Sunday , March 8 2026

PSO seeks new CEO as energy giant opens global search

Aftab Maken

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan State Oil Company Limited (PSO), the country’s largest fuel marketing and energy distribution company, has launched a search for a new Chief Executive Officer, signaling a major leadership transition at a time when the energy sector faces mounting financial, regulatory, and sustainability challenges.

In a public advertisement, PSO announced it is looking for a dynamic and visionary leader to steer the state-run enterprise into its next phase of growth. The incoming CEO will be responsible for overall corporate leadership, operational efficiency, financial stewardship, and long-term strategic direction. The role also emphasizes strengthening PSO’s market position while advancing the company’s transition toward sustainable and future-ready energy solutions.

Focus on Transformation and Governance

According to the job notice, the new chief executive will be tasked with executing PSO’s corporate strategy, overseeing strategic investments, and ensuring business continuity and growth. The role also includes driving operational excellence, maintaining strong stakeholder relationships, and promoting leadership development within the organization.

Corporate governance appears central to the mandate. The CEO will report to the Board of Management and will be responsible for implementing board directives, ensuring transparency, and maintaining compliance with regulatory frameworks.

Extensive Experience Required

PSO has set a high eligibility bar for candidates. Applicants must hold at least a graduate degree from a recognized local or international institution, with preference given to those holding advanced degrees in business administration, finance, engineering, or related fields. Professional certifications such as those in accounting or energy sector management will be considered an advantage.

The company requires a minimum of 20 years of post-qualification experience, including at least 10 years in senior leadership roles. Candidates must demonstrate a proven track record in large organizations, with experience in regulated environments and complex commercial operations considered essential. Exposure to the oil and gas sector, energy markets, or other large-scale infrastructure industries will be a significant plus.

Age and Contract Terms

The position is open to Pakistani nationals only, with an upper age limit of 62 years at the time of appointment. The selected candidate will be offered a performance-based contract for three years, extendable subject to board approval and government policy.

The recruitment process is being managed under the State-Owned Enterprises (Governance and Operations) Act, 2023, along with relevant public sector corporate governance guidelines. The appointment will be made on merit following a transparent selection process.

Strategic Timing

The leadership search comes at a crucial time for PSO and Pakistan’s broader energy landscape. The company has been navigating circular debt pressures, currency volatility, and shifting global energy dynamics, while also facing the need to diversify into cleaner and more sustainable energy segments.

Industry analysts say the next CEO will play a pivotal role in modernizing PSO’s operations, improving financial resilience, and positioning the company to compete in an evolving regional energy market.

Applications for the position are to be submitted online through the designated recruitment portal, with the deadline set for early February 2026.

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