Within my role I am ultimately responsible for thousands of people, each of whom have their own stories and past which have defined who they are, and what they do. As part of a wider team I have recently been working on preparation for an event that we (Churchill Group) are sponsoring for TwinFM (Ex-Military – A Journey Into FM), and today I had the privilege of interviewing and talking to three colleagues, to discuss their story, as veterans.

Personally, and through my own previous volunteering with the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association, I have seen a glimpse into the life of military service, and have many connections who either are, or have served within the military; but this experience was different. Firstly, as individuals’, these people have served decades within the armed forces, and combined their timeframe of service far surpasses my whole life-time. Secondly (and I am proud to say I have always been an advocate of recruiting ex-military personnel), our main focus of discussion wasn’t on the fantastic transferable skills they hold (to which leadership, communication, punctuality and self-discipline are few of the very many), we focused on something I have to admit, I have not given enough thought to before, the actual transition into civilian life.

Listening to their stories and thoughts, their raw emotion on going through this process was indescribable. To those of you in the room – thank you for your openness, thank you for your honesty, thank you for being a colleague and part of our business, and thank you for your service. It was an honour to have had this discussion with you.

What hit me the most, was that the running theme around transition was fear. Fear of not knowing what was next, fear on how you will support your family, fear of being lost and alone and even fear of not knowing how to put together a CV which will suit and translate to the civilian world.

This is simply unacceptable. This should not be the case. As individuals’, businesses, and an industry which I truly believe is a perfect fit for veterans; we need to do more; so let’s shout about it!

As a business we are part of the armed forces covenant, which is a promise to ensure that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly; and we are making many commitments to drive forward support for veterans and make transition easier.

Personally, I want to make my own commitment. If you are leaving, or have just left military service and need support in CV/Cover Letter proof-reading or interview preparation, just let me know, and if for whatever reason I am unable to help, I will put you in touch with someone who can.

If you are about to enter, or are in transition, please register for and attend the TwinFM Ex-Military – Journey into FM event on the 10^th March in Manchester. Link here.