Te Kani Te Wiata
Auckland,Kaukapakapa
Summary
Talented professional considered a knowledgeable leader and dedicated problem solver. Brings 40+ years of valuable expertise to forward organizational objectives and add value. Attentive to detail with experience in coordinating projects, programs and improvements. Focused Professional adept at planning, directing and maintaining continuous operations in various departments. Experienced in directing personnel and improving operational effectiveness. Applying creative and analytical approach to operating procedures for continuous workplace improvement. Skilled at identifying or anticipating problems and providing solutions. Excels through mentoring, training and empowering team to excel in performance. Determined professional adept at assigning tasks to team members based on individual strengths. Communicated with key stakeholders to ascertain output / goal requirements. Hardworking and passionate professional with strong organizational skills eager to influence, add value and give back to the organization. Ready to help and guide teams to achieve organizational goals. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Project Manager
New Zealand Defence Force
06.2022 - Current
- Established effective communication among team members for enhanced collaboration and successful task / project completion.
- Assisted with development of comprehensive project plans with clear timelines, milestones, and budget requirements, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality results.
- Managed risk assessments and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize potential issues during project process.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams and resolved conflicts, maintaining positive work environment throughout project lifecycle.
- Monitored progress against established goals, adjusting schedules and resources as needed to keep projects on track.
- Remained positive and flexible to mitigate project barriers.
- Established effective communication among team members and partners to enhance collaboration and successful teamwork of all project teams.
Māori Cultural Advisor to the Chief of Navy
New Zealand Defence Force
09.2015 - 04.2022
- Advised organizations on cultural sensitivity, leading to establishment of inclusive policies and practices. Integral knowledge of RNZN Bi-cultural Strategic Benefits Mapping.
- Served as liaison between RNZN and Iwi Māori, fostering mutual respect, empathy, relationship building and understanding among all parties. Worked specifically with Ngāti Te Whiti, Te Tai Rāwhiti and Ngāti Kurī
- Organized or supported cultural events across both RNZN and NZDF to celebrate and promote cultural awareness and safety within RNZN and NZDF.
- Provided language support and cultural advice for all NZDF Senior Leaders, ensuring a safe environment whilst facilitating effective communication across various internal and external Hui.
- Mentored individuals navigating new cultural environments, providing guidance, direction, encouragement and understanding on adjustment strategies and resources available to them.
- Presented at conferences on topics related to culture, cultural awareness and cultural safety; raising visibility of organization's expertise or lack or expertise in said areas.
- Cultural Advisor for Naval Leadership Board, providing Māori World View as required.
- Built partnerships with related organizations to develop support and gain greater attention to cultural awareness and safety.
Weapon Engineering Warrant Officer
New Zealand Defence Force
02.2015 - 09.2015
- Enhanced Weapon Engineering Team efficiency by streamlining communication and implementing effective training programs.
- Increased operational readiness through thorough equipment maintenance and timely repairs.
- Conducted comprehensive risk assessments for mission planning, ensuring safety and success in all operations.
- Mentored junior personnel, fostering cohesive unit focused on achieving organizational goals.
- Managed logistics operations, ensuring timely delivery of critical materials and supplies to support missions.
- Streamlined administrative processes, significantly reducing errors and enhancing overall workflow efficiency.
- Established strong relationships with external partners, enabling seamless collaboration on joint initiatives.
- Promoted professional development opportunities for staff members, nurturing culture of continuous learning and growth.
- Directed emergency response efforts during crisis situations, minimizing negative impacts on personnel and resources.
- Championed diversity and inclusion initiatives within Department, cultivating safe inclusive environment that promoted high morale among all team members.
Maintenance Manager
Royal New Zealand Navy
02.2012 - 02.2015
- Cultivated strong relationships with major donors, leading to enhanced collaboration and sustained contributions.
- Improved equipment reliability by implementing preventive maintenance training programs and managing repair schedules.
- Managed a team of Investigative technicians, providing guidance and support for skill development and performance improvement.
- Enhanced safety standards through regular inspections, staff training, and adherence to Health and Safety guidelines.
- Streamlined work order processes for quicker response times, resulting in increased productivity and reduced costs.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Māori Development
Auckland University of Technology
Auckland, NZ07.2025
Skills
- Project Management
- Technical Support
- Document Management
- Work Flow Planning
- Risk Management
- Project Tracking
- Schedule Management
- Data Analysis
- Strategic Planning
- Cross-Cultural Negotiation
- Critical Thinking
- Emotional Intelligence
- Active Listening
- Conflict Resolution
- Community Outreach
- Public Speaking
Timeline
Project Manager
New Zealand Defence Force
06.2022 - Current
Māori Cultural Advisor to the Chief of Navy
New Zealand Defence Force
09.2015 - 04.2022
Weapon Engineering Warrant Officer
New Zealand Defence Force
02.2015 - 09.2015
Maintenance Manager
Royal New Zealand Navy
02.2012 - 02.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Māori Development
Auckland University of Technology
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