Robert Capstick

Security Operations Advisor | Law Enforcement & Operations Expert | Specialising in Extractive Industries, Risk Management, & Crisis Response

New Zealand

About

As an experienced Security Operations Advisor, I have spent years honing my expertise across security, law enforcement, and military operations, with a particular focus on the extractive industries, including oil, gas, and mining. My background allows me to confidently manage security during major construction and development projects, where I’ve developed and implemented robust security programs that safeguard both people and assets. I’ve conducted numerous risk assessments and provided clear, actionable guidance to ensure operational efficiency and reduce risk exposure. I’m passionate about mentoring and guiding security teams, using my experience to train staff and enhance overall security compliance. One of my key strengths lies in designing and implementing security systems tailored to the specific challenges of each project. This, coupled with my strong crisis management and investigation skills, enables me to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging threats, while maintaining close liaison with law enforcement agencies to resolve issues and ensure compliance with local laws and international security standards. Throughout my career, I’ve demonstrated strong leadership and project management abilities, working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to deliver strategic solutions. I take pride in my ability to navigate complex security environments, and I am dedicated to upholding the highest standards of security and human rights principles, ensuring the safety of personnel and the protection of critical assets. I’m always eager to take on new challenges in the security field, where I can continue to leverage my skills in leadership, risk management, and team development to safeguard operations and drive success.

Experience

  • Security Manager at Digicel Pacific
    Aug 2019 - Present · 6 yrs 11 mos

    As Security Manager for Digicel PNG, I lead daily security operations in Lae, Papua New Guinea and across the Morobe province, ensuring the safety of both assets and personnel. I’m responsible for implementing and monitoring security systems, always staying aligned with Papua New Guinea’s health and safety laws and company policies. A key part of my role is compiling and sharing critical intelligence with internal and external stakeholders to support informed decision-making. I also conduct thorough investigations into criminal activities and work closely with government authorities to facilitate legal action. Additionally, I provide risk assessments and regular updates through detailed reports and briefings, helping to maintain proactive risk management across the region. A few key achievements in this tenure include: • Enhanced staff and police officials' personal safety and security compliance through comprehensive assessments, coaching, and tailored training on company procedures. • Developed and executed crisis evacuation plans, ensuring swift and safe staff relocations during emergencies. • Streamlined external security operations by coordinating activities of security suppliers, optimising resource allocation. • Elevated local security personnel performance by managing day-to-day activities and delivering targeted training to improve reporting accuracy and operational effectiveness.

  • Security Manager at Digicel PNG Limited, Lae, Papua New Guinea
    Aug 2019 - Present · 6 yrs 11 mos

    Direct daily security operations across Morobe province, overseeing safety of assets and personnel. Lead implementation and monitoring of security systems in strict alignment with Papua New Guinea’s health and safety laws and company policies. Compile and disseminate critical intelligence to internal and external stakeholders, fostering informed decision-making. Conduct in-depth investigations into criminal activities, engaging with government authorities to facilitate legal action. Provide timely risk assessments and updates through comprehensive reports and verbal briefings, ensuring proactive risk management. Enhanced staff and police officials' personal safety and security compliance through comprehensive assessments, coaching, and tailored training on company procedures. Developed and executed crisis evacuation plans, ensuring swift and safe staff relocations during emergencies. Streamlined external security operations by coordinating activities of security suppliers, optimising resource allocation. Elevated local security personnel performance by managing day-to-day activities and delivering targeted training to improve reporting accuracy and operational effectiveness.

  • New Zealand Police (On-site)
    • Senior Constable – Wellington International Airport
      2017 - 2020 · 3 yrs

      As a Senior Constable with the New Zealand Police Force at Wellington International Airport, I was responsible for overseeing safety and governance, ensuring strict compliance with New Zealand laws and regulations. I worked closely with key government agencies like customs, immigration, and aviation security to monitor and address criminal activity within the airport and its surroundings. My role involved conducting thorough investigations into breaches of the NZ Civil Aviation Act, ensuring aviation safety standards were upheld. I also engaged with external stakeholders to assess risks, mitigate threats, and enhance overall airport security, playing a crucial role in protecting passengers, personnel, and assets. A few key achievements in this tenure include: • Strengthened airport security by collaborating with agencies such as New Zealand customs, immigration, and aviation security, effectively mitigating criminal activity and nurturing secure environment. • Spearheaded intelligence gathering and operational planning, executing operations targeting serious drug offences and organised crime networks. • Facilitated deportation procedures by assisting immigration NZ, escorting offenders to home countries, and interviewing returning individuals to prevent recidivism. • Delivered personal protection for VIPs transiting through airport, emphasising safety and discretion throughout movements.

    • Crewman - New Zealand Police Maritime Unit
      2015 - 2017 · 2 yrs

      As a Crewman with the New Zealand Police Maritime Unit, I played an active role in search and rescue operations and body recovery missions across the Wellington region and other parts of New Zealand. I investigated maritime offences, gathering crucial evidence and working closely with local authorities to support prosecutions. My role also involved apprehending offenders during operations, contributing to public safety and the enforcement of maritime laws. Additionally, I provided detailed reports on incidents and actions taken, helping to build strong legal cases and ensure justice was served. A few key achievements in this tenure include: • Enhanced national security by leading joint enforcement patrols alongside agencies, like New Zealand customs, immigration New Zealand, and Ministry of Transport, strengthening interagency collaboration and operational effectiveness. • Prepared police officers for overseas deployments by delivering targeted training, equipping them with skills and knowledge to succeed in international assignments.

    • Armed Offenders Squad (Tactical Response)
      2006 - 2016 · 10 yrs

      As a member of the Armed Offenders Squad with the New Zealand Police Force, I responded swiftly to high-risk situations involving serious offenders, offering specialised tactical support to ensure public safety. My role involved conducting covert surveillance on high-risk individuals, gathering vital intelligence to help prevent and resolve criminal activities. I also provided armed protection for VIPs during sensitive operations and escorted large sums of cash and valuable assets, mitigating risks and ensuring secure handling of high-value resources. Throughout, I was committed to maintaining safety and security in critical, high-pressure environments. A few key achievements in this tenure include: • Delivered successful outcomes in complex operations by leading specialist teams, deploying resources, and making decisive tactical decisions under pressure. • Elevated team performance by mentoring and training staff in breaching techniques and critical operational activities. • Strengthened intelligence efforts through covert surveillance of high-risk individuals, contributing to apprehension of dangerous offenders.