Tuesday 24 August 2004

Appointment Of Chief Executive Of New Zealand Customs Service And Comptroller Of Customs

The State Services Commissioner, Mark Prebble, today announced the appointment of Martyn Dunne as Chief Executive of the New Zealand Customs Service and Comptroller of Customs. Major General Dunne is presently the Commander Joint Forces New Zealand in the New Zealand Defence Force.

Martyn joined the New Zealand Army in 1977 and up to 1989 held various appointments ranging from service with the New Zealand Special Air Service (SAS) to command and training positions in New Zealand and Australia.

From 1989 to1991 he was Commandant of the NZ Army’s Officer Training establishment and in 1992 was appointed Director, Joint Operations and Plans in Defence headquarters. From 1995-1997 he commanded the NZ Army’s largest operational formation of over 2000 personnel. Subsequent appointments included Director Force development and, in 1999-2000, command of New Zealand Forces and international troops in East Timor during New Zealand’s largest deployment since WWII.

Martyn was appointed Commander Joint Forces New Zealand in 2001 following a major reorganisation of the Defence Force, which resulted in all operational activities coming under his command. In this role he is responsible for the leadership, financial management and control of international and multi-level defence activities in New Zealand and in some 15 overseas locations.

He is a graduate from the Australian College of Defence and Strategic Studies and from the Australian Command and Staff College. He has a Master of Arts Degree in Strategic Studies from La Trobe University, Melbourne. Martyn was made a Companion of The New Zealand Order of Merit in 2000 following his service in East Timor.

Mark Prebble says Martyn has a very strong background in security and counter terrorism and is experienced in leading large numbers of staff. He has been involved in extensive inter-agency work, particularly amongst the border and enforcement agencies.

“He has represented New Zealand overseas and has managed international relationships and negotiations. He has excellent general management, planning and resource management skills and a high level of personal integrity.

“Martyn has a clear understanding of the role and the current and future priorities of the department, within an environment that places an increased focus on international security. He is an experienced professional who is committed to working within the strong culture of the New Zealand Customs Service.

“Martyn Dunne will start as Chief Executive on 20 September 2004. I would like to thank John Secker for his work as Acting Chief Executive of the department during the past few months. John Secker took on this role in very sad circumstances following the death of Robin Dare. I would also like to thank the management and staff of the New Zealand Customs Service for their commitment to continuing the good work of the department during that distressing time,” Mark Prebble said.

Background

New Zealand Customs Service

The New Zealand Customs Service is responsible for checking and clearing goods, passengers and craft arriving at or crossing New Zealand’s borders and for collecting revenue on goods and activities consistent with Government policy. The department has over 1,000 staff. Further information can be found at: www.customs.govt.nz

ENDS

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