Brett Loughlin appointed as SA’s new CFS chief officer

SA’s Country Fire Service has a new boss, after the former chief executive quit just three years into the role.

Respected firefighter Brett Loughlin has been appointed the new chief officer of the SA’s Country Fire Service.

Mr Loughlin, 38 – who takes over from chief officer Mark Jones, who has resigned to return to the United Kingdom – is currently executive director of operations.

CFS Chief Officer Mark Jones has resigned. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

He joined the CFS in 2015 and has held positions including as a regional commander, director of preparedness operations and director of regional operations. Prior to joining the CFS he held several senior positions in the Rural Fire Service in NSW.

In 2020 Mr Loughlin worked as lead analyst with former federal police commissioner Mick Keelty on a comprehensive review of the CFS response to the 2019/20 fires that ravaged the state.

He led a team of six during the review, which involved examining more than 500 submissions and produced a report with 15 recommendations all accepted by the state government.

Mr Loughlin said his appointment was “incredibly humbling’’ and he was looking forward to leading the organisation into the future.

“I am incredibly honoured to have been chosen to lead a team of dedicated professionals and volunteers into summer and the future,’’ he said.

“I’m excited to start working with government and across the emergency services sector to deliver results for all the CFS’ hardworking staff and volunteers.’’

CFS State Duty Commander Brett Loughlin, who has been appointed new chief officer. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

CFS firefighters at work on Thursday morning, extinguishing a truck fire at the tunnels on the South-Eastern Freeway. Picture: CFS

Emergency Services Minister Joe Szakacs said he was delighted with Mr Loughlin’s appointment.

“I am looking forward to continuing to build an already positive relationship with Mr Loughlin and can’t wait for him to begin his new role to steer the CFS into what will be a busy summer,’’ he said.

“Mr Loughlin is an astute professional and born leader with years of experience.

“He will be essential to driving the CFS forward and working with an incredible team to deliver positive results for our state.’’