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SES Interview Coaching

Master the Transition to the Senior Executive Service

Stop Answering Like an EL2. Start Leading Like an SES.

The leap to the Senior Executive Service (SES) requires a fundamental shift in how you articulate your value. You are no longer just a subject matter expert; you must prove you can operate at the enterprise level.

Panels now assess your behaviours (50%) as rigorously as your outcomes (50%). Our premier coaching package bridges the gap between your operational track record and the strict requirements of the Secretaries' Charter of Leadership Behaviours (DRIVE).

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100% Confidential. Coached by Former SES Hiring Managers.

The Executive Capability Chasm

You are a successful leader. You've delivered results as an EL2. But the step up to the Senior Executive Service is more than a promotion—it's a fundamental shift in mindset, influence, and strategic scope.

Why Candidates Fail

Many high-calibre candidates falter because they fail to demonstrate the transition from operational management to enterprise-level leadership. They focus entirely on the complexity of the work they delivered (the "what") and fail to speak the language of stewardship, systemic risk, and whole-of-government impact.

What Panels Demand

Panels are scrutinising your executive presence. They are looking for the Advanced STAR narrative: the ability to articulate complex stakeholder negotiation, navigate sensitive political realities, and directly align past achievements with the strict psychological safety and ethical expectations of the APS values.

The DRIVE Framework

D

Dynamic

Have an inquiring mind, innovate, understand systemic impact, and embrace/manage risk.

R

Respectful

Embrace diversity, seek challenging perspectives, and build an inclusive, safe culture.

I

Integrity

Be open, honest, accountable. Have the courage to call out unacceptable behaviour.

V

Value Others

Collaborate not compete. Understand people's motivations to lead and influence effectively.

E

Empower People

Trust and grow others. Provide context (don't do their jobs). Support people to bounce back.

Mastering the New 50/50 Split

Under the latest APSC guidelines, how you deliver is weighted equally with what you deliver. Your pitch and interview examples must explicitly demonstrate:

  • Secretaries' Charter Alignment: Directly linking your achievements to the DRIVE behaviours.
  • Enterprise-Level Accountability: Addressing the SES Work Level Standards (WLS) by showing scale and how you shape long-term organisational strategy.
  • Advanced STAR-L Methodologyâ„¢: Moving beyond standard STAR responses to articulate the Legacy and Leadership impact that sets SES candidates apart.
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SES Investment Options

Choose the level of executive support required to secure your transition into the Senior Executive Service. Flexible payment options available.

SES Ascent Program

The core 3-session intensive coaching program for EL2 and acting SES professionals.

Limited Offer Ends 30 June

Total Investment

$2,200
$1,997

Or flexible payment plan: 2x $998.50

  • 3x 60min Sessions (3 hours total) with ex-hiring managers.
  • The "De-EL2-ing" Dialogue: Audit your experience against SES ILS.
  • High-Fidelity Mock Panel: Live-fire simulation with video debrief.
  • "Murder Board" Refinement: Rapid-fire practice on weaknesses.
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Highest Win Rate

The Complete Success

The ultimate end-to-end SES application and interview solution.

Total Investment

$2,698

Or flexible payment plan: 2x $1,349

Includes the full Ascent Program, PLUS:

  • SES Resume Overhaul: Complete professional rewrite mapping your history directly to SES Work Level Standards.
  • Executive Pitch Development: Strategic, bespoke ghostwriting for the critical one-to-two page SES executive pitch.
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SES Executive FAQs

Why do high-performing EL2s fail at the SES interview?

Many exceptional EL2s fail because they focus entirely on the complexity of the *work* they delivered (the "what"). At the SES level, the panel is equally, if not more, concerned with *how* you delivered it. The new SES Performance Leadership Framework mandates a 50/50 split between operational outcomes and your demonstration of the DRIVE leadership behaviours.

I have been acting in an SES Band 1 role. Do I still need coaching?

Yes. The "acting trap" is incredibly common. Candidates assume the panel (often containing their current managers) already knows their worth, leading to under-prepared, informal interview responses. We coach you to systematically prove your strategic value, demonstrate continuous improvement, and articulate your enterprise-wide impact without sounding complacent.

How do the payment plans work?

We understand that executive coaching is an investment. We offer a simple, interest-free split payment option. You pay 50% upfront to secure your coaching schedule, and the remaining 50% is billed automatically 7 days later. There are no hidden fees or credit checks.

Ready for the
Executive Band?

Don't risk your transition on generic advice. Work with former hiring managers who understand the exact mechanics of SES selection and the new Performance Leadership Framework.

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Not sure which option is right for you? Contact us for a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your specific needs and target role.