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Operations & Projects Leader Oil & Gas (30+ yrs)

Location:
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Posted:
February 27, 2026

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Resume:

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Mohammed Zainul Abdeen

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PROFILE Dynamic and accomplished Project Management & Operations Leader with over 30 years of comprehensive experience overseeing multi-million-dollar Oil & Gas, Petroleum, and Energy sector projects across the Middle East and India. Proven track record in strategic planning, EPC project execution, plant operations, maintenance management, and stakeholder collaboration with government, civil defence and regulatory bodies. Adept at managing end- to-end project lifecycles—from concept and design through commissioning and handover— within stringent safety, quality, and cost parameters. Recognized for driving operational excellence, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maximizing profitability through effective resource utilization, technical expertise, and cross-functional leadership. Core Competencies:

Project & Program Management EPC & FEED Execution Strategic Planning Stakeholder Engagement Risk & Compliance Management Cost & Resource Optimization Maintenance & Operations Excellence Business Development P&L Accountability Contract & Vendor Management Quality & HSE Leadership Team Mentorship & Development

Key Achievements

Delivered multiple large-scale Oil & Gas infrastructure projects (CGD networks, LPG systems, terminals, bottling plants) for ADNOC, DoE, and private operators within schedule and budget.

Directed business operations with turnovers exceeding AED 150 million, achieving sustained revenue growth and operational efficiency improvements.

Implemented fee-based inspection and certification programs at ADNOC, generating new revenue streams and improving compliance transparency.

Reduced system downtime and operational risk by introducing preventive maintenance programs and advanced monitoring systems across large gas networks.

Led multi-disciplinary teams (up to 200+) and managed stakeholders ensuring adherence to NFPA, IGEM, ASME, and UAE Fire codes. KEY EXPERIENCE Strategic Planning

Business Development

Project Management

Operations & Maintenance

Management

Rotating Equipment Installation &

Maintenance

P&L Management

Stakeholder Management

Petroleum Products & LPG Business

Chain Management

Techno-Commercial Negotiations

Statutory & Regulatory Compliance

Auto LPG & CNG Stations

PROFESSION

Project and Operations

Management

NATIONALITY /

LANGUAGES

Indian/English, Hindi, Urdu, Telugu

PROFESSIONAL

ASSOCIATIONS

Project Management

Professional

Professional Member #

100757286- ASME

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering

Certified Central Gas System

Engineer – Dubai Civil Defence –

Ministry of Interior

Certified First Aid and Saving – Civil

Defence, Ajman – Ministry of Interior.

LPG Trade, Market and Price Risk

Management – Argus

Business Plan & Feasibility Study –

Society of Engineers

2/8

EXPERIENCE WITH

ATKINSRÉALIS

(06/2024 - Date)

Project Manager: PMC to Department of Energy, Abu Dhabi, UAE Accountable for Project Management to upgrade & enhance safety of LPG Central Gas Systems in 2300 Buildings & 6400 Food Facilities in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi ensuring compliance with the DoE Regulations, UAE Civil Defence Fire Code, NFPA Codes and International Gas Codes.

Responsibilities:

Lead engagement with diverse stakeholders including Department of Energy

(DoE), remediation contractors (RCs), third-party inspection consultants (TPIs), property owners, and facility management teams to ensure alignment on project objectives and compliance requirements.

Facilitate daily and weekly progress meetings, technical workshops, and brainstorming sessions to resolve bottlenecks, address key challenges, and maintain transparency across all parties.

Coordinate and expedite project execution by aligning planned and actual progress through proactive communication and tracker updates, ensuring timely delivery of milestones.

Project Management of Remediation Contractors (RC), Third Party Inspection Consultants (TPI) Tracking progress of Projects as per planning, coordinate with RCs & TPIs align their progress and meet the planned execution timelines.

Interface with external authorities and building owners to drive compliance with DoE standards, securing Certificates of Compliance (COC) and No Objection Certificates (NOC) for buildings and food facilities.

