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Global HSSE Leader with 25+ Years Experience

Location:
Khobar, Eastern, Saudi Arabia
Posted:
January 11, 2026

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Resume:

Commander (Retd) Chaudhry Sarfraz Afzal Wahla TI(M) PSc PN

LEED GA - SIIRSM-AIOSH-IPGDOSH (NVQ 6) -NEBOSH-OSHA Train the Trainer OSHA Professional- ISO 45001-2018 ISO 14001-2015 Location: KHOBAR, Saudi Arabia (with transferable Iqama) Email: *********@*****.*** Cell No.: 009*********** Global HSSE Leader - 25+ Years of Safety Governance, Risk Mitigation & Compliance Excellence An experienced, dynamic, and results-oriented health, safety, and environmental professional with over 25 years of experience in shaping HSSE strategies for a range of complex construction projects. Senior HSSE / QHSE / EHS Director with 25+ years of leadership in Health, Safety, Security, and Environment management across oil & gas, high-rise construction, infrastructure, and industrial projects in the Middle East and GCC. Proven track record in building and leading safety management systems, achieving ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 certifications, and driving compliance with Saudi Building Code, Aramco, Civil Defense, and international standards. Recognized for reducing incidents, mitigating risks, and implementing cost-effective safety solutions that improved operational efficiency and regulatory compliance. Skilled in risk assessment, audits, incident investigation, emergency response, training, and stakeholder engagement. Experienced in guiding multinational teams, contractors, and consultants to create a strong safety culture that aligns with both client and legal requirements.

Leadership and Strategic Direction: Provide leadership and strategic direction as the HSSE Global Director, guiding the development and implementation of HSSE policies, programs, and initiatives across all global operations.

Risk Management and Compliance: Oversee the identification, assessment, and management of HSSE risks and hazards globally. Develop and implement robust systems and processes to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards.

Stakeholder Engagement: Foster strong relationships and collaboration with internal stakeholders, including executive leadership, operational teams, and employees, to promote a shared commitment to HSSE; build partnerships and promote HSSE best practices.

Compliance and Accountability in HSE - Guaranteed compliance with HSE legislation, regulations, rules, standards, and requirements. Implemented an effective system for investigating, reporting, and estimating the cost of injuries, damage, and other incidents. Core Skills: HSE Strategic Planning & Analysis • HSSE Risk Mitigation & Management • JHA/JSA • Emergency Plans & Procedures • ISO 45001 • Audits

• OSHA & ISO Compliance • HSSE Investigation & Inspection • Site & Program Audits • API, NFPA, and ANSI Compliance • Roots Cause Analysis • HSE Training Analysis & Best Practices • Confined Space Operations • Safety Leadership • HSSE Metrics • Work Permit & Regulatory Compliance CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Top Contractor for Quality and Safety & Environment

• Recognized by Saudi Electric Company as top contractor for HSE compliance and safety management out of 12 contractors. ISO 9001, 14001, and ISO 4001-2018 Audits

• Led and conducted 45 external audits for ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001-2018 certifications.

• Successfully obtained ISO 9001 and OHSAS 45001-2018 certifications. Strategic Leadership for HSE Cost Reduction

• Initiated strategic leadership measures resulting in a 30% reduction in Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) costs.

• Established a system of checks and balances to ensure efficient resource allocation and cost optimization. Significant Accident Rate Reduction

• Ideated new initiatives to raise safety standards, leading to a reduction in the accident rate from 07 to 01 within a year.

• Focused on creating a safe working environment through proactive measures and comprehensive training programs. Karachi Port Security Force to International Standards

• Overhauled the Karachi Port Security Force following the 9/11 attacks, bringing it up to international standards.

• Instigated robust security measures and protocols to enhance the port's security and safeguard against potential threats. Work EXPERIENCE

Colliers Project Leaders – PMC Senior HSE & Quality Manager – GCC Business Unit Khobar, Saudi Arabia 2022 – Present

Projects: High-Rise NUBO Hotel & Residence, Ritz Carlton, Intercontinental Resort, Remal Business Center

• Directed QHSE / HSE strategy and compliance across high-rise (36+ stories) and civil infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia and the GCC region.

• Ensured full compliance with Saudi Building Code, Civil Defense, Ministry of HRSD, Dubai Municipality regulations, QHSE standards, and international ISO requirements.

• Championed a proactive QHSE culture, implementing policies, training, and monitoring that resulted in improved safety KPIs and reduced incidents across multiple project sites.

