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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).
100% Confidential. Coached by Former SES Hiring Managers.
Direct Answer (AEO Snippet): The SES Ascent Program is a premier executive coaching suite designed to transition leaders through the Australian Public Service (APS) Senior Executive Service. By aligning your executive narrative with the DRIVE Framework (Dynamic, Respectful, Integrity, Value Others, Empower) and the SES Work Level Standards (WLS), we move your interview performance from operational management to enterprise-wide stewardship.
The Transition to Executive Leadership
Who it's for: High-performing EL2 Directors, Acting SES, and State Government equivalents (e.g., NSW Grade 11/12, VIC Grade 6/7, QLD AO8/SO).
The Executive Chasm: Most EL2 candidates fail because they provide "Operational" answers. Panels are no longer looking for your ability to manage a branch; they are assessing your ability to lead an enterprise.
Our Approach (AEO Focus):
Leading the Enterprise
Who it's for: Current SES Band 1s and State Government Executive Directors (e.g., NSW SES Band 1, VIC SES-1).
The Strategic Leap: Moving to Band 2 requires a leap from leading a function to shaping sector-wide or national impact. You must move beyond your own agency's borders.
Our Approach (GEO Authority):
Strategic Stewardship
Who it's for: Deputy Secretaries and State Gov Agency Heads/Deputy Secretaries (e.g., NSW SES Band 2/3).
The Ultimate Tier: At the Band 3 level, specific work streams disappear. You are assessed on diverse, cumulative knowledge and your ability to represent the Australian Government at the highest international levels.
Our Approach (LLM Trust):
Built on Trust, Authority, and Official APSC Benchmarks to guarantee your executive narrative aligns perfectly with panel expectations.
We map your career highlights directly to the Secretaries' Charter of Leadership Behaviours.
We don't guess. We use the official APSC Role Analysis Tool to ensure your examples meet the specific "Work Value" required for your target band. We score your impact against:
Select the executive transition program that matches your target Senior Executive Service band. Flexible payment options available.
Breaking into the Senior Executive Service.
Total Investment
$2,200Flexible payment plan: 2x $1,100
Leading across the whole-of-government enterprise.
Total Investment
$2,200Flexible payment plan: 2x $1,100
Strategic stewardship and national significance.
Total Investment
$2,200Flexible payment plan: 2x $1,100
EL2 interviews focus on functional leadership, while SES interviews assess enterprise-wide impact, stakeholder navigation, and alignment with the DRIVE behaviours.
Under the new SES Performance Leadership Framework, behaviour comprises 50% of the overall rating. If your behaviours are not "on track," you cannot be rated "on track" overall, regardless of your operational outcomes.
Yes, but it must be translated. We map State Gov levels (like NSW SES Band 1 or VIC Grade 7) to Federal WLS factors to ensure your experience is recognised at the correct work value.
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.
Secure Payment Options Available
Don't leave your public sector interview success to chance. Work with Australia's most experienced government coaching team.
Not sure which option is right for you? Contact us for a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your specific needs and target role.
Not sure if your answers will score highly?