Lead Queensland's response to disasters and emergencies and make a lasting impact on communities across the state.

As Chief Officer, you will lead the State Emergency Service, providing strategic direction, operational leadership and governance to ensure Queensland communities are prepared for, respond to, and recover from disasters and emergencies.

Job details

This is a unique executive leadership opportunity to lead one of Queensland's largest volunteer emergency service organisations and contribute to the safety and resilience of communities across the state. As Chief Officer, you will set the strategic direction for the SES, ensuring the organisation remains capable, agile and ready to respond to increasingly complex disaster and emergency events.

Reporting to the Deputy Commissioner, Disaster and Emergency Management, you will be a key member of the senior leadership team, working collaboratively across government, emergency services, local government, industry and community partners to strengthen disaster preparedness, response and recovery outcomes for Queenslanders.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the SES and its volunteer workforce.
• Lead capability development, organisational performance and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Drive preparedness and operational readiness for disasters and emergency events across Queensland.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, emergency service organisations, community stakeholders and volunteers.
• Foster a culture of accountability, inclusion, safety and service excellence. 

We're looking for an accomplished and values-driven leader who can inspire people, build trusted relationships and lead through complexity.

You will bring:

• Demonstrated executive leadership experience in a complex operational, emergency management, public sector, defence, community services, infrastructure or similarly large-scale environment.
• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to translate vision into practical outcomes.
• Experience leading organisational change, workforce capability uplift and service improvement.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to influence across a diverse range of partners.
• A collaborative leadership style and a genuine commitment to supporting and empowering volunteers and employees.

Experience in emergency management or disaster response will be highly regarded; however, we welcome applications from leaders who have developed transferable skills and capabilities in other sectors.

We are committed to building a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, genders and experiences, including Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

We are committed to creating a culturally safe, respectful and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported to contribute their best.

This is an opportunity to lead a highly respected organisation with a proud history of service to Queensland communities. You will play a critical role in shaping the future of disaster and emergency management while leading a dedicated workforce and volunteer network that makes a real difference when it matters most.

Lead with purpose. Create lasting impact. Help keep Queensland communities safe.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 707020-26-Role Description (Word, 3.69MB)