The Vice Chief of Defence Force (VCDF) is a senior appointment in the New Zealand Defence Force. The position was established in February 2004 in response to the Review of Accountabilities and Structural Arrangements between the Ministry of Defence and the New Zealand Defence Force undertaken by Don Hunn (known as the "Hunn Review") and reported on in September 2002. Hunn recommended greater integration between top-level military and civil personnel responsible for the command and governance of the New Zealand Defence Force, and suggested the position of VCDF be created to assist the Chief of Defence Force as a chief staff officer. The current VCDF, since 27 August 2024, is Rear Admiral Mat Williams.
Appointees
The following list chronologically records those who have held the post of VCDF, with rank and honours as at the completion of the individual's term.
Rank Name Postnominals Service Term began Term endedAir Vice Marshal David Bamfield RNZAF February 2004 February 2008Rear Admiral Jack Steer RNZN February 2008 November 2012Major General Tim Keating* Army December 2012 January 2014Air Vice Marshal Kevin Short* RNZAF 31 March 2014 30 June 2018Air Vice Marshal Tony Davies* RNZAF 10 September 2018 6 June 2024Rear Admiral Mat Williams RNZN 27 August 2024 present
References