Shane Fitzsimmons - Commissioner of Resilience NSW

Shane Fitzsimmons was the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service during the unprecedented fire season that engulfed the State in late 2019 and early 2020. In the midst of managing the crisis, Shane received high praise for his leadership qualities – particularly his openness, authenticity and vulnerability – as he demonstrated a deep commitment and care for the country, as well as the people under his command.

So, having the chance to talk to him about his philosophies, experience and approach to leadership, and some of the lessons learned during the crisis, was an incredible privilege.

This conversation is packed with practical ideas from a leader who has delivered in the most demanding conditions. Shane shares what his day looked like at the peak of the fires, how he consistently made decisions involving high complexity and consequence; as well as how to maintain the high levels of motivation that lead to the long hours of dedication needed to conquer a crisis.

I hope you enjoy this phenomenal conversation with the current Commissioner of Resilience NSW, Shane Fitzsimmons. The kind of leader I personally believe we need a lot more of, in this Country.