Review and approve critical documentation including RFQs, engineering proposals, safe isolation reports, and project completion taking over notices

(ToN), ensuring stakeholder expectations and regulatory standards are met.

Verify and approve monthly progress reports and payment claims for TPIs and remediation contractors, maintaining accountability and financial transparency.

Champion collaborative problem-solving by fostering strong relationships among stakeholders and implementing mitigative measures to overcome project challenges.

EXPERIENCE WITH

NATIONAL GAS CO LLC &

MAI RAK LLC

(10/2023 – 05/2024)

General Manager: Business Group Head Profit & Operations Management, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

National Gas & MAI RAK, are a group of companies into LPG & Water Bottling - Distribution, LPG Projects - Central Gas Systems

Directly responsible for the overall management and profitability of the business group, reporting to the Managing Director.

Successfully managed an annual turnover of AED 25 million across a diverse portfolio, including:

- LPG bottling & distribution

- Water bottling & distribution

- LPG projects, Operations & Gas Trading

Spearheaded the introduction and expansion of Central Gas Systems (CGS) as comprehensive turnkey solutions.

Regular liaison with key regulatory and industry bodies including:

- Ministry of Interior – Civil Defence Authorities

- National Oil Companies

- Distributors and Engineering Consultants

- Main and Subcontractors

- Participation in project and business progress meetings

Drive long-term strategic planning and brand positioning, enhancing the company’s market presence and delivery capabilities. EXPERIENCE WITH

ARABIAN GULF

Managing Director: Arabian Gulf Landmark Oil & Gas Services, Muscat, Oman Arabian Gulf Landmark Oil & Gas Services is service provider for Midstream & Downstream Oil & Gas Engineering & Business Services. 3/8

LANDMARK OIL & GAS

SERVICES

(12/2021 – 09/2023)

Responsible for managing overall business operations and profitability with a portfolio valued at OMR 1.5 million.

Oversee business development and engineering services across multiple sectors.

Maintain regular liaison with key government bodies including the Ministry of Energy & Minerals, Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Investment, as well as various engineering consultants and other ministries. EXPERIENCE WITH

SAHUWALA CYLINDERS

PVT LTD,

VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA

(07/2020 – 11/2021)

General Manager: Sahuwala Cylinders Pvt. Ltd. Visakhapatnam India Sahuwala Cylinders Pvt. Ltd. Visakhapatnam India are one of the pioneer manufacturers of LPG, CNG, Auto LPG, Auto-CNG, Industrial Gases and Medical Gas Cylinders and diversified into Jumbo Tanks, Associated Equipment, CNG Cascades, Auto LPG Stations, City Gas Distribution Networks & Central Gas Systems.

Managed business units across ALDS (Auto LPG Dispensing Stations), CGD

(City Gas Distribution), CGS (City Gas Stations), and Oil & Gas Trading, with direct reporting to the Board of Directors.

Accountable for achieving an annual turnover of INR 50 Crores across a diversified portfolio including ALDS, CGD, CGS, and trading operations.

Successfully introduced a new brand of CNG capital equipment, enabling market entry and establishing a niche segment.

Led the pan-India expansion of Auto LPG Dispensing Stations, capturing emerging markets and enhancing nationwide reach.

Drove the rollout and growth of CGS systems across India, offering turnkey total solution models to clients.

Maintained regular engagement with national oil companies, retail dealers, PESO, CCOE, regulatory authorities, engineering consultants, main and subcontractors— actively participating in progress and business review meetings.

