Richard Joseph Sawere
Dar es Salaam
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented Energy Sector Executive with over 15 years of progressive leadership experience across LPG operations, terminal management, and downstream energy business in East and Central Africa. Highly skilled in leading organizational transformation, driving profitability, ensuring safety and compliance, and cultivating productive government and stakeholder partnerships. Recognized for building efficient teams, driving strategic expansion, and executing growth initiatives with measurable impact. A visionary leader committed to sustainable business development and operational excellence.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Innovation & Business Development Manager
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
04.2025 - 07.2025
- Lead the innovation and business transformation agenda to position Oryx Gas as a market leader in LPG technology and customer-centric solutions. E.g. 3 new business directions, from hospitality to industries, reticulations system for buildings and Markets, incinerations,
- Drive commercialization of new LPG applications including power generation, industrial burners, and agricultural solutions.
- Oversee project execution and cross-functional alignment to improve operational efficiency and energy transition outcomes.
- Strengthen business intelligence frameworks to improve market responsiveness and customer satisfaction.
- Build external partnerships for innovation, ensuring alignment with sustainability and growth objectives.
- Developed customized solutions for clients based on a deep understanding of their unique pain points, delivering exceptional value and driving repeat business.
- Mentored junior team members in effective sales techniques, fostering a high-performance culture within the organization.
- Conducted comprehensive market research and analysis to identify emerging trends and potential areas of expansion.
- Spearheaded development of new product line, leading to significant expansion of market footprint.
Head of LPG Bulk Consumer
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
01.2023 - 03.2025
- Directed nationwide bulk LPG operations and sales, ensuring regulatory compliance, HSE performance, and financial success.
- Developed national distribution strategies, increasing volume growth and market share while maintaining strong profit margins. Managed over 250 client portfolio with increased sale of up to 17% on yearly budget.
- Led strategic negotiations with regulators (EWURA, TBS, Ministry of Energy) to streamline compliance and licensing processes.
- Implemented performance metrics to monitor and improve team productivity and project outcomes.
- Fostered relationships with key stakeholders to align organizational goals with market trends.
- Oversaw CAPEX and OPEX budgets, optimizing resource allocation and strengthening profitability.
- Led cross-functional teams in developing innovative solutions for complex business challenges.
- Enhanced organizational performance through mentorship, succession planning, and performance-driven leadership.
- Spearheaded change management processes, facilitating smooth transitions during organizational restructuring efforts.
- Strengthened client relationships with regular communication, timely project delivery, and high-quality services.
- Launched innovative products/services that captured new market share while maintaining competitive pricing structures.
Zanzibar Sales Engineer
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
02.2019 - 01.2023
- Expanded LPG market presence in Unguja and Pemba, increasing total volume by over 500% through strategic partnerships within 4 years.
- Designed and implemented a dealer area of demarcation framework improving efficiency, accountability, and revenue growth.
- Strengthened HSSEQ compliance and operational safety, resulting in zero safety incidents for four consecutive years.
- Analyzed market trends and competitor offerings to refine sales strategies and product positioning.
- Developed detailed technical proposals addressing client requirements and industry standards.
- Established long-term relationships with key clients for repeat business and referrals, cultivating a strong network within the industry.
- Built strong relationships with distributors, government agencies, and local authorities ensuring market stability and business continuity.
- Increased sales revenue by consistently meeting and exceeding sales targets through effective client presentations and product demonstrations.
- Streamlined communication between sales and technical departments, ensuring cohesive understanding of client objectives.
Asset Verification Manager
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
08.2017 - 02.2019
- Oversaw national asset verification and control systems ensuring regulatory and audit compliance.
- Led verification processes to ensure compliance with industry regulations and safety standards.
- Partnered with finance and supply chain to establish efficient inventory and asset management policies.
- Delivered cost-saving initiatives by improving accuracy in fixed asset reporting and lifecycle management.
- Improved verification processes by implementing new strategies and techniques for increased efficiency.
- Developed and maintained a comprehensive verification plan, resulting in streamlined operations.
LPG Plant Manager, Kigamboni & Kurasini
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
03.2015 - 07.2017
- Led end-to-end operations for LPG production and storage facilities, ensuring adherence to international safety standards.
- Successfully managed the seamless transition of LPG operations from the Kurasini Plant (1,200 MT storage) to the newly constructed Kigamboni Plant (3,200 MT), ensuring zero disruption to supply, enhanced safety standards, and increased operational capacity.
- Developed and executed training programs for staff on safety protocols and equipment operation.
- Managed offshore unloading of LPG from vessels to onshore storage facilities (spheres and bullet tanks).
- Managed logistics to supply 7 upcountry depot ( Mwanza, Moshi, Iringa, Mbeya, Zanzibar, Dodoma and Isaka depot).
- Improved plant efficiency by 15% through preventive maintenance programs and lean operation methods.
- Strengthened quality assurance and environmental protection measures in compliance with industry standards.
- Boosted employee morale and productivity through effective leadership and motivational techniques.
- Led, trained and coached plant staff to facilitate high levels of productivity and quality on the new facility-Kigamboni Plant
- Coordinated plant expansions and upgrades to accommodate increased demand while minimizing disruption to ongoing operations.
