A recent report commissioned by Reed in Partnership and produced by labour market intelligence experts, Lightcast, has revealed the valuable contribution that UK Armed Forces Service leavers can make to the country’s economic future.
Titled ‘Skills in Transition: How UK Service leavers can power the nation’s economic future’, the report highlights the unique blend of skills possessed by Service leavers that are currently in high demand across a variety of industries. These skills not only meet the needs of the current economy, but are also crucial for its future growth.
Donna Murrell, Managing Director at Reed in Partnership, emphasised the readiness of Service leavers for the job market, stating, “Service leavers are more than ready for today’s jobs – they are equipped for the careers of tomorrow.” She further noted that this report showcases how the skills acquired in the military align with the most sought-after competencies by UK employers, providing a strategic advantage for both employers and the economy. Murrell also expressed the aim of opening up a wide range of career opportunities for Service leavers by demonstrating the match between military-acquired skills and employer demand.
Key findings of the report include the alignment of military-trained skills such as leadership, problem solving, and