Allyson Wood,Customs lecturer, NZ Maritime School
What were you doing before your new position?
The roles of customs broker for DHL/Danzas involved customs clearing of goods imported from around the world, mainly Australia. I was also involved with export clearances. This role as a broker for an air freight forwarder
gives me a well rounded work experience within the logistics industry.
The position as a lecturer is building on a role that I enjoyed at DHL/Danzas, helping other fellow brokers, service agents and customers with customs queries requiring importing/exporting goods and entry writing.
Why did you apply for this job?
In 2003 customs brokers were regulated after nearly 10 years of de-regulation. During this time little formal training was available for customs brokers so the standard of skills varies. This was a chance to impart practical knowledge so that people going into the freight forwarding industry are better prepared.
What are the major challenges ahead of you?
My biggest challenge is to improve the standard of work practices and ethics within customs broking, I hope to provide a sound customs course that is part of a well rounded logistic course.
Another challenge is to establish good lines of communication with border agencies and logistic industry, so border agency work is understood and importer/exporters meet the requirements for importing/ exporting.
What qualities do you bring to the job?
I am hard working, focused and enjoy helping people. I tend to be analytical and inquiring when presented with challenges. I am keen to learn new skills.
Who will you be teaching?
Mainly adults who have some experience within freight forwarding or hope to work as customs brokers. A number with overseas experience attend so they gain an understanding of NZ customs practices.
How will you judge success in your new job?
By seeing my students gaining the employment they are aspiring to and the feedback from industry that the courses meet their needs.
What are your hobbies?
Hockey, reading and needlework.
POCKET CV
ALLYSON WOOD
Customs broker, DHL International, 1998-2005
Accounts, Dilworth Audiology, 1997-1998
Purchasing officer, Paykel Engineering, 1987-1990
