Applications for the vacant job of Victoria Police’s chief commissioner close on Friday with the front-runner scratched. In the present political landscape, the successful candidate will inherit a job that spin doctors would describe as “challenging”.

Acting Chief Commissioner Rick Nugent (who was odds on to be awarded the five-year contract) had six weeks with his feet under the desk. It was enough for him to walk out the door.

Acting Police Chief Commissioner Rick Nugent will not seek the permanent job.Credit: Wayne Taylor.

Nugent, a career cop popular with his colleagues, initially applied for the permanent job, but for the last two weeks has had second thoughts. He drew up a list of pros and cons. The cons won. The job would be satisfying, but all-consuming.

Last Friday he decided to withdraw. “I just didn’t think I had five years in me.”

The job is crushing. The chief is the CEO of a massive organisation that deals daily with life and death situations, but the position also carries a massive flag-bearing role.

The boss is expected to attend retirements, graduation ceremonies, funerals, check in on sick........

© The Age