Led strategic planning initiatives, implemented quality improvement measures, and drove business development efforts to support sustained company growth. EXPERIENCE WITH IDEAL

GASES FACTORY

TRADING, ABU DHABI,

UAE

(08/2016 – 06/2020)

General Manager: Auto LPG Projects, Auto CNG Cascades, LPG Cylinders & Gas Sales: Ideal Gases Factory Trading, Abu Dhabi, UAE Ideal Gases deals over portfolio of Engineering Consulting, EPC works and Trading in Oil & Gas

o Accountable for full P&L management, company operations, financial audits, and stakeholder reporting.

o Oversaw an annual turnover of AED 25 million across engineering, EPC

(Engineering, Procurement & Construction), and Oil & Gas trading portfolios. o Maintained regular liaison with clients, regulatory authorities, consultants, main and subcontractors—actively involved in coordination and progress meetings addressing design changes and variation claims.

o Led strategic planning, business development, and program management initiatives to build corporate reputation and market recognition. o Key Projects Delivered – Abu Dhabi:

o Storm Water Connection Project

o Relocation of Street Lighting Poles

o Interior Showroom Renovation & Repairs

4/8

EXPERIENCE WITH WOOD

GROUP KENNY, ABU

DHABI, UAE

(07/2012 – 07/2016)

o LPG Specialist: Wood Group Kenny - PMC to ADNOC Distribution Natural Gas Division, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Wood Group Company is a provider of full cycle project management consultancy, Front End Engineering & Design for Petroleum - Oil & Gas Industry specializing in Pipeline Networks, Natural Gas, LPG & SNG City Gas Distribution Networks, Process Design o Accountable for the complete lifecycle management—from conceptual design through pre-commissioning—for new City Gas Distribution (CGD) projects in Abu Dhabi. Oversight included review and approval of gas system designs, inspections of building pipeworks, SNG plants, and underground/aboveground networks, ensuring compliance with ADNOC Distribution, IGEM, NFPA, and UAE Fire Code standards.

o Issued NOCs (No Objection Certificates) post successful completion of design, construction, and safety inspections for commissioning of gas systems and associated infrastructure.

o Provided consultative coordination for gas design review, including adherence to HAZID, HAZOP, and FRA methodologies, ensuring projects comply with local and international safety codes throughout all execution phases. o Led annual inspections and compliance reviews of existing central gas system installations, including third-party validation for NOC revalidation and renewal. o Responsible for multi-stage review and approval of CGD networks—from conceptual and detailed design to construction, site inspection, and commissioning. o Actively contributed to major ADNOC initiatives including: o Natural Gas CGD Network Projects

o CNG Projects across the Emirate

o Market Studies & FEED (Front-End Engineering & Design) o Tender preparation and external authority approvals o Spearheaded the development and implementation of Third Party Service Charges for ADNOC-issued NOCs, creating a new revenue stream and standardizing the NOC issuance and renewal process for NG/SNG/LPG systems, in line with IGEM, NFPA 54/58/59, and UK LPGA COP codes.

o Played a key role in formulating and issuing the tender for selection of “Third Party Inspection & Certification Services” for NG networks, LPG/SNG plants, and CNG/NGV installations.

o Contributed to strategic development efforts including: o Review and comment on the Strategic Business Plan (SBP) for ADNOC’s Natural Gas Distribution Division, as advised by Bain & Company o Participation in FEED tendering processes for metering, billing, O&M, and emergency services

o Regulatory framework development and specification updates for the LPG/SNG value chain, including gas storage yards, networks, and in-building pipework installations across Abu Dhabi

Key Achievement:

o Proposed and secured management approval for introducing a fee structure for ADNOC’s third-party review and NOC issuance services, enhancing departmental revenue and improving the efficiency and transparency of the gas project commissioning process

EXPERIENCE WITH

INTEGRATED GAS

SERVICES, DUBAI, UAE

(03/2010 – 06/2012)

Operations Manager: Integrated Gas Services, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Integrated Gas Services is Sergas Group of Companies, and a service provider of solutions in terms of LPG, NG, SNG, Industrial Gases & Petroleum Systems Design, Supply, Installation, Operation & Maintenance of gas systems o Head of Gas Operations, Strategy & Business Development – LPG & SNG Systems

o Accountable for strategic planning, P&L ownership, annual budgeting, customer service, and sales performance across a complex gas infrastructure portfolio comprising 200+ centralized gas systems and a large bulk transportation fleet. o Oversaw 24/7 operations and emergency response, ensuring regulatory compliance, service continuity, and customer satisfaction. o Directed end-to-end operations, construction, and maintenance across a diverse portfolio:

o Central Gas Systems in residential, commercial, industrial settings o Storage tank yards, in-building pipeworks, aboveground/underground gas networks

