Rua Taharangi (Sam) Samuel Ellis-Nicholson
Browns Bay,AUK
Summary
Operational professional with experience in surveillance, intelligence support, and multi-agency operations at New Zealand Customs Service. Known for strong situational awareness, sound judgement, and the ability to operate effectively in high-pressure environments.
Previously owned and operated a roofing business, developing practical experience in project delivery, team leadership, budgeting, and client management.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Customs Officer (SCO G1)
New Zealand Customs Service
01.2023 - Current
- Conduct surveillance and operational support activities linked to cross-border criminal investigations.
- Coordinate operational activity with internal teams and external enforcement agencies.
- Produce detailed intelligence and operational reports supporting investigative outcomes.
- Handle and process sensitive evidence in accordance with legal protocols.
- Maintain operational readiness of specialist equipment and vehicles.
- Exercise sound judgement and discretion in high-pressure operational environments
Managing Director
Ellis Solutions Ltd
2021 - 12.2022
- Founded and managed a residential and commercial roofing business.
- Oversaw project delivery, budgeting, client management, and contractor coordination.
- Expanded operations into commercial roofing projects.
- Led and trained a small team to maintain high safety and workmanship standards.
- Managed quoting, procurement, and project scheduling.
Roofer/ Team Leader/ Operations Manager
Roof rehab Ltd
Auckland
01.2019 - 2021
- Specialized in espan cladding, roofing, fixing, maintaining, and erecting new and old roofs to ensure structural integrity.
- Led team to ensure quality workmanship, effectively communicate with key stakeholders, and prioritize job tasks for timely project completion.
- Managed operations within small team to streamline support for boss's workload and enhance overall team efficiency.
- Effective team communication and coordination.
- Effective time management to ensure deadlines are met.
- Customer and supplier engagement to find the best outcome for all.
- Aluminium welding and flashing work.
- Worked in Auckland, performing various construction tasks.
Royal New Zealand Armoured Core - Queen Alexandra Mounted Rifles / Royal New Zealand Infantry Corp -1RNZIR
NZ Army
Palmerston North, New Zealand
01.2013 - 01.2016
- Completed soldier training focused on leadership, discipline, and operational readiness.
- Led physical training activities supporting squadron capability.
- Assisted in coordinating field exercises and training activities.
- Developed strong teamwork, resilience, and decision-making under pressure.
- Awarded Sergeant Major of the Army Award for leadership potential and commitment to NZDF values
Skills
Operations & Compliance
- Regulatory and legislative compliance
- Governance and risk management
- Operational planning and coordination
- Incident and issue management
Analysis & Reporting
- Intelligence analysis and reporting
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Situational awareness and decision-making
Leadership & Collaboration
- Stakeholder engagement
- Cross-agency collaboration
- Team leadership and coordination
- Ethical leadership and accountability
Timeline
Senior Customs Officer (SCO G1)
New Zealand Customs Service
01.2023 - Current
Roofer/ Team Leader/ Operations Manager
Roof rehab Ltd
01.2019 - 2021
Royal New Zealand Armoured Core - Queen Alexandra Mounted Rifles / Royal New Zealand Infantry Corp -1RNZIR
NZ Army
01.2013 - 01.2016
Managing Director
Ellis Solutions Ltd
2021 - 12.2022