Work Type: Fixed-term - Full-time
Salary: Salary not specified
Grade: Grade in advertisement
Occupation: Leadership and management
Location: Melbourne - Eastern suburbs
Reference: VG/1914514
Country Fire Authority (CFA)
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) is one of the largest volunteer-based fire and emergency services organisations in the world. Operating state-wide across 1,208 brigades our more than 51,000 volunteers and over 1000 full-time equivalent staff support CFA's vision to work together with communities to keep Victorians safe from fire and other emergencies. Our mission is to protect lives and property.
About the Role
Representing the Chief Officer, the position of Deputy Chief Officer (DCO) Operational Performance & Capability is a critical role responsible for continuous improvement, operational reporting and evaluation of service delivery across the state. Leading a team of 34 FTE (with 4 direct reports) you will strengthen the capability and capacity of regions to support response to emergencies and prevention programs and provide assurance to the Chief Officer that community needs are being met.
As a member of the leadership team, the DCO will actively participate in the strategic development of the organisation, foster collaboration across all Directorates, Regions, Districts, Groups and Brigades, participate in the State Control Centre roster, and attend to critical matters as required, acting with the utmost professionalism, integrity and trust as guided by CFA values.
About You
You will bring significant senior-level experience in operational emergency management — sufficient in depth and breadth to perform credibly as State Agency Commander within the Victorian Emergency Management Arrangements. A background in a cognate agency is the minimum threshold; fire experience is highly desirable.
You will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the cultural dynamics within a volunteer-based organisation and be capable of inspiring confidence from brigade leadership through to state-level volunteer networks.
You will bring highly developed acumen in strategic analysis of operational capability and planning frameworks that are benchmarked against domestic and international sources to identify contemporary improvement opportunities. Translating data and evidence into actionable programs you'll apply strategic insight to enhance volunteer attraction, retention, brigade sustainability, doctrine and systems working in close partnership with other divisions with shared accountabilities.
Critically, you will be an accomplished matrix leader — able to set strategic direction, build alignment and hold accountability as you influence teams and functions that sit outside your direct remit. Strong stakeholder management and political acumen are essential, including the ability to operate in high-scrutiny environments and produce work of exceptional quality under pressure.
How To Apply
Candidates are strongly encouraged to review the ‘Candidate Briefing Pack' prior to enquires or lodging an application. Documents are available for download via https://peterwilliampartners.com/cfa-dco-operational-performance-capability
Application Instructions
To apply, please submit the following documents:
For Confidential Enquiries
Please contact Dean Unkles, Managing Director, Peter William Partners
via email [email protected]
Queries close: 5:00pm AEST Wednesday 8th April 2026
Applications close: 5:00pm AEST Friday 10thth April 2026
We encourage candidates to submit applications in advance of the close date. Applicants must be either an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid working visa. Incomplete applications will NOT be acknowledged.
The location of this role is subject to Chief Officer needs and requirements. Additionally, the successful candidate will be required to complete a National Police Records Check, Working with Children Check, and may be subject to pre-employment security check.
Peter William Partners have been exclusively retained by CFA to deliver this executive search. Any unsolicited applications will be redirected to Peter William Partners and managed via the campaign. If you experience any difficulty in lodging your application online, please contact [email protected]