5/8

o Bulk Fleet Operations including semi-trailers (55,000L) and bobtails (10,000– 25,000L)

o Gas Sales via bulk transfer and metered billing systems o Gas Projects with progressive inspection, system expansion planning, and capacity augmentation

o Led Business Development initiatives, including: o Feasibility studies and proposals tailored to client needs o Assessment of under- and over-capacity systems for upgrade or optimization o Client retention and competitive defence strategies to stabilize and expand market share

o Introduced collaborative strategic frameworks with competitors to ensure healthy market dynamics, future-proof growth, and shared risk management for expansion plans.

o Conducted internal audits on metering, supply chain, maintenance, emergency services, and customer interactions—implementing corrective and preventive actions based on root cause analysis.

o Proposed and evaluated BOT, BOOT, and BOO models for project development under varying commercial and operational scenarios. o Key leader in ISO Management System implementation, ensuring alignment across all departments with a focus on minimizing NCRs and reinforcing a culture of continuous improvement.

o Actively involved in contract negotiations and proposals with major clients, consultants, vendors, and contractors, helping secure long-term partnerships and strategic deals.

o Landmark Projects – LPG & SNG Systems (Construction & Operations) o High-Profile Developments:

o Mall of the Emirates, Mirdiff City Centre, Deira City Centre, Ras Al Khaimah City Centre, Lulu Mall Fujairah

o Major Industrial Clients:

o Elite Group, Swiss Arabian Perfumes, RAK Ceramics, Emirates Metallic Industries (EMIC), Canpack Middle East, Al Zamil Steel (RAK) o Key Achievements

o Secured and sustained market share through strategic negotiations with competitors and expansion into underserved areas.

o Increased profitability by sourcing cost-efficient gas supplies and streamlining operational overheads.

o Reduced operational losses and ambiguities across pressure regulation, metering, and billing—enhancing transparency and customer trust. o Implemented centralized monitoring systems across: o Bulk Logistics, Gas Sales, O&M, Customer Service, and Projects departments o Conducted data-driven performance analysis to optimize profit margins and maintain competitiveness.

o Led preventive maintenance initiatives after root cause diagnosis of recurring system failures—resulting in minimized downtime, optimized inventory use, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

o Led the Dubai Division with full P&L accountability, overseeing an annual turnover of AED 50 million from LP Gas System Projects and Gas Sales. o Maintained regular liaison with consultants, main contractors, and subcontractors, actively participating in coordination and progress meetings to resolve design changes, variation claims, and out-of-scope issues. o Expedited project execution by managing materials availability, resource allocation, drawing submittals/approvals, and monitoring payment milestones linked to work progress.

EXPERIENCE WITH

SHIELD GAS SYSTEMS,

DUBAI, UAE

(08/2009 – 02/2010)

Division Head: LPG Projects & Gas Sales: Shield Gas Systems Dubai Region, UAE

Shield Gas Systems is part of Shield Group of Companies providing solutions in terms of LP Gas Systems Design, Installation, Operation & Maintenance

Led the Dubai Division with full P&L accountability, overseeing an annual turnover of AED 50 million from LP Gas System Projects and Gas Sales.

Maintained regular liaison with consultants, main contractors, and subcontractors, actively participating in coordination and progress meetings to resolve design changes, variation claims, and out-of-scope issues. 6/8

Expedited project execution by managing materials availability, resource allocation, drawing submittals/approvals, and monitoring payment milestones linked to work progress.

Key Projects Delivered:

Lulu Hypermarket – Dibba, Fujairah (Completed)

Al Ittihad Mall – Al Mirdiff, Dubai (Completed)

Lulu Hypermarket – Ras Al Khaimah (Ongoing/Completed) Highlights:

Successfully resolved project delays and payment blocks by negotiating reduced variation claims in exchange for the release of six months’ pending payments and expedited material approvals—facilitating the timely completion of two major commercial projects.

