What type of job are you looking for?
I am employment as a Security/Close Personal Protection/Private Security Detail operator within the Middle East.
What nationality are you?
Australian
What languages do you speak (and at what level)?
English - Fluent Croatian/Serbian - Intermediate Arabic - Currently studying
What country or area are you looking to work in and why?
I am looking for work in the MIddle east and/or Africa. These are areas where I can best utilize my skills efficiently and develop new skills quickly. I have a great interest in the MIddle East and look forward to building a successful career in the area.
What countries have you worked in?
At present, I have only ever worked within Australia, even though most of my training was conducted in the United States. I am looking at developing myself further by gaining the experience of working internationally.
What countries do you have a visa to work in?
I am legally able to work in Australia, however I am willing to gain the appropriate visas when necessary.
What field do you currently work in?
I work as a Protective Security Adviser for the Government.
What fields have you worked in before?
I have worked in the following fields: Close Personal Protection Surveillance and Counter-Surveillance Risk Management Security Officer and Manager Rapid Response Unit Covert Loss Prevention Finance Government
What qualifications do you hold?
2009 Bachelors Degree Security, Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism / Major in Middle Eastern Studies (Including Arabic) January 2009 onwards o Open Universities Australia and the Australian National University Introduction to Protective Security, Attorney Generals Department (PSCC) o 2nd and 3rd March, 2009 Safe Use of X-Ray Devices, Australian Nuclear Science & Technology Organisation o 22nd May 2009
2008 Exceeding Customer Expectations, Canberra Institute of Technology o June 2008 Training provided onsite at ComSuper Administrative Law, Australian Government Solicitor o October 2008 Training provided onsite at ComSuper.
2007 PS146 for the Superannuation Industry o November 2007 Certificate No. PS2191 (Tier 1 ASIC Accredited Course) FNSASIC503UA Provide Advice in Superannuation o November 2007 Certificate No. PS2191 Senior First Aid (Level 2), Allens Training - A.C.T. o Certificate No. 59090 - Expires: 19/09/2010
2005 Certificate IV Security and Risk Management (Australian Forensic Services) o Australian Capital Territory, Australia Advanced/High Profile Protective Services Course (HSS International) o Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. Security Transport Procedures, Safety Training Course (HSS International) o Camp Pendleton, United States Marine Corps Base, California U.S.A. Tactical Rifle, Live Fire Training Course (HSS International) o Azusa, California U.S.A. Tactical Pistol, Advanced Training Course (HSS International) o Azusa, California U.S.A. Tactical Casualty Management (HSS International) o Huntington Beach, California U.S.A. Close Quarters Battle (HSS International) o Azusa, California U.S.A. U.S. Marshals Protective Services Course o U.S. Marshals Training Academy, San Diego, California USA MSA Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (HSS International) o Australian Capital Territory, Australia Protective Services Course (S.O.G. Australia) o New South Wales, Australia ASP Tactical Baton Certification Course (S.O.G. Australia) o New South Wales, Australia
2004 Certificate II Security Operations, A.C.T. o A.C.T. Security Lic. No. 17708559 - Classes: A, B, C, D
Which do you consider more valuable? Formal education or skills and why?
Both are valuable in different ways. Formal education is excellent in gaining a strong knowledge base in subject matter and in some cases, practical experience. Skills are quite valuable if learned properly and applied effectively. I have a combination of both as well as a demonstrated ability to acquire new skills and knowledge quickly and then apply them effectively and efficiently.
Describe the benefits of working with others
There are many benefits of working with others. My experience has taught me that I am able to utilize my team members strengths as well as my own to accomplish goals effectively ie. instead of only having one way to complete a task, we have several ways which we are able to do the same thing. This way we can use one or combine different ideas to determine and utilize the best solution. I can also learn new skills from my team members as well as passing on my own knowledge and skills to them. This way we can all broaden our knowledge and/or skill set.
Describe the benefits of working alone
The benefits of working alone are that I can test my skills as an individual and focus, whilst taking responsibility for my actions. I have been able to function effectively without supervision in any situation or environment in which I have operated so far.
What was your worst working experience?
Conducting surveillance operations on my own, well behind "enemy lines" without the possibility of assistance or support. It was uncomfortable as it was the first time I had done this sort of operation, however I learned new skills and developed professionally at the same time which was a massive plus. It developed my confidence even further.
What is the most important lesson you have learnt throughout your career?
Under no circumstances should some secrets be revealed. Instead, they must be taken to your grave with you.
What unique skills do you have?
My greatest asset is that I am very unassuming. I am very discreet and I hear and see everything without people noticing me. I am bale to learn very quickly and adapt to rapidly changing environments.
What would you consider as your 'dream job'?
My dream job at present would be to work as a CPP/PSD operator in the Middle East or Africa, with the future goal of becoming an instructor in the same field.
What are the most interesting aspects of your field?
Every day is different with new mental and physical challenges in a constantly changing global environment. I enjoy pushing myself and testing myself all the time and this line of work definitely offers that. I also enjoy the fact that it requires a mentally mature, responsible and healthy person to operate effectively as well as being physically fit. I believe that maturity, integrity, intelligence, confidence and endurance are only a few of the personal traits required to be successful in my chosen field and I demonstrate these qualities. There is always something new happening in the industry or in the world and that's what makes this field so enjoyable and such a challenge to work within. It's not for everyone.
What are the least interesting aspects of your field?
Boredom is usually the big killer of people working within the Personal Protection industry. It can cause harm to those who aren't driven to stay sharp and focussed under the most testing of circumstances.
What else can you offer a prospective employer?
I have a vast variety of experience and professional skills. I have demonstrated maturity, responsibility, integrity, loyalty amongst other key traits throughout my career and I continue to do so. I believe that I am an asset to any employer and I would quickly adapt and fit into any team, or company, as a CPP/PSD operator.
How can potential employers contact you?
Email: mdragila@yahoo.com
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