Jono Steele

Experience

• 

  New Zealand Defence Force

  Dec 2012 - Dec 2018

  In this role I was responsible for planning and coordinating global logistics movements in support of the various missions that the New Zealand Defence Force conducts on a daily basis. I managed and implemented innovative systems in order to improve organisational efficiency and I solved countless problems utilising the military appreciation process in order to ensure the NZDF could deliver effects and achieve its objectives around the world. Notable achievements from my time in this role were: - I created and implemented a freight tracking codification system which enables the NZDF to track and trace its consignments around the world.- I successfully planned and executed several large scale Humanitarian operations which had a meaningful and positive impact on thousands of peoples lives, major examples include: the Kaikoura Earthquake Response (2016) and the Ambae Volcanoe eruption (2018). Show less This was the first posting as a commissioned officer within the New Zealand Army. During this experience I: - Led a high-performing Aerial Delivery Platoon, specializing in coordinating resupply missions via airdrop in diverse and challenging environments.- Developed innovative training programs to enhance the platoon’s readiness in delivering essential supplies for mission success.- Effectively managed personnel, equipment, and resources, optimizing operational efficiency.- Fostered teamwork, professionalism, and safety, cultivating cohesion and high morale during demanding situations.- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to synchronize efforts and execute airdrop operations seamlessly.- Oversaw the maintenance of meticulous records and adhered to regulatory requirements for accurate reporting and analysis.- Adapted to dynamic environments, making critical decisions to optimize performance and accomplish mission objectives.As an Aerial Delivery Platoon Commander in the New Zealand Army, I demonstrated leadership, expertise in aerial delivery operations, and a commitment to mission success in challenging scenarios. Show less

  • Strategic Movements Planning and Operations Officer (Global) - Captain

    Oct 2016 - Dec 2018

  • Operations Officer - 10th Transport Company - Lieutenant

    Dec 2015 - Oct 2016

  • Medium Transport Platoon Commander - Officer - Lieutenant

    Dec 2014 - Dec 2015

  • Terminal Platoon Commander - Officer - Lieutenant

    Dec 2013 - Dec 2014

  • Aerial Delivery Platoon Commander - Officer - Lieutenant

    Dec 2012 - Dec 2013
• 

  MFO - Multinational Force & Observers

  Oct 2018 - May 2019

  Strategic Planner - Captain

  This role saw me deployed to Egypt for six months, during which I:- Led strategic planning initiatives for the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Egypt, a multinational peacekeeping organization overseeing the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel.- Developed and implemented a comprehensive strategic planning system, enabling the deconfliction and management of personnel, equipment, stakeholder engagement, future projects, and finance functions.- Effectively addressed and resolved logistical challenges related to the NZ contingent’s freight, optimizing the transportation and delivery processes to enhance mission support and efficiency.- Managed a New Zealand contingent of 40 personnel as a member of the NZ national headquarters element.- Contributed to the MFO’s mission of maintaining peace and stability in the region through strategic leadership, collaboration with international partners, and crisis management.This experience as a Strategic Planning Officer in the Multinational Force and Observers highlights my role in developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic planning systems, enhancing mission support, managing a New Zealand contingent, and supporting the MFO’s vital mission in maintaining peace and stability between Egypt and Israel. Show less

• 

  New Zealand Defence Force

  May 2019 - Jul 2022

  As a Senior Policy Officer, I led a small team of experts to develop and implement policies focused on enhancing logistics operations within the land domain. Areas I was responsible for included:- Policy Development: Led the development and implementation of policies and procedures governing logistics operations, covering transportation, supply chain management, maintenance, and equipment distribution. These policies ensured compliance with standards while aligning with the strategic objectives of the New Zealand.- Policy Analysis: Conducted comprehensive policy analyses to identify gaps, inefficiencies, and areas requiring updates. By recommending changes and enhancements, I facilitated improved operational effectiveness, efficiency, and compliance in logistics operations.- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders, including military branches, government agencies, and industry partners. Through these engagements, I gathered valuable insights, fostered cooperation, and ensured alignment of policies with broader organizational and national objectives.- Coordination and Implementation: Coordinated the implementation of policies and procedures across relevant units and commands within the New Zealand Army. This involved effective communication, training, and support to ensure smooth adoption and compliance with the established policies.- Monitoring and Evaluation: Conducted regular monitoring and evaluation of implemented policies to assess their effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.- Compliance and Standards: Maintained a strong focus on adherence to legal and regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and standards. Keeping abreast of policy developments and changes in the logistics field, I ensured that our policies remained up-to-date and in line with industry standards. Show less As a Capability Development Manager in the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), I spearheaded the enhancement and advancement of military capabilities within NZDF this included:- Demonstrating strategic vision by developing and implementing long-term strategic plans for capability development within the NZDF. Aligning these plans with national defense policies and priorities to ensure our forces remain agile and prepared for evolving challenges.- Capability Analysis: I conducted thorough assessments of current and future operational requirements to identify capability gaps and areas for improvement. These analyses informed our decision-making process and enabled us to prioritize development initiatives effectively.- Project Management: I led cross-functional teams and managing complex capability development projects. From defining project scope and timelines to resource allocation and budget management, I ensured successful project delivery in alignment with organizational goals.- Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborating with internal branches, units, government agencies, industry partners, and international counterparts to gather insights, exchange best practices, and leverage innovative technologies.- Risk Assessment: identified and assessed risks associated with capability development projects, while developing comprehensive mitigation strategies and contingency plans.- Evaluation and Review: conducted regular evaluations and reviews of implemented capabilities to assess their effectiveness. Drawing upon lessons learned and evolving operational requirements, I made recommendations for adjustments or enhancements to drive continuous improvement.As a Capability Development Manager, I contributed to the ongoing modernization and readiness of the NZDF. By strategically planning, managing projects, and collaborating with stakeholders, I played a crucial part in shaping the NZDF’s capabilities to meet the dynamic and evolving defense landscape. Show less As a Senior Instructor in Logistics - Transport and Movement. I played a important role in training officers within the New Zealand Army, equipping them with both technical and professional skills.In the technical realm, I provided comprehensive instruction on utilizing an appreciation/problem-solving process to effectively address complex logistics challenges. By teaching officers how to analyze and solve intricate logistical problems, I empowered them to make informed decisions and implement efficient solutions.Furthermore, I focused on developing the officers’ professional capabilities to thrive in complex and high-pressure environments. Through targeted training, I imparted valuable leadership and influence skills, equipping them to lead with confidence and excel in demanding situations.By merging technical expertise with professional development, I ensured that the officers were well-prepared to navigate and excel in the dynamic field of logistics. Show less

