WorkSafe Victoria chief executive Joe Calafiore resigns after one year in the job

The man who took the helm of one of Geelong’s largest organisations has suddenly stepped down.

Joe Calafiore has resigned as chief executive of WorkSafe Victoria effective immediately. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Daniel Pockett

WorkSafe is on the hunt for its third boss in less than 18 months after chief executive Joe Calafiore resigned on Friday.

Mr Calafiore informed staff via email the reasons behind his decision.

“This job is 100 per cent or nothing, and at this stage I am unable to commit the full focus that the role requires,” he said.

It is understood Mr Calafiore had been on leave for the past few weeks and his resignation is effective immediately.

Ash West will act in the role until a permanent replacement is found.

Mr Calafiore, a former TAC boss, said he felt honoured to serve in the position and looked fondly on his time.

“It has been a privilege to be associated with such a wonderful organisation, to have played a small part in our recovery, and to have been involved in the crafting of the next strategy,” he said.

Joe Calafiore on Moorabool Street in 2018. Picture: Peter Ristevski

“I would like to acknowledge the strong support I have received from ministers, board directors, and the executive leadership team in my time here.

“I sincerely thank all staff, stakeholders and members of the community who share the passion of creating safer workplaces each day.”

WorkSafe chairman Bob Cameron said Mr Calafiore hit the ground running upon his appointment in early 2024 and made major contributions to the lives of Victorian workers.

“He has had an immense impact on the organisation, particularly in guiding the stabilisation of the WorkCover scheme and in driving the development of WorkSafe’s new five year strategy – a body of work of which we are proud,” he said.

“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Joe.”

In October 2023, then WorkSafe chief executive Colin Radford resigned after four years.

Originally published as WorkSafe Victoria chief executive Joe Calafiore resigns after one year in the job