EXPERIENCE WITH

BROTHERS GAS, DUBAI,

UAE

(07/2001 – 07/2009)

Division Head: LPG & Petroleum Products Sales, Distribution & Terminal Operations: Brothers Gas Bottling & Distribution Company, Dubai, UAE Brothers Gas Company is a part of Al Ghurair Trading Group and a need provider of LPG in terms of LPG Storage, Transportation, Bottling, Distribution in bulk and cylinders, supports in Maintenance of CGS Systems, APG, Petroleum Products Supplies and Diversifying to Industrial Gases.

Managed an annual turnover of AED 150 million, overseeing end-to-end operations in LPG, petroleum product sales, and distribution, including bulk logistics, bottling plants, and storage facilities.

Led strategic planning, budgeting, P&L management, ROI analysis, and market expansion, while ensuring operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and regulatory compliance.

Established and maintained high-level partnerships with regional and global oil & gas entities including ADNOC, ENOC, RAK Gas, Oman Refinery, RAS Gas, BAPCO, KPC, NIOC, Petronas, ITOCHU, Shell Gas India, SHV Pakistan, BP Australia, and others.

Directed production, operations, and maintenance of bottling plants, road tanker fleets, delivery tankers, and pick-up networks for bottled gas.

Responsible for FEED, tendering, EPC execution, commissioning, and integration of new LPG terminal and bottling facilities.

Led ASME-standard procurement of LPG bobtails and semi-trailers, including specialized variants for propane, aerosol, and liquid withdrawal applications.

Maintained critical supply-demand balance, overseeing inventory, transportation logistics, and customer fulfilment across multiple facilities.

Provided customized operational solutions for high-volume clients, aligning delivery and safety practices to client-specific requirements. Major Projects Delivered:

LPG Terminal & Bottling Plants – Ajman & Ras Al Khaimah: Full-cycle execution from concept and FEED to EPC, commissioning, and ongoing O&M.

Aerosol & Cutting Gas Business Line: Feasibility studies, market research, design, EPC, and launch operations.

Integrated Terminal – Petroleum, LPG & Industrial Gases: Conceptual design and business planning for multi-product handling facilities. Key Highlights & Achievements:

Managed transportation of 80,000 MT of LPG annually using a fleet of 16 road tankers, with precise planning from refinery to terminal and onward to customers.

Achieved 800% growth in sales revenue and tenfold expansion of division assets over a 4-year period as Division Head.

Led successful expansions in:

New distribution centres (e.g., Ras Al Khaimah)

500 MT LPG Storage & Bottling Plant in Madha, Oman

Fleet augmentation with advanced, ASME-compliant LPG transport systems 7/8

Launched new product lines including aerosol propellant gas, diesel, and fuel oil, diversifying revenue streams and customer base.

Implemented ISO 9001 quality management system within the division.

Negotiated and finalized deals for new facility development, ensuring regulatory, commercial, and operational alignment.

Successfully managed a high-risk LPG tanker rollover recovery operation in Abu Dhabi:

Coordinated with Civil Defence and Police, Cordon of a 2 km safety radius

Executed accident recovery with zero third-party liability, preventing major loss or incident.

EXPERIENCE WITH T.

MAXWELL RAFFERTY,

VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA

(07/1995 – 06/2001)

Senior Project Engineer – Refinery Expansion & EPC Works Mechanical & Shutdown Projects: T. Maxwell Rafferty, Visakhapatnam - India T. Maxwell Rafferty is service provider of Downstream EPC Works for Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) – Visakh Refinery

Led full-cycle project management from inception to handover for regional operations involving installation, commissioning, and maintenance of refinery expansion projects under EPC contracts.

Accountable for the pre-fabrication and on-site fabrication of suction/discharge spools, process piping, platforms, equipment base frames, and supporting structures.

