- Help lead a trusted, state-wide organisation
- Create safer communities
- Deliver world-class emergency management
About the organisation
Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is a volunteer-based emergency service that is the control agency for flood, storm, tsunami, earthquake and landslide emergencies. The organisation leads the preparation and response for those hazards and plays a key role within Victoria’s emergency management sector. With multiple specialised services, including teams that provide 24/7 responses, VICSES provides significant contributions and expertise to national and state governing bodies to ensure the safety of all Victorians.
About the role
The Chief Officer Operations (COO) leads operational service delivery across Victoria, focusing on strategic planning and readiness to strengthen community and organisational resilience. The role oversees volunteer units and regional staff, driving collaboration with other agencies to ensure communities are well-prepared and effectively resourced. The COO holds legislative authority for directing emergency responses, training, and preparedness, and when appointed by the Emergency Management Commissioner, also serves as State Response Controller, leading statewide responses and advising on emerging risks.
About you
You are a highly credible executive leader with a background in the public sector. With proven experience operating within state command-and-control structures, ideally in operational emergency services or an adjacent sector, you bring both strategic insight and innovative thinking to complex challenges. You are skilled at building trusted relationships with stakeholders across state and national levels and have a strong track record in coordinating multi-agency responses. Thriving in dynamic settings and excelling at capability building, you are a collaborative leader and an effective communicator. You demonstrate a deep commitment to safety, inclusion, and community resilience and are motivated by the opportunity to deliver effective, forward-thinking emergency services to make a lasting impact.
For more information or to apply, please review the Position Description , then click ‘apply now’. Please submit your resume (CV) and a concise cover letter. Direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to SHK. Closes 21 July.
