The organisation
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is a frontline service delivery agency of significant standing, our focus is on the protection of our community and environment. We are the world’s largest volunteer firefighting service, with over 70,000 members, proudly built on a strong tradition of service, trust, resilience, respect, and teamwork. For over 100 years RFS have been a vital part of the community, working hard to protect life, property and the environment from bush fires and other emergencies.

When you join the RFS you know you are part of something special, where they are here for the community – with heart, humanity, and an enduring promise to serve.

The opportunity
The Director Operational Logistics is responsible for leading the strategic planning and delivery of logistics, facilities and operational support programs which underpin RFS capability and their readiness, alongside the State Logistics Warehouse. Within this opportunity, the Director will have oversight of supply chains and equipment which support both day-to-day operations and major incident responses across NSW.

Reporting to the Deputy Commissioner, Operational Coordination and leading a team of four direct reports, the Director Operational Logistics will lead the development and implementation of a contemporary logistics program. This role will provide subject matter expertise relating to supplier performance and managing business relationships whilst leading the research, development and procurement of uniforms and Personal Protective Equipment / Clothing. In addition, this role will oversee the mobilisation and establishment of base camps and logistical hubs to enable a rapid deployment of facilities and equipment when necessary.

The Director Operational Logistics will work collaboratively with the broader Executive team and internal stakeholders to develop and maintain the Asset Management Framework and System for RFS.

Our ideal candidate
For this role we are seeking a proven senior leader with experience in managing high performing teams, ideally within firefighting or a related emergency services discipline.

You will need to be able to critically analyse the current state of play and look to strategically plan and improve efficiencies across the operational logistics. Extensive experience in logistic and supply chain management is required as is supplier marketplace management and contract negotiation. Additionally, a genuine appreciation and understanding of a volunteer workforce is beneficial.

To be eligible for consideration for this role you must have:

• A Degree in Logistics, Business Management or a related field.
• Professional certification in project management or supply chain management is advantageous.
• Demonstrated understanding of fire and emergency management structure and practices.
• During periods of major fire activity, the incumbent may be required to support operational management activities consistent with their skills and background.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Jess Lewy or Simon Wybenga of The Orchard Talent Group via email [email protected] quoting job reference #04

To apply, please submit your current CV and a 1-2 page cover letter via email to [email protected] quoting job reference #04. Please note applicants must have a legal right to work in Australia.

Please submit your application no later than 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 a diverse and inclusive workplace and actively promote the employment of women, people with a disability, Aboriginal people, LGBTIQA+ and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
• The recruitment process may involve a range of assessment activities to determine your capabilities for the role (aligning to the NSW PSC Capability Framework). The Capability application tool is designed to help job applicants understand and use the NSW Public Sector Capability Framework when applying for jobs with the NSW government. Additional checks for successful applicants will include referee checks and criminal history checks.
• A recruitment (talent) pool may be created through this recruitment process.

The Orchard Talent Group acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging, for they hold the memories, traditions, culture and hopes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.