Depot/Operations Manager
Oryx Oil Company Limited /United Petrol SRL
02.2013 - 02.2015
- Managed depot operations across regional markets with full accountability for Operations, logistics, and supply reliability.
- Streamlined operations by implementing efficient workflows to enhance productivity across multiple teams.
- Achieved monthly sales of 200,000L lubricants by developing key partnerships with mining and industrial clients.
- Led cross-functional teams in executing strategic initiatives, improving operational effectiveness and performance metrics.
- Established operational controls and safety policies ensuring smooth cross-border product flow.
- Enhanced customer trust through service excellence and operational reliability.
- Managed inventory and supply chain operations to achieve timely and accurate delivery of goods and services for both Oil and Lubricants.
- Analyzed and reported on key performance metrics to senior management.
- Handled staff training initiatives aimed at upskilling the workforce to meet dynamic industry demands.
- Increased profit by streamlining operations.
- Championed safety protocols to maintain a secure working environment, reducing workplace accidents significantly.
- Reported issues to higher management with great detail.
Depot Manager
Oryx Oil Company Limited – North Mara Gold Mine
05.2011 - 01.2013
- Oversee depot operations supporting fuel supply chain for large-scale mining operations. Offloading more that 100 trucks monthly.
- Managed inventory levels, optimizing stock management of over 3 million liters per monthly, and minimizing stock out through effective forecasting.
- Oversaw depot operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational standards.
- Strengthened safety culture through rigorous compliance with HSE standards.
- Led a team of depot staff, providing training and mentorship to foster professional development and skill enhancement.
- Developed strategic plans for depot logistics, aligning resources with production demands at North Mara Gold Mine.
- Conducted regular audits of depot processes, identifying areas for enhancement and implementing corrective actions as necessary.
- Reduced operational costs through strategic resource allocation and budget control measures.
- Implemented quality control measures to maintain high standards for product handling and storage conditions within the depot.
- Conducted regular staff meetings to provide updates, share information, gather feedback, and promote effective communication among team members.
- Maintained accurate records of inventory levels, shipments, deliveries, and other essential documentation for the depot's operation.
- Trained personnel in equipment maintenance and enforced participation in exercises focused on developing key skills.
Depot Supervisor
Oryx Oil Company Limited – Kurasini Fuel Terminal
08.2010 - 05.2011
- Supported terminal management through coordination of loading, dispatch, and stock control processes.
- Ensured product quality assurance and adherence to safety standards during terminal operations.
- Managed fuel inventory, optimizing stock levels and vessel unloading
- Collaborated with other leaders and executives to direct workflow and support operations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
University of Dar Es Salaam
Dar es Salaam01.2010
Skills
- Strategic Leadership
- LPG Operations Management
- Terminal & Depot Oversight
- Regulatory & Government Liaison
- Business Development
- Risk Management
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Innovation & Change Management
- Business development and planning
- Customer service
- Sales and marketing
- Mentoring and coaching
- Staff management
- Budget management
- Revenue growth
- Team leadership
- Negotiations
Accomplishments
- Pioneered regional LPG market expansion initiatives across Tanzania and Zanzibar, achieving over 300% growth in sales volume and client acquisition through innovative distribution strategies and customer acquisition programs.
- Successfully designed and implemented a super-dealer area of demarcation framework for cylinder sales in Zanzibar resulting to improving efficiency, accountability, and revenue growth.
- Successfully managed the seamless transition of LPG operations from the Kurasini Plant (1,200 MT) to the newly constructed Kigamboni Plant (3,200 MT), ensuring zero supply disruption and enhanced safety.
- Successfully led multiple LPG market expansion programs, driving consistent double-digit growth in revenue and market share.
- Enhanced profitability through disciplined financial management, optimizing CAPEX/OPEX utilization and improving P&L performance.
- Maintained a flawless safety record across all operations under leadership, earning recognition for compliance excellence.
- Streamlined customer engagement and reporting systems, significantly improving customer satisfaction and retention.
- Strengthened institutional relations with regulators and government bodies, ensuring license renewals and business continuity.
- Built and mentored high-performing teams fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and operational excellence.
Timeline
Innovation & Business Development Manager
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
04.2025 - 07.2025
Head of LPG Bulk Consumer
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
01.2023 - 03.2025
Zanzibar Sales Engineer
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
02.2019 - 01.2023
Asset Verification Manager
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
08.2017 - 02.2019
LPG Plant Manager, Kigamboni & Kurasini
Oryx Gas Tanzania Limited
03.2015 - 07.2017
Depot/Operations Manager
Oryx Oil Company Limited /United Petrol SRL
02.2013 - 02.2015
Depot Manager
Oryx Oil Company Limited – North Mara Gold Mine
05.2011 - 01.2013
Depot Supervisor
Oryx Oil Company Limited – Kurasini Fuel Terminal
08.2010 - 05.2011
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
University of Dar Es Salaam
Professional Development
- Leadership Management ( Empower,2024)
- Managing Poor Performance (ATE, 2024)
- International Health & Safety Passport (ECITB, 2022)
- Integrated Management Systems (IMS) Internal Auditor ( SGS-2022)
- Defensive Driving & 4WD (NIT, 2022)
- Sales Development Program (Empower, 2020)
- Advanced Microsoft Excel (2022)