Director Strategy and Volunteer Engagement

Overview

Closes: 22 September 2025

Classification: Senior Officer Grade B

Salary: $146,705 - $164,506 plus superannuation

Position No: 44656

Directorate: Justice and Community Safety

Advertised (Gazettal date): 08 September 2025

Contact Officer: Steve Forbes on Steve.Forbes@act.gov.au or (02) 6205 5235

Details: Are you ready to lead the future of the ACT State Emergency Service?

The ACT State Emergency Services (ACTSES) is seeking a dynamic and passionate leader to take on the pivotal role of Director, Strategy and Volunteer Engagement for the ACT State Emergency Service (ACTSES). This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact on the growth, capability, and sustainability of one of the ACT's most vital volunteer-based emergency services.

Working directly with the Chief Officer ACTSES, you will lead the development and delivery of strategic initiatives that support and grow the ACTSES volunteer workforce. You will be at the forefront of shaping the future of the service, ensuring our volunteers, who are at the center of everything we do, are empowered, supported, and equipped to serve the community with pride and professionalism.

This is more than a leadership role, it's a chance to be part of something bigger. If you have a background in emergency services, or you're a dedicated volunteer with a deep understanding of the sector, this role offers the platform to turn your passion into purpose.

What You Will Do

• Lead ACTSES volunteer membership and training teams
• Drive strategic planning, business development, and risk management—including oversight of the SES Strategic Risk Register.
• Champion volunteer recruitment, onboarding, and continuous development aligned with ACTSES legislative responsibilities.
• Support community engagement initiatives to build resilience against storm and flood events.
• Represent ACTSES in local and national forums, committees, and working groups.
• Prepare high-quality strategic advice, reports, and correspondence for ESA Executive.
• Supervise staff and contribute to incident response leadership.
• Work flexibly, including occasional after-hours and weekend support for volunteers.
• Oversee and maintain the SES Strategic Risk Register to support informed decision-making and operational readiness.
• Lead ACTSES community engagement initiatives to enhance public preparedness and resilience against storm and flood events.
• Provide direct supervision to staff and contribute to volunteer support outside standard business hours, including weekends.

What We're Looking For

• Proven strategic leadership and business planning experience.
• Strong understanding of emergency services and volunteer-based models.
• Experience in project management, training, and volunteer engagement.
• Knowledge of ACT legislation and the Australian VET sector is highly desirable.
• A current 'C class' driver's licence and ability to obtain required background checks.

Why This Role?

Because you care. Because you've seen the power of volunteer emergency services. Because you want to lead from the front and help shape the future of the ACTSES.

Eligibility/Other Requirements

• Experience in business strategy, complex project management and financial literacy is highly desirable.
• Experience in an Emergency Services organisation is highly desirable
• Previous experience in training and education, volunteer attraction and retention strategies is desirable.
• A demonstrated understanding of the Australian VET sector and its education framework is highly desirable.
• Background/security clearance checks may be conducted.
• Prior to commencing this role, a current registration issued under the Working with Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Act 2011 is required. For further information on Working with Vulnerable People registration refer to - Apply for or renew a WWVP registration - Access Canberra
• In addition to the above, successful applicants will be required to obtain a National Police Records Check. Applicants may refuse to undertake the checks however an offer of employment will not be made.
• This position does not require a pre-employment medical.
• A minimum of a 'C class' drivers' licence.

Notes

A Merit Pool will be established from this selection process and will be used to fill vacancies over the next 12 months. Selection may be based on application and referee reports only.

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where people with diverse thoughts, lived experience, and perspectives can thrive and contribute their unique talents to the ACTPS and ACT community. We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, veterans, younger and older workers, and people with diverse genders, sexes and sexualities to apply.

How to Apply

Submit a two-page pitch addressing the Professional/Technical Skills and Knowledge and the Behavioural Capabilities outlined in the Position Description, along with your current curriculum vitae and two referees.

Applications should be submitted via the Apply Now Button below.

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