Oversaw installation and alignment of heavy rotating equipment, including:

- Hayward Tyler – Byron Jackson 500KW Steam Turbines

- Goulds Salt Water Booster Pumps – 500KW

- Stork Pompen Low-Lift Pumps – 800KW

- Worthington Boiler Feed Water Pumps – 200KW

- Goulds High-Lift Pumps – 500KW

Directed and executed planned shutdowns for major refinery units such as FCCU, CDU, SRU, PRU, WWTP, DMU, Asphalt Plant, HLPH, LLPH, and CPP-HRSG,

ensuring adherence to safety, scope, and schedule priorities.

Liaised extensively with client project departments (e.g., VREP-I & II), consultants, and material procurement teams to ensure timely approvals, material flow, and technical coordination.

Reviewed equipment designs and proposed modifications aligned to site conditions for improved operability and maintainability.

Coordinated vendor engagement, RA billing, variation approvals, and handled cross- functional interface with consultants, contractors, and client management to drive project timelines.

Implemented advance material planning strategies to pre-empt delays and streamline project execution.

Key Projects Executed (with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. & NMDC):

Mechanical Equipment Maintenance – HPCL (1995)

Preventive Maintenance, Additional Tankage Project – HPCL (1996)

Mechanical Equipment Installation & Commissioning – HPCL (1997)

Hydraulic Damper Fabrication & Erection, CDU-I – HPCL (1998)

LPG Spherical Tanks – Pin & Washer Installation – HPCL (1998)

Rotating Equipment Repairs – VREP-II – HPCL (1999)

Structural Repairs, Vibratory Screens – NMDC (1998)

Garland Idlers Fabrication & Installation – NMDC (1998)

Pump & Motor Commissioning – Old HLPH – HPCL (2000)

Conversion of Turbine to Motor Drives, CDU-I Plant – HPCL (2000)

Turbine-to-Motor Drive Conversion – High Lift Pump House – HPCL (2001) 8/8

Key Achievements

Optimized shutdown execution by allocating teams and resources based on project priority and specialization, resulting in early completion of FCCU, CDU, and SRU shutdowns.

Successfully executed multiple overhauls of High Lift & Low Lift Pump House (HLPH

& LLPH) systems, ensuring continuous support to critical refinery operations including fire water circulation, heat exchange, and wastewater recycling.

Maintained critical equipment availability with on-call teams, standby transport, and coordination with fire & safety teams for urgent interventions.

Delivered refinery maintenance training and safety procedures workshops to project teams to elevate site readiness and compliance. EXPERIENCE WITH T.

SECON LTD.,

VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA

01/1995 – 06/1995

Engineer In charge: Site (Internship): SECON Ltd, Visakhapatnam - India Key Projects Handled:

Fabrication of Super Structure for Slipway Facilities – Naval Dockyard, 1995

Mechanical Equipment Maintenance – Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd., Visakh Refinery, 1995

Overhaul of Booster Air Compressor – Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd., 1995

Fabrication of Clamping Strips on Vibratory Screens – National Mineral Development Corporation, Screening Plant, 1995

Replacement of Bearings in Vibratory Screens – National Mineral Development Corporation, Screening Plant, 1995

Overhaul of Boiler Feed Water Pumps – Power Plants I & II, Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd., 1995

Project Highlights

Successfully completed fabrication and installation of naval dockyard superstructure for slipway facilities, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.

ACADEMIA Education & Certifications:

B.E. (Mechanical Engineering) – Gulbarga University, India

Certifications:

PMP – Project Management Professional (PMI)

Certified Central Gas System Engineer – Dubai Civil Defence

First Aid & Fire Safety – Civil Defence, Ajman

Business Plan & Feasibility Study – Society of Engineers

Professional Member – ASME (#100757286)

Technical & IT Skills:

Primavera P3 MS Project MS Office Suite Engineering Design & Review Risk Assessment Tools Web-based Reporting Systems

Professional Development:

o NFPA 54, 58, 30, 326 Workshops (Dubai)

o LPG Trade & Risk Management (Singapore)

o Leadership – Care & Growth Model (Dubai)

o LPG Trade Summits (Dubai, Doha)

o Quality Symposium – Dubai Quality Group



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