Kirk Leech Email & Phone Number

Responsible for the planning, support and management of operational military and commercial satellite communications for the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).A deep understanding of NZDF SATCOM requirements being able to effectively manage commercial satellite providers and military customer needs.Maintain strong business relationships with Defence and commercial satellite agencies who provide services to the NZDF.Instrumental in the renegotiation of the NZDF Commercial SATCOM Combined Service Pool contract.Coach and mentor Military Operational Team Leaders in their roles and responsibilities of NZDF SATCOM requirements.

Responsible for managing a deployable UNCLASSIFIED network, applications and communication bearers in support of Humanitarian and Distaster Relief operations. Ensuring compatibility between NZ Defence Force and other Government Agency CIS resources while working in a UNCLASSIFIED network.

Wellington

A deep understanding of the purpose and use of a variety of SATCOM systems utilised within the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF). Knowledge to predict and determine a timeline for all maritime vessels based on their activity period and individual SATCOM requirements.The ability to communicate with and influence others is used to get significant increased value for money from satellite commercial vendors - resulting in naval assets getting a required level of service while still obtaining a projected saving to the NZDF.Ensuring all commercial contracts are fully compliant with Defence regulations and compliance with Defence Corporate Services.In-depth knowledge on processes and technology associated with Wideband Global Satellite (WGS) systems utilised by the NZDF.Direct communication team in providing 24/7 support for Wideband and Narrowband SATCOM services in support of Operations and Exercises around the globe.

Offshore Patrol Vessel - Hmnzs Wellington

Responsible for the ships communications sub systems meeting the executive management’s requirements during operational periods. Providing satellite, Line of Site, and Over the Horizon communications. Custodian of classified material ensuring that routines are followed diligently and security is not breeched. Responsible for the welfare, career management and training of the communications team.

Auckland, New Zealand

Based at the Communications Station ensured that direct communication links from shore to maritime platforms were maintained. Successfully troubleshooting satellite and HF connectivity issues as they occurred. Pivotal to the introduction of SharePoint to the department creating user accounts and workspaces.

Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff - Northwood

Primary responsibilites included the planning, management and technical support of a diverse range of CIS systems to enable Exercise Control Authorities (EXCON) run successful high profile exercises. Pivotal in the planning, preparation and execution stages of large audienced Tri-Service, National, NATO training events. Implemented policies, standards, plans and procedures for an EXCON IT infrastructure liaising with various agencies and multinational contractors ensuring operational capabilities are maintained at all times. Managed the availability of out sourced services including new and experimental IT systems, ensuring contracts are available to rectify issues and manage services at all times. Constantly evaluated existing configuration management of current systems and implemented any new systems that had been identified as a requirement. Personally managed small team of personnel to provide customer service support for the various IT systems being utilised by the training audience, troubleshooting and dealing with CIS issues as and when they occur. Successfully outsourced the upgrading of current IT infrastructure to enable specialist systems to be placed in situ, beneficial to exercise staff and training audiences, improving service with minimal disruption to departments involved.

Stavanger Area, Norway

Training Co-ordinator responsible for managing the Training Organisation for a large IT infrastructure on a NATO training site. Identifying specific courses for individuals. Sourcing best training providers. Updating personal records, prioritising training schedules for separate IT departments. Also created a set of procedures for additional personnel requirements for NATO training events based in Norway. Key contact for Human Resources Managers from other European nations.

Served on various Royal Naval Warships and Shore Establishments within Her Majesty’s Royal Navy.