CUSTOMS INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 2008

13 October – 14 November 2008

INTRODUCTION

The Australian Customs Service Customs International Executive Management Program (CIEMP) is an academic program of approximately five weeks duration for officers of overseas customs administrations.  The program incorporates a management curriculum component and a professional fellowship component during which participants will undertake a personal development project.

An integral element of CIEMP is the study of management theory in a customs context. Academics will deliver the management theory topics and the program will be enhanced by the application of management theory to a customs environment.  Customs experts in particular fields will conduct interactive sessions providing participants with the opportunity to share experiences, discuss common issues and examine best practice in customs management relating to the particular topic.

THE CURRICULUM

Management topics covered in the program are expected to include:

q       strategic and operational management;

q       project management;

q       people management;

q       change management;

q       risk management;

q       service delivery and quality management;

q       legislation management;

q       compliance management;

q       change management and leadership;

q       ethics and integrity; and

q       communication including presentation skills.

TRAINING METHODOLOGY

The mode of delivery will be participatory, including lecture sessions and interactive learning.  Group discussions and workshops will involve case studies, exercises and simulations.  A mix of theoretical discussions and practical applications will be incorporated. The management topics will be delivered by recognised experts in particular fields and Customs experts will present sessions on the practical application of management theory in a customs context.

The program will also incorporate field visits, leadership and team‑building exercises.

Each participant will also undertake work on a personal development plan. This will involve setting objectives prior to course commencement. Assistance with plan development will be provided throughout the course. Further, a mentoring program will be established with a Customs mentor assigned to each participant.  The mentor will provide support for the participant during their stay in Australia.

THE PARTICIPANTS

CIEMP is aimed at providing senior customs officials with the knowledge and skills to be effective customs managers. Participants should have the potential to advance to a position of influence in their customs organisation.  Suitable candidates will be those seeking personal development in order to improve their ability to benefit their organisations.

Participants selected for the program should have the capacity to undertake an academic program. While there is no educational prerequisite, candidates who have completed a first degree will be favourably considered. Extensive customs experience at a high level will be considered in lieu of qualifications. A high level of English language skills will be essential for selection to the program. As much of the course will be conducted through group discussions and workshops, participants will need to be able to take part in English language based discussions.  Participants will need to understand, speak and write English to a high level of competency. 

Participants selected for the program will be customs officers of high integrity and have the endorsement of their Customs administration. 

Potential candidates should be aware that CIEMP is an academic program rather than a customs study tour. Participants will have the opportunity to explore a customs issue of interest to them through the professional fellowship project.  Unfortunately, due to the nature of the program it is not appropriate for participants to be accompanied by spouses, partners or other family members.

THE SELECTION PROCESS

Nominations should be submitted on the nomination form provided. All nominations must be endorsed by the head of the customs organisation or his/her official delegate.  The selection process will be undertaken in early September, and nominations received after the closing date of 5 September 2008 will not be considered.

Participants will be selected on the basis of their ability to undertake an academic program, their potential to benefit their organisation and achievement in their customs career.  Competency in English will also be considered.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Successful candidates will require a valid passport and will also be individually responsible for addressing all Australian visa application requirements well before travelling to attend CIEMP 2008. All inquiries about CIEMP 2008 should be directed to the CIEMP Office at the following address:

            Ms Carlita Whittaker

CIEMP Coordinator

International Programs Section

            Australian Customs Service

            5 Constitution Avenue

            CANBERRA  ACT  2601

            AUSTRALIA

            Telephone:                    +61-2-6275-6657

            Facsimile:                     +61-2-6275-6819

            E-mail:              CIEMP@customs.gov.au