PANKAJ KUMAR
Auckland,New Zealand
Summary
Experienced legal and immigration professional with over 16 years of litigation and more than five years of public sector service in New Zealand. Skilled in evidence gathering, risk assessment, and application of legislation in immigration, compliance, and social development settings. Proven ability to manage investigations, support vulnerable clients, and produce well-reasoned decisions in line with the Immigration Act 2009 and related frameworks. Recognised for analytical insight, strong writing ability, and collaborative leadership in fast-paced, high-integrity environments.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Central Processing Officer (CPU)
Ministry of Social Development (MSD)
Auckland, New Zealand
04.2025 - Current
- Conduct manual and electronic verification of client income declarations to determine entitlement eligibility.
- Identify and investigate irregularities in applications to ensure compliance with welfare legislation.
- Manage sensitive information discreetly while maintaining accuracy and audit readiness.
- Support multi-queue processing and advise peers on procedural accuracy.
Immigration Officer
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
Henderson, New Zealand
11.2024 - 07.2025
- Investigated visa applications, applied the Immigration Act 2009, and determined outcomes based on statutory criteria.
- Interviewed applicants, employers, and witnesses to collect evidence and verify authenticity.
- Collaborated with Intelligence, Compliance, and Legal teams on non-compliance and exploitation cases.
- Produced robust written decisions aligned with procedural fairness and natural justice.
Legal Executive
Legal Associates Ltd
Auckland, New Zealand
06.2020 - 05.2022
- Researched and reviewed materials for legal compliance and case preparation.
- Drafted pleadings, contracts, and submissions in civil, employment, and commercial matters.
- Liaised with government bodies (Police, NZTA) to expedite dispute resolution.
Customer Service Representative
BP Mercury
Mt Albert, New Zealand
02.2020 - 09.2020
- Delivered client service, handled complaints, and ensured site health & safety compliance.
Advocate and Legal Consultant
Independent Lawyer – Supreme Court of India & High Courts
07.2003 - 09.2019
- Conducted litigation in civil, criminal, and family law; examined witnesses and prepared trial strategy.
- Provided counsel on legal compliance, corporate and regulatory risk, and criminal liability.
- Mentored junior lawyers and delivered lectures on consumer and cyber law.
Education
MBA -
Auckland Institute of Studies
01.2021
Ph.D. - Law (Corporate Criminal Liability)
Rajasthan
India01.2019
LL.M. -
Sunrise University
Rajasthan, India01.2016
LL.B. -
Faculty of Law
Delhi, India01.2003
B.Com. -
University of Delhi
Delhi, India01.1997
Skills
- Application of NZ legislation and regulatory frameworks
- Investigations and evidence analysis
- Report writing and legal documentation
- Risk assessment and decision making
- Interviewing and stakeholder engagement
- Confidential data and case management
- Support for vulnerable complainants and witnesses
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail
- Microsoft Office
- CRM
- Case management systems
Accomplishments
- MVP Award, CPU Mangere, MSD (2024)
- National Delegate, Public Service Association (MSD)
- Guest speaker for various Law Colleges of India
References
Available upon requests
Personal Information
Marital Status: NZ Permanent Resident
Professional Attributes
- Mahi Tahi – Better Together: Collaborative and community-minded
- Maia – Bold and Brave: Takes initiative in complex investigations
- Pae Kahurangi – Build Our Future: Invests in continuous learning and integrity
- Pono me te Tika – Own It: Accountable for fair, evidence-based outcomes
Timeline
Central Processing Officer (CPU)
Ministry of Social Development (MSD)
04.2025 - Current
Immigration Officer
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
11.2024 - 07.2025
Legal Executive
Legal Associates Ltd
06.2020 - 05.2022
Customer Service Representative
BP Mercury
02.2020 - 09.2020
Advocate and Legal Consultant
Independent Lawyer – Supreme Court of India & High Courts
07.2003 - 09.2019
MBA -
Auckland Institute of Studies
Ph.D. - Law (Corporate Criminal Liability)
Rajasthan
LL.M. -
Sunrise University
LL.B. -
Faculty of Law
B.Com. -
University of Delhi