  • Senior Policy Officer - Major

    Dec 2021 - Jul 2022

  • Capability Development Manager - Major

    Dec 2020 - Dec 2021

  • Senior Instructor Logistics - Captain

    May 2019 - Dec 2020
• 

  New Zealand Defence Force

  Feb 2023 - now

  As Officer Commanding, 5 Movements Company (5 Mov Coy), I lead a team of 65+ people that execute vital logistics operations for the NZDF on a daily basis. My focus lies in ensuring day-to-day operations run smoothly and long-term initiatives are successfully implemented in order to ensure the NZDF maintains the ability to deploy on operations both (domestically and internationally).My roles and responsibilities in detail include:- Command Authority: I provide indispensable advice to the CO 2 CSSB (NZ's logistics battalion) and Headquarters 1 (NZ) Brigade on all Movements matters. I take command of 5 Mov Coy and delegate responsibilities to meet support demands in alignment with unit outputs and priorities.- Expert Planner and Policy Shaper: As a key stakeholder and capability owner of three of the NZDF's major enabling functions (Movement Control, Aerial Delivery, and Terminal Operations), my team and I support all major NZDF domestic and overseas movements as well as the implementation of new Movement, Aerial Delivery, and Terminal Operation policies within the Army and wider NZDF.- Insightful Guidance: I proactively advise on movement matters impacting the operational capability of 1 (NZ) Bde, Army, and the broader NZDF, with a focus on optimizing the efficiency and capability of the MOVOP trade.- People Empowerment: With a total of 65 civilian, soldier, and officer personnel, I serve as the Reporting Officer and/or Reviewing Officer for all periodic reports, supporting growth and advocating promotions based on merit.- Upholding Discipline: I embody the NZ Army Ethos and Values, ensuring all members of 5 Mov Coy align with these principles, fostering aa positive and productive team culture.- Financial Stewardship: Authorized to approve expenditures up to $25K per transaction, I manage our budget efficiently, approving payments for received goods and services. Show less The Chairperson of New Zealand Army Football is responsible for the effective governance, policy making and strategic decision making for all clubs, players, officials and activities associated with NZ Army Football. As chairperson, I regularly engage with external stakeholders to win resources and opportunities for their members to compete against other nations and services whilst also championing their initiatives to drive positive change. I am also responsible for creating and communicating a coherent strategy for NZ Army football that aligns with the higher New Zealand Defence Force objectives and enhances the NZ Army culture of inclusivity, diversity and high performance. Show less As the Executive Officer of 2nd Combat Service Support Battalion, I play a pivotal role in supporting the Commanding Officer (CO) and ensuring operational effectiveness of New Zealand's largest logistics battalion.My roles and responsibilities in detail include:- Command: understudy the Commanding Officer and assume command of the 300+ person battalion during their absences, ensuring continuity and smooth operations.- Strategic Guidance: provide day-to-day oversight of routine operational tasks and provide advice and direction to 4 major sub-units. Additionally, I am the principal Staff Officer for HQ 2 CSS Bn, and lead all strategic planning for the battalion.- People Management: I meticulously report on all personnel under my command, actively participating in unit, Formation, and Corps promotion and Advisory Boards. Performance Appraisals for all civilian personnel in the headquarters are also my responsibility.- Training Excellence: Supporting individual CSS training to meet trade requirements, I ensure operational standards and safety are upheld within 2 CSS Bn.- Logistics Oversight: I closely monitor, report on and resolve unit equipment and maintenance deficiencies, ensuring our unit remains well-equipped and our infrastructure remains current and serviceable.- Policy Implementation: My duties involve developing, implementing, and evaluating unit policies and directives, ensuring compliance with unit, Army, and NZDF policies.- Operational Readiness: I complete essential Operational Preparedness Report System (OPRES) reporting for 2 CSS Bn, and ensure our force elements are fully prepared for operations.- Community: I serve as the Chairperson for 2 CSS Bn Non-Public Fund Social Committee and Unit Public Relations Officer, whilst actively engaging with our local community.- Financial Management: With financial delegations of up to $50K per event, I handle approved budgets responsibly. Show less

  • Officer Commanding 5th Movements Company - Major

    Feb 2023 - now

  • Chairperson - New Zealand Army Football - Major

    Apr 2021 - now

  • Executive Officer - Major

    Feb 2023 - Feb 2024