Originally Posted by Unregistered

Yes, to qualify to apply for HQ positions e.g. during OPE, CEP of SEO1-equivalent or above is required.

But bear in mind that CEP can also be adjusted back down, especially if the panel assesses that the officer's potential has changed with respect to their 'remaining runway' (age, basically). So even if you qualified for a HQ position at age 30, if you don't actually climb the ladder and end up languishing, your CEP is not likely to still be at SEO1 or above.