Job Purpose:

The Community Relations Officer (CRO) is responsible for fostering positive relations between Dorman Long Engineering (DLE) and the communities affected by its operations. This role is essential in building trust, addressing community concerns, and ensuring smooth project execution. The CRO will focus on facilitating open communication, conflict resolution, and partnership development to improve DLE’s standing in the community.

 Corporate Location: Port Harcourt

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the primary liaison between DLE and community leaders, ensuring transparent communication on issues impacting the communities.
• Organize regular meetings with community representatives to discuss projects and address any concerns.
• Clearly communicate DLE’s policies, community development plans, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.
• Mediate disputes between DLE and the community, working toward mutually agreeable solutions.
• Proactively identify potential community issues and address them before they escalate.
• Set up systems for tracking and managing complaints or concerns from the community.
• Help plan and manage CSR projects that meet both DLE’s goals and community needs.
• Monitor the impact of these projects to ensure they effectively support community development.

Regulatory & Legal Compliance

• Ensure adherence to community engagement regulations.
• Keep management informed of legal requirements and ensure compliance with standards.

Job Specifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Public Relations, Community Development, or a related field.
• Certification in Public Relations or Community Relations preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years in community relations or similar roles, ideally within the oil & gas, engineering, or construction sectors.
• Experience in high-conflict environments like the Niger Delta is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in local languages is an advantage.

Key Competencies 

• Cultural Awareness & Sensitivity: Knowledge of local culture and the ability to engage respectfully with communities.
• Conflict Resolution: Strong skills in mediating disputes and de-escalating tensions.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written skills to effectively engage diverse audiences.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Strong teamwork skills to work with internal teams, local leaders, and NGOs.
• Problem Solving & Decision Making: Ability to proactively address issues balancing DLE’s objectives with community needs.

1. Self-starter: Focused on delivering quality results on time and within budget.
2. Resilient: Able to present a balanced view and remain composed under pressure.