robust team of senior Health and Safety and Environmental professionals embedded within the client’s operations on a long-term basis. These specialists provided full-spectrum field coverage and strategic guidance across all operational areas, including drilling, pipeline construction, seismic programs, and day-to-day production activities. PMO supported implementation of corporate standards by developing and monitoring environmental management programs, conducting environmental field monitoring, and overseeing operational controls. HSE advisors delivered hazard identification, inspections, contractor oversight, and incident prevention activities, while also training and mentoring local staff to build sustainable in-country capacity. 

Key Components / Activities

 Long-term deployment of senior HSE and environmental personnel

• Field-level HSE oversight across drilling, seismic, pipeline, and production operations
• Hazard identification, inspections, and contractor management
• Development and delivery of training and capacity-building programs
• Emergency management support and readiness activities
• Continuous improvement of HSE and environmental systems and performance 

Outcomes &Impact

Over more than a decade, PMO has supported the client in maintaining compliant, safe, and environmentally responsible operations across all field activities. PMO’s embedded team has contributed to sustained regulatory compliance, improved operational discipline, and stronger safety and environmental culture. Local team members have gained skills and confidence through PMO-led training and mentorship, supporting long-term operational resilience and reduced reliance on expatriate personnel. 

Lessons Learned / Challenges Overcome

Working in remote regions presents unique challenges, including limited infrastructure, diverse cultural considerations, and variable contractor competency. PMO overcame these challenges by deploying experienced advisors with strong adaptability, cultural awareness, and technical expertise. A key lesson learned is the importance of pairing operational HSE oversight with long-term capacity development to create durable improvements in workforce capability and environmental stewardship. 

Value Proposition Summary

PMO has delivered sustained, high-impact HSE and environmental support to a major upstream operator in Central Africa for more than a decade. By integrating field expertise with environmental management international best practices and local workforce development, PMO has strengthened safety performance, enhanced environmental compliance, and supported long-term operational sustainability.This project demonstrates PMO’s ability to deliver comprehensive, multi-year HSE and environmental support in complex and remote operating environments.