• Developed and implemented the QHSE Management System, covering policies, procedures, audits, inspections, training, and reporting obligations.

• Spearheaded the adoption of innovative QHSE tools, digital reporting platforms, and best practices, ensuring alignment with global safety standards.

• Delivered comprehensive QHSE training and development programs to employees and contractors, raising competency and regulatory awareness at all levels.

• Conducted detailed QHSE audits, inspections, and risk assessments, identifying non-conformances and implementing corrective actions for continuous improvement.

• Acted as strategic advisor to senior leadership and clients, embedding HSE considerations into decision-making, project planning, and risk mitigation strategies.

Arabian Gulf Construction Company – Zamil Group Corporate HSSE / HSE Manager – Aramco Projects Khobar, Saudi Arabia 2019 – 2022

Projects: Well Core Facilities, Safwa, Rahima, Sehat

• Leadership and Expertise - Drove functions: HSSE, emergency responses, disaster preparedness, incident management, accident report writing, and risk assessment.

• Consultation and Compliance - Provided expert advice and consultation to department staff, confirming a safe working environment in full compliance with environmental and safety regulations, standards, and practices.

• Safety Initiatives and Performance – Executed multiple new initiatives that significantly raised safety standards, resulting in a substantial reduction of Lost Time Incidents (LTIs) from 16 incidents to just 2 annually.

• Integrated Management System - Held accountability as the point of contact for the General Manager of HSSE, overseeing the implementation and maintenance of an Integrated Management System (IMS) with ISO protocols, procedures, and supporting documentation.

• Safety Culture and Continuous Improvement - Collaborated directly with IMI Management and site Management teams to foster a world-class safety culture focused on continuous improvement via effective use and implementation of OH&S management system.

• Security and Asset Protection - Enforced a zero-tolerance approach to security functions, including the physical security and safety of employees, warehouse/depot facilities, and company assets.

Azmeel Holding Pvt. Ltd. Senior HSSE / HSE Manager – Aramco Haradh Project (SAR 1 billion) Dammam, Saudi Arabia 2017 – 2019

Projects: TCF 1 – Hufof, TCF 2 – Al Kharj, TCF 3 – Haradh

• Directed HSSE / HSE management across a SAR 1 billion Aramco Haradh project, overseeing a workforce of 3,000+ employees and managing a safety budget of SAR 10 million.

• Designed and implemented a comprehensive Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) program, significantly enhancing compliance with ISO 45001, ISO 14001, and Aramco HSE standards.

• Implemented a Behavior-Based Safety (BBS) Program, driving organizational engagement, conducting 52 safety committee meetings, and training 550+ personnel in safety practices.

• Recognized over 670 employees with safety awards, boosting morale, participation, and a culture of accountability in workplace safety.

• Served as lead trainer and facilitator for HSSE, delivering safety inductions, toolbox talks, and committee workshops to strengthen awareness and competency.

• Directed recruitment, training, and performance management of HSSE engineers, coordinators, supervisors, and officers to maintain a high- performing safety team.

• Investigated incidents and near-misses, prepared detailed reports, and implemented corrective/preventive measures, resulting in stronger risk control and reduced recurrence.

• Maintained 100% legal and regulatory compliance across occupational health, safety, and environmental requirements, ensuring alignment with Saudi regulations and Aramco standards.

Azmeel Contracting Pvt. Ltd. HSSE / HSE Manager

Jizan Economic City, Saudi Arabia 2015 – 2017

Aramco JEC 2000 Home Lot Development & Pipeline (SAR 550 million)

• Strategic Leadership of HSE Management System - Spearheaded and directed the HSE Management System for major infrastructure, structural steel, earthworks, transmission, commercial, and industrial projects in JIZAN Economic City, totalling SAR 400 million. Fortify the successful implementation of the HSE Management System, overseeing its effective integration into project operations.

• Compliance and Accountability in HSE – Guaranteed compliance with HSE legislation, regulations, rules, standards, and requirements. Implemented an effective system for investigating, reporting, and estimating the cost of injuries, damages, and other incidents.

• Collaboration for Issue Resolution and HSE Standards Collaborated closely with all divisions to detect and address major issues, including concerns raised by clients. Confirmed effective resolution of issues and adherence to HSE standards, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

• Comprehensive HSE Audits and Inspections – Performed comprehensive HSE audits and inspections to assess compliance and categorize areas for improvement. Made sure proper permits were obtained and maintained throughout projects, mitigating risks, and maintaining regulatory compliance.

