From Royal Artillery Officer to Director Support Chief of Staff

How long did you serve (what force), and when did you join DE&S? 

I was a Royal Artillery Officer (RA) and served for 33 years before joining DE&S in Sep 19. 

I started in DE&S as a Change Manager in Delivery Frameworks, Programmes Directorate. I then moved across in April 20 to be Director Support Chief of Staff. I was due to assume the new post at the end of Apr but was fast tracked due to COVID. 

Although an RA Officer I also served in Military Intelligence in the Defence HUMINT Unit, an Armoured Divisional Headquarters and other Staff Officer appointments. I have served and lived in Norway, Belgium, Germany Cyprus and UK and operational tours in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. I was the youngest Warrant Officer in the Army and fast tracked to be Commissioned. During my Army career I was awarded an MBE and BEM plus two commendations. 

Just finishing off MBA at Northampton University, completed Strategic Management L7, Facilities Management L4, NEBOSH, Military All Arms Officers’ Logistics Course. 

Limited – Whilst in the Army I applied to serve in the Army in DE&S but was informed I needed to be a Brigade Deputy Chief of Staff instead as it would enhance my career better! 

There is an initial learning curve, but I had 23 civil servants working for me in my last military post, so I was well versed on the Civil service practices. As to working in AW it is largely enjoyable. After the learning curve – the abbreviations and terminology adopted in DE&S do not largely exist in wider Defence, I realised the impact DE&S has in all areas of Defence. I was asked by COMs Land and Air on my thoughts and I stated AW is a place and environment that has grown on me, the longer I am here. 

Daily - I was approached by two civil servants to mentor them, which I do. I believe I bring a wealth of Defence knowledge and focus and am flexible to adapt (I am told) and do a wide range of tasks making a difference. I was also approached to sit on various recruiting campaigns from L1-4. 

The Defence Procurement process and the fact there are some talent people in DE&S that are an essential component in making Defence work. 

Delivered the Pilot and Tranche 2 of Delivery Framework to all Domains and set the scene for making process more stream lined. In my new post I am reviewing all process and practices and will improve productivity in time. 

There is a huge job market place across the country so do you research well and use your Resettlement time wisely. If you are seeking employment in DE&S, research the roles and appointments well and always be prepared.