AUD 233,482 - 257,585 per annum, Salary Packaging
The organisation
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is a frontline service delivery agency dedicated to protecting our community and environment. As the world’s largest volunteer firefighting service with over 70,000 members, we are built on a tradition of service, trust, resilience, respect, and teamwork. For over 100 years, RFS has been vital in safeguarding life, property, and the environment from bushfires and other emergencies.
Joining the RFS means being part of a community-focused organization committed to service with heart, humanity, and an enduring promise to serve.
The opportunity
The Director of Area Operations is responsible for leading all NSW Rural Fire Service responsibilities across Areas and Districts, aiming to protect life, property, and the environment from bushfires and emergencies. This role involves developing and delivering a community-centered fire and emergency service that focuses on prevention, mitigation, and suppression of fires.
Reporting to the Deputy Commissioner, Field Operations, and leading a team of six direct reports, the Director will ensure the development of operational capacity and capability for effective bushfire response. The role includes resource management, bushfire mitigation, capability building, and leading the development and implementation of Bush Fire Risk Management Plans, ensuring organizational uptake. Additionally, the role emphasizes community engagement and resilience building to support communities effectively.
The Director will collaborate with the broader Executive team and internal stakeholders, making critical decisions related to operations, strategy, and business management. Flexibility to work across Glendenning and Sydney Olympic Park (HQ) locations is required.
Our ideal candidate
We seek a senior leader with extensive experience in fire and emergency management and multi-agency operational management. The candidate should be able to develop high-performing teams, work collaboratively to enhance staff capability, and engage stakeholders to improve operational efficiency. An understanding and appreciation of a volunteer workforce are highly advantageous.
Minimum requirements include:
* A relevant degree (e.g., Emergency Management, Management).
* Significant senior emergency management leadership experience.
* A proven track record of developing engaged, high-performing teams.
* Willingness to support operational activities during major fire events, consistent with skills and background.
For a confidential discussion, contact Jess Lewy or Simon Wybenga of The Orchard Talent Group via email [email protected], quoting job reference #05.
To apply, submit your current CV and a 1-2 page cover letter via email to [email protected], quoting job reference #05. Applicants must have the legal right to work in Australia.
Application deadline: 11:59pm Wednesday, 11th June 2025.
Please note a concurrent executive search is underway through Orchard Talent Group.
Recruitment Information – NSW Rural Fire Service
* We value diversity and promote employment of women, people with disabilities, Aboriginal people, LGBTIQA+ individuals, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
* The recruitment process may include assessments aligned with the NSW PSC Capability Framework, referee checks, and criminal history checks.
* A talent pool may be created from this recruitment process.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and pay respect to their Elders past, present, and emerging.
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