Jones named as CFS chief

Mark Jones, who previously worked in the United Kingdom as chief fire officer for the Buckingham Fire and Rescue Service and as Deputy Chief Executive of the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, was named this week.

He has also worked as an executive with the ACT Emergency Services Agency.

Emergency Services Minister Corey Wingard said Mr Jones had been recommended because of his extensive experience with volunteers and knowledge of the emergency services sector, which includes time with the International Firefighters Association - a largely volunteer organisation.

"Mr Jones is about as highly-credentialled of an applicant we could have hoped for and will be an asset to the CFS and the Emergency Services sector as a whole," he said.

"His achievements in helping deliver a volunteer-centric culture between firefighters was also noted by the selection panel."

"I look forward to working with Mr Jones in ensuring the CFS can continue the excellent work it does for all South Australians."

Mr Jones said the combination of working with such highly-valued volunteers, and the South Australian lifestyle, was what attracted him to the role.

"The South Australian CFS consists of a dedicated and valued group of people and I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with such a respected organisation," he said.

"I am keen to get on the road and meet the volunteers we depend upon."

He is expected to begin the role next month.

The CFS Volunteer Association questioned the appointment earlier this week, saying a key selection criteria had included the need for "extensive knowledge" of Australia's topography and its impact on fire behaviour.

Greens MLC Tammy Franks also responded to the announcement, with a tweet likening it to an April Fool's joke, for the CFS chief to not "actually have any bushfire experience".