1. Tactical, operational and strategic intelligence analysis knowledge and experience
As a Customs Officer I understand the importance of intelligence in all facets of the Service. I am an honest and trustworthy officer whose performance reviews reflect all the principles required for intelligence analysis.
I understand the Intelligence Cycle and the products and services that result from it.
As an Inspections Officer I realise the importance of the information I supply to Intelligence. I am constantly collecting raw information in my day to day work and can quickly decide whether the data is worthy of a CUSMOD report. As a result of any decisions that require action I always promptly and accurately prepare reports that are of a high standard.
All areas I have worked in have had associated risks which need to be identified and treated. I understand the principles of risk management and the need for it to be incorporated into all planning and operational processes.
During my correspondence study with Massey I developed my research skills, for example: as a requirement for the Business Communications paper I had to present a study on a specific topic for presentation to my peers. This assessment required that I collect information from various sources e.g. Library, internet etc, analyse and interpret that data and disseminate it back through my verbal presentation.
2. Identify and gather relevant information
Using my profiling and examining skills I am constantly identifying new and potential sources of information.
I am frequently required to question clients and gather information that will assist me in making effective decisions. Any relevant information I collect is always conveyed to the Intelligence cycle in a confident manner. If a situation arises where I am unsure of necessary action, or need advice, I will not hesitate to contact specialist officers.
Various projects I have been involved in have enabled me to develop effective planning and time management skills. Outside of work I manage the Auckland National League Soccer team. This is an indepth role, which requires all aspects of planning and a high level of organisation to be successful.
I understand Operational Orders and the importance of clear and concise Terms of Reference. I am an excellent communicator with good listening skills and enjoy the challenge of negotiating a beneficial outcome for all when the need arises.
I am constantly dealing with both internal and external clients that present a range of potentially problematic issues. I always apply logical thinking and sound judgement to each situation and can resolve these issues amicably while applying the necessary policies and legislation. I work well under pressure and maintain a confident attitude towards my work.
As a regular part of my function I am often locating information which requires more indepth research to decide whether goods should be referred to other sections or agencies. I will often use tools such as CUSMOD and the internet to assist me in these decisions.
3. Analyse information effectively and efficiently
In my various roles, I have gained valuable experience and have enhanced my abilities to evaluate and analyse goods and documents effectively during this time. I am fully aware of the impact any conclusions and recommendations I make will have on mine and other business units.
In my role as Health Liaison Officer I am often called upon to make recommendations to staff regarding medicines and advise the appropriate action that should be taken. Any recommendations I make are always well supported by necessary research, data and relevant information.
I am confident in my use of CUSMOD system, the internet, my profiling skills and my ability to liaise and develop good working relationships with internal and external business units to effectively analyse and interpret any information as required.
As a product of any analysis completed, any reports required are always clear, concise and relevant to the objectives of the work area concerned and the Service as a whole.
At the Inspections Base I screened and analysed manifests on a regular basis and often, in the course of examination would need to analyse invoices and ensure that contents of packages were correct in accordance with them.
I have excellent written communication skills and understand the need to be accurate and professional in all forms of media. I also try and anticipate the needs of clients and exceed expectations wherever possible.
My Customs experience assists me in adding value to all information I produce. I am always collecting and processing information and understand the workings of the Intelligence cycle once I place information into the system.
I always find it rewarding to see the results and outcomes of “hits” I have made and find the intelligence produced as a consequence of this, invaluable in my work as an Officer.
4. Provide intelligence to meet client needs. Particular emphasis to be placed on the Services strategic plan and the Intelligence Plan.
I have been involved in a number of projects and operations where I have been required to produce and interpret reports, data, processes and the like to meet the needs of our clients. I am always punctual and meet deadlines without problems. I produce a high standard of work that is congruent with the Customs Service strategic plan and am confident I can work effectively within the guidelines of the Intelligence plan.
I am confident in my oral communication skills and frequently brief staff at team meetings on any “finds” or business related matters that need to be conveyed.
I have intercepted goods where I have needed to do further research and liaise with other areas to make an effective decision. When these circumstances arise I always carry out any relevant checks and locate necessary information for presentation to these work areas so an appropriate course of action can be ensured.
I am comfortable providing feedback as required and believe it can positively affect and help promote an efficient workplace.
In operations we have undertaken I promote the two-way flow of information and believe it is essential in operations being successful.
I actively participate in any briefings as required, and understand their importance as an effective means of dissemination.