Head of Legal – Downstream Operations

Head of Legal – Downstream Operations at PKN Orlen

PKN Orlen, Poland's largest company by revenue and a Central European energy champion headquartered in Płock (with a significant Warsaw presence), is seeking a Head of Legal for Downstream Operations. Following the merger with Grupa Lotos and PGNiG, PKN Orlen is now a multi-energy conglomerate and one of Europe's most significant energy companies.

About the Role

Based at the Płock refinery complex — one of the largest in Central Europe — you will lead the legal team supporting downstream operations including refining, petrochemicals, and fuel distribution. The role requires deep knowledge of Prawo energetyczne (Energy Law), Ustawa o zapasach ropy naftowej (Oil Reserves Act), and environmental regulations under the Prawo ochrony środowiska (Environmental Protection Law).

You will oversee legal risk management for the downstream segment, manage complex commercial contracts, handle regulatory matters before the Urząd Regulacji Energetyki (URE), and coordinate with the Agencja Rezerw Strategicznych on mandatory fuel reserves. The role reports directly to the General Counsel and sits on the downstream leadership team.

• Lead and manage the downstream legal team across refining, petrochemicals, and distribution
• Oversee legal risk management and compliance for downstream operations
• Manage complex commercial contracts including feedstock supply, off-take, and tolling agreements
• Handle regulatory matters before URE and coordinate with Agencja Rezerw Strategicznych
• Advise on environmental compliance including emissions trading (EU ETS) and environmental permits
• Support M&A and joint venture transactions in the downstream segment
• Report to General Counsel and contribute to corporate legal strategy

• Qualified radca prawny or adwokat with 10+ years of legal experience, including significant energy sector exposure
• Expert knowledge of Prawo energetyczne, Prawo ochrony środowiska, and oil & gas regulatory framework
• Experience managing legal teams (5+ lawyers) in a corporate environment
• Track record of handling complex commercial and regulatory matters in the energy sector
• Familiarity with URE regulatory proceedings and EU energy market regulations
• Fluent Polish and English; experience in multi-jurisdictional legal coordination
• MBA or post-graduate energy law qualification is an advantage