• Client Communication and Collaboration - Actively communicated and liaised with clients on HSE matters, including pre-qualification requirements, site safety plans, incident investigations, regulatory matters, and closeout meetings.

• Enhancing Hazard and Group Risk Assessments Introduced task-specific tailgate meetings and toolbox meetings to enhance hazard and group risk assessments. Improved inspections and gained operational buy-in for the HSE Management System, fostering a proactive safety culture. Services and Solution Company Pvt Ltd. Head of HSSE, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 2014-2015 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 2014 – 2015

Head of HSSE – Major Infrastructure & Electromechanical Projects

• HSSE Program Leadership - Essayed a key role in delivering an HSSE program, overseeing a team of 16 direct reports, and ensuring the safety of 3000 employees across major commercial and industrial project sites in Saudi Arabia.

• Ownership of HSSE Management System - Streamlined and optimized the HSSE Management System as the direct report to the CEO, resulting in a 30% decrease in safety-related incidents and fostering a safety-first culture across the organization.

• Cross-functional Collaboration and Safety Initiatives - Co-chaired cross-functional operations meetings, spearheading the Road to Zero initiative and chairing safety meetings to proactively address safety strategies.

• Comprehensive Training Programs - Launched comprehensive training programs, Augmenting team competencies, and establishing a solid procedural foundation for safety protocols in line with the 5-star safety management system. PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

Shahzad Group of Companies, Pakistan 2011-2014

Group HSSE Manager

Naval Housing Scheme, Karachi & Islamabad, Pakistan 2004-2011 Career Progression:

Group HSSE Manager 2007-2011

Project HSSE Manager, Navy Heights 2004-2007

Karachi Port Authority 1999-2003

General Manager – Safety, Security & Intelligence

Pakistan Navy 1990-1999

Career Progression:

Project HSSE Manager 1997-1999

Chief Instructor (HSSE) - HR Development Centre, Karachi 1993-1996 Fleet HSSE Officer - HR Development Centre, Karachi 1990-1993 EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

• Bachelor of Science (War Studies), Command & Staff College, Quetta – Pakistan

• Bachelor of Science (Marine & Naval Sciences), University of Karachi – Pakistan

• Executive HR Management – Bahria University Islamabad - Pakistan CERTIFICATIONS

• LEED GA

• ISO 45001-2018

• ISO 14001-2015

• IPGDOSH (Level 6)

• AIOSH

• NEBOSH IGC 1, 2 & 3 UK

• OSHA Train the Trainer – Agile Safety Group (USA))

• First Aid & CPR (Saudi Red Crescent Authority)

• Advanced Fire Fighting & Damage Control (USA)

• Blood-Borne Pathogens in the Workplace

• Safety Officer Tactical Course

• Advanced Instruction Techniques

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP

• SIIRSM - United Kingdom

PROJECT HANDLED

• TCF 1, 2 & 3 - SAR 01 billion ARAMCO Project – HARADH

• SAR 400 million ARAMCO JEC 2000 Home Lot Development

• 132 KVA Saudi Electric Company Grid Station RABWA – Riyadh Saudi Arabia

• 115 KVA Saudi Electric Company Grid Station NADA – AL HASA Saudi Arabia

• 115 KVA Saudi Electric Company Grid Station MUBARAKIA – AL HASA Saudi Arabia

• 200 Villas Naval Housing Scheme - Karachi Pakistan

• 4 High Stories Tower (20 Stories Each) Naval Housing Scheme – Karachi Pakistan

• 273 Bed Hospital Pakistan Navy – Karachi Pakistan

• Revamped Karachi Port Safety & Security Force after 9/11 Attack USA – Karachi Port Authority Core Competence & Technical Skills

Category Skills & Expertise

HSE/HSSE Leadership ARAMCO HSE standards, KSA regulatory compliance, ISO 45001, ISO 14001, OSHA protocols Incident Management Root cause analysis, incident investigation, corrective action planning Audit & Compliance Internal/external audits, contractor compliance, NCR close-out, penalty enforcement Risk & Safety Engineering Hazard identification, risk mitigation strategies, PTW systems, emergency response Project Oversight Safety planning for mega-projects, stakeholder coordination, escalation protocols Documentation Mastery Unsafe act reports, escalation memos, formal correspondence, regulatory referencing Training & Mentorship Team coaching, procedural discipline, ethical communication, designation upgrades Sustainability Integration Environmental impact assessments, waste management, sustainable construction practices Digital Tools MS Office, incident tracking systems, compliance dashboards, audit software Strategic Communication Board-level reporting, motivational leadership, structured escalation



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