Resettlement Success: From RAF Intelligence to Tech Solutions at KPMG
Category: Success Stories
Publish date: 01/05/2019
Rich left the military as a Sergeant in late 2015, having served twelve years in RAF Intelligence. After completing his resettlement, which included attending the CTP Transition Workshop, he joined KPMG as a management consultant in their Operations Transformation practice, helping government institutions with their organisational challenges. He successfully promoted to Manager and is now part of the Solutions & Digital team, experts focused on solving complex client issues through the use of technology.
“Through resettlement, I had a feeling that there was a glass ceiling for NCOs moving into civilian employment but I really wanted to stretch myself and aim high for my first role. I knew I was capable of meeting the challenge of working at one of the Big 4. I could really see myself being able to carve out my own path with a new career at KPMG, fully supported by the ex-military network, Forces in the Firm.
I soon saw how the skills I developed in the RAF would be of benefit in my new role as a consultant. I progressed through lots of different intelligence roles in the military and having the ability to adapt quickly is invaluable when moving at short notice between clients who have diverse structures, stakeholders and problems.
My role as an Intelligence Analyst gave me considerable experience briefing senior leadership and communicating in a way that is relevant to the audience. Here at KPMG we have a diverse range of clients from both the public and private sector; it’s so important to tailor your style to fit the culture of the organisation you’re working with. I’ve also carried across the ability to prioritise and manage an ever-changing and expanding task list, which is critical when managing the expectations of my clients!”
Rich feels strongly that NCOs should not be pigeon-holed or limited by the type of civilian roles available and that professional competence and capability is the most important factor, not previous rank. So what advice does he have for NCOs going through resettlement?
“You shouldn’t feel like any industry or role is out of reach! Don’t be shy about selling yourself and the skills you’ve developed through your time in the military. Reflect honestly on your achievements and celebrate them.”
For more information on KPMG’s Military Leavers Programme search ‘KPMG’ or N241196 on RightJob www.ctp.org.uk