Q - Tell us about your experience transitioning from the Armed Forces to Amey.
After 18 years in the military, including 8 years with the Royal Marine Commandos and 8 with the Special Boat Service, I decided to pursue a civilian career. After meeting senior executives at Amey, it resulted in me joining their Elite Armed Forces Veteran’s programme. Launched earlier this year, this provides senior military personnel tailored opportunities to leverage their leadership experience while acquiring new skills for a rewarding career at Amey. The programme ensured a smooth transition to my role as Business Development Director, with strong support and guidance from day one.
Q - Tell us about your current role and how the transferable skills learnt military service have helped you excel at Amey.
As a Business Development Director at Amey, I drive growth, foster collaboration, and establish industry leadership. My Special Forces background provides mission-driven focus, effective communication, meticulous planning, and leadership under pressure. These skills help me build strong client relationships, navigate complex negotiations, and lead teams effectively. Amey's culture of innovation and excellence aligns with my military values, enabling me to thrive and deliver exceptional results.
Q - Tell us more about Amey’s initiatives for Service personnel, their families, and veterans.
Amey exemplifies robust support for Service personnel, veterans, and their families through initiatives like the Elite Armed Forces Veteran’s programme and recently launched Service to Success programme. They actively recruit from the military community, with over 170 individuals hired in the past three years alone.
Partnering with organisations like RBLI has secured employment for five veterans annually since 2008, generating over £4.3 million in social value.
These efforts, alongside a relaunched Armed Forces Network, highlight Amey's commitment to integrating military talent and supporting their successful transition to civilian careers.
Q - Is there anything else the private sector could do to ensure Service personnel can transition into employment?
The private sector can further support Service personnel by increasing awareness of veterans' skills, offering tailored training and certification programs, and providing mentorship. Fostering an inclusive culture that values veterans' strengths, as they do at Amey, is essential. Structured transition programmes, like Amey's Elite Armed Forces Veteran’s Programme, exemplify successful integration and career advancement for veterans.
Q - Can you share a specific challenge you faced during your transition from the Armed Forces to a civilian role, and how you overcame it?
During my transition from the Armed Forces, I faced uncertainty, anxiety, and frustration, especially regarding family responsibilities and career direction. I engaged in extensive networking and self-discovery. Adapting from military to corporate communication was challenging, so I sought feedback, took professional courses, and utilised mentorship from Amey's Elite Armed Forces Veteran’s Programme. With perseverance and family support, I overcame these hurdles, eventually finding a fulfilling role at Amey.
Q - How did your time in the Armed Forces shape your leadership style, and how do you apply that at Amey?
My military service shaped my leadership style to focus on leveraging team members' unique skills. At Amey, I prioritise active listening, valuing insights, and incorporating contributions into strategic decisions. I promote mentorship, skill development, and professional growth to cultivate a motivated workforce. My experience helps me navigate dynamic situations, make informed decisions under pressure, and inspire teams. This inclusive approach fosters collaboration, mutual respect, and drives success in meeting client expectations and project goals.
Q - How does Amey’s culture and values align with those of the Armed Forces, and how has that impacted your work?
Amey’s culture of Looking After Each Other, Bringing Our Best and We Win as One mirrors the core values of the Armed Forces, easing my transition and shaping my work approach. Both organisations emphasise strategic thinking, problem-solving, and continuous improvement, allowing me to leverage my military skills effectively. Amey's commitment to safety, collaboration, and optimal outcomes ensures open communication, mutual respect, and empowers team members to contribute meaningfully, driving success in meeting client expectations.
Q - In what ways do you think veterans bring unique perspectives and skills to the engineering sector?
Veterans bring unique perspectives and skills to the engineering sector, including strategic planning, risk management, and leadership under pressure. Their ability to stay composed and make informed decisions in high-stress situations enhances problem-solving and innovation. Discipline, teamwork, and adaptability foster a culture of excellence and collaboration, driving project success and continuous improvement. These qualities help advance technological solutions and achieve exceptional outcomes.
Q - How important is it for companies like Amey to have veterans in leadership positions, and why?
Veterans contribute extensive experience in leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving honed through their military service. Their capacity to navigate intricate challenges, manage diverse teams, and propel organisational objectives enhances the resilience and effectiveness of the company.
Those in leadership roles embody Amey's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and harnessing the unique skills of all employees. Their leadership serves as inspiration for teams to strive for excellence, fosters a culture of innovation, and strengthens Amey's reputation as a preferred employer for veterans and the wider community.