Charles Sturt University Distinguished Alumnus of the Year – Professional Excellence
This award recognises outstanding leaders in their industry or profession who have made or are making a significant and positive impact on their communities, their industry or the world.
Winner: Jordan Emery
Career: Chief Executive Officer, Ambulance Victoria
Course: Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic), 2011; Associate Degree in Clinical Practice (Paramedic), 2008
Jordan Emery is one of Australia's most respected healthcare executives, recognised for his leadership in transforming ambulance services and advancing inclusive, person-centred healthcare. As Chief Executive Officer of Ambulance Victoria, he leads one of the world's largest ambulance services, delivering emergency and mobile healthcare to millions of Victorians.
Throughout his career, Jordan has championed cultural reform, workforce wellbeing and compassionate leadership, helping reshape organisational cultures across the ambulance sector. His leadership philosophy, centred on trust, vulnerability and psychological safety, has influenced healthcare organisations nationally and established him as a leading voice on contemporary healthcare leadership. Prior to joining Ambulance Victoria, he held senior executive roles across ambulance services in Tasmania and New South Wales, leading significant organisational change and service improvement initiatives.
Jordan's influence extends beyond operational leadership through governance, education and professional advocacy. He serves as a Board Director of the Council of Ambulance Authorities and Chair of its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Forum, helping shape policy, leadership standards and workforce culture across the profession. An Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Paramedicine at the University of Tasmania, he is passionate about developing the next generation of healthcare leaders and clinicians.
Awarded the Ambulance Service Medal in the 2024 King's Birthday Honours, Jordan continues to drive innovation, equity and excellence in emergency healthcare, while maintaining a deep commitment to the communities he serves.
