Matthew Blackburn
New Zealand
Summary
An experienced Counter Terrorist (C.T) and Maritime Counter Terrorist (MCT) Operator with a distinguished career in the New Zealand Special Air Service (1NZSAS Group). Proven leadership and operational skills in high-risk environments. Over 15 years of post-service experience as a civilian contractor in Iraq and Kurdistan. Adept at training, team leadership, tactical operations, and high-level security coordination.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Counter Terrorist Team Operator & Troop Sergeant
New Zealand Special Air Service (1NZSAS Group)
- Served numerous 12-month deployments as a C.T Team Operator.
- Progressed to two 12-month appointments as C.T Team Troop Sergeant.
- Conducted and instructed specialized operations across diverse platforms: buildings, aircraft, trains, buses, ships, and oil rigs (MLT).
- Specialized in method of entry (MOE), room combat, fast roping, and weapons training.
- Shooting Coach.
- Assisted in planning and execution of team assaults and training programs.
- Demonstrated consistent leadership and team development under pressure.
Civilian Contractor – Iraq & Kurdistan
01.2003 - 01.2018
- Served in multiple roles including:
- Personal Security Detachment (PSD) Team Member
- Team Trauma Medic
- Shooting Coach
- Provided advanced tactical training to local and international personnel.
- Managed security operations in high-threat environments.
- Maintained high personal fitness and operational readiness.
Skills
- Counter Terrorism Operations
- Maritime Counter Terrorism (MCT)
- Method of Entry (MOE)
- Close Quarters Battle / Room Combat
- Tactical Planning & Leadership
- Fast Roping & Aerial Insertion Techniques
- Trauma Medical Support
- Security Risk Management
- Physical Training and Fitness
- Weapons Training & Instruction (Qualified Shooting Coach)
Languages
English (Fluent)
Timeline
Civilian Contractor – Iraq & Kurdistan
01.2003 - 01.2018
Counter Terrorist Team Operator & Troop Sergeant
New Zealand Special Air Service (1NZSAS Group)
Similar Profiles
Yeshi LhamoYeshi Lhamo
F&B Supervisor at Compass Group, Air New Zealand LoungeF&B Supervisor at Compass Group, Air New Zealand Lounge
Vanessa Ramos Felicio NetoVanessa Ramos Felicio Neto
Sous Chef at Air New Zealand Lounge - Compass GroupSous Chef at Air New Zealand Lounge - Compass Group
Prerna ChandPrerna Chand
Lounge Assistant at Compass Group/ Air New ZealandLounge Assistant at Compass Group/ Air New Zealand
Isabella GasanIsabella Gasan
Babysitter at Lyndon SharmaBabysitter at Lyndon Sharma
Dragana IgnjatovicDragana Ignjatovic
Real Estate Salesperson at Ray WhiteReal Estate Salesperson at Ray White