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Believe in people Unlocking veteran talent: supporting successful civilian careers

Helping veterans thrive beyond military service

Veterans bring valuable leadership, resilience and operational expertise to the workforce. Yet many face challenges when transitioning from military service to civilian careers, often struggling to find roles that fully utilise their skills and experience.

At Serco, we're committed to helping Armed Forces veterans build meaningful civilian careers. As a long-standing partner to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), we recognise the value veterans bring to organisations, communities and the wider economy.

Hero image: UK MOD © Crown copyright 2024

Pics shows hands of Army personnel in uniform holding a map and compass

Veterans are under-employed despite valuable skills

Leaving the Armed Forces is more than just changing jobs. Former service personnel often need to adapt to new workplace cultures, navigate unfamiliar recruitment processes and translate military experience into civilian career opportunities.

Despite their highly transferable skills, many veterans find themselves underemployed or facing barriers to career progression.

Creating clear pathways into employment and providing ongoing support can help veterans make a successful transition from military service to civilian life.
 

Supporting veterans at Serco

Veterans are a vital part of our business and currently make up around a third of our global defence workforce.

We support veterans through:
•    Career opportunities across our defence operations
•    Training and professional development
•    Mentoring and career progression support
•    An inclusive culture that values military experience

Our focus is not just on helping veterans find a job, but on helping them build long-term meaningful careers.
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"From the start, Serco saw something in me and gave me the chance to build a second career. That's made all the difference. Over the years, I've been supported with training, mentoring and development opportunities that have helped me grow and progress."

Kez
Director of Health, Safety, Environment and Quality, Serco.

Forrmer soldier, Kez, on tour in the Gulf

A veteran success story: Kez's journey

Kez served 22 years in the Army, rising to Warrant Officer, before joining Serco in 2008 as a Health and Safety Adviser - a role that built directly on his military background. Nearly two decades later, he leads Serco's Health, Safety, Environment and Quality function.

His advice to service leavers is prepare early, stay flexible, expect setbacks - and recognise that the skills built in service have real civilian value once matched with the right employer.

Kez’s journey demonstrates how veterans can successfully transfer military skills into civilian leadership roles when given the right opportunities and support.

Image: Kez on tour in the Gulf.

 

The impact of investing in veterans

Veterans bring strong leadership, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving skills that benefit organisations across every sector.

Supporting veterans into civilian careers delivers positive outcomes for individuals, employers and society. It also helps organisations like Serco access experienced talent while ensuring the skills developed through military service continue to create value long after active duty has ended.

At Serco, we're proud to support veterans as they build successful careers beyond military service.
 
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Restart job coach pointing to computer screen, sat with a participant

Making a difference

Learn more about how we're supporting people to maximise their potential

Find out more about Believe in People

Visit our Military Leavers and Reservists careers page