A Day in the Life of a Navy Reservist Petty Officer - Maritime Trade Operations

I am a Navy reservist...

I am a Petty Officer in Maritime Trade Operations, which is a reservist-specific job, there isn't a regular equivalent. We work closely with the Merchant Navy and shipping industry and deconflict areas of interest. We advise command on how to keep sea lines of communication open for trade and logistics, we research patterns of life in the area of operations and will work closely with other specialisations which could affect shipping, for example Mine Warfare. Our main role for a number of years was anti-piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean; tracking shipping, briefing master mariners and advising on safety in the area. I spent 6 months in Dubai undertaking this role when the threat of piracy was at its height.

My day job is:

Resource Allocation Co-Ordinator

A normal day for me would be:

I am responsible for ensuring industrial moves are assigned correctly, providing reports on the industrial workforce, forecasting availability of workers and keeping appropriate records. I line manage a business admin apprentice so assist them with their NVQ work and provide guidance on all admin matters.

I was awarded the Volunteer Reserve Service Medal (VRSM) in recognition of long and efficient service of proved capacity in the Reserve Forces.

Working for Babcock really helps me combine my day job and my role within the Maritime Reserves. It makes such a difference having a supportive employer who facilitates the time needed for training and allows special leave to undertake it.

I was very honoured to be the Babcock Representative at a Reserves Reception at The House of Commons with the Secretary of State for Defence and The First Sea Lord.