Country Manager

Core Laboratories is seeking a Country Manager for Saybolt in Lagos, Nigeria. The role involves leading operations, driving commercial growth, managing a team, and ensuring compliance and quality. Candidates should have over 5 years of management experience in TIC or related industries, strong leadership skills, and a hands-on approach. The position requires financial management, client relationship building, and adherence to safety standards.
Saybolt is looking for a driven Country Manager to lead operations, drive commercial growth and strengthen client relationships in Nigeria. This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for performance, people and profitability.

YOUR MISSION

• Lead daily operations and grow the business

• Manage and motivate the team

• Build strong client partnerships

• Ensure compliance, safety and quality at all times

• Drive commercial strategy and deliver results

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• 5+ years in TIC or related industries at a management level

• Strong leadership and commercial acumen

• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills

• A hands-on, can-do mindset

Why join us?

You’ll play a key role in shaping Saybolt’s success in one of our most dynamic markets, with the autonomy to make real impact, locally and regionally.

Ready to lead the way?

Apply now and be part of a global brand with deep roots in Africa and a clear vision for the future.

SUMMARY

The Country Manager is responsible for leading Saybolt Nigeria’s operations, ensuring profitability, regulatory compliance, and high-quality service delivery. This role oversees all aspects of local performance, including operations, finance, staffing, and commercial activities. The Country Manager acts as the key link between the local team and Area Management, reporting regularly on performance and developments.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
• Operational Oversight: Manage daily inspection, laboratory, and administrative functions.
• Financial Management: Responsible for the local P&L; prepare and submit financial reports; manage budgets and cost control.
• Team Leadership: Supervise, develop, and evaluate staff performance; ensure training and compliance with safety and technical standards.
• Compliance & Quality: Ensure adherence to Saybolt and Core Laboratories policies, local laws, and industry standards; maintain readiness for audits.
• Commercial Activities: Build and maintain client relationships; identify and pursue business development opportunities in coordination with the Area team. Must drive commercial strategy and deliver results.
• Reporting: Provide accurate and timely reports to Area Management on operations, risks, and growth opportunities.
• Safety & Environment: Promote and monitor compliance with HSE standards and sustainability practices.
• Strategic Input: Contribute to local strategy development and implementation in line with regional objectives.
• Representation: Act as Saybolt’s local representative to clients, authorities, and key stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a managerial role within the TIC, oil & gas, or related sector.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally.
• Fluent in English.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of inspection and laboratory workflows.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage business operations independently.
• Commercially driven and results oriented.
• Proficient in budgeting and performance analysis.
• Clear communicator with strong written and verbal skills.
• Highly organized and capable of managing multiple priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and reporting tools (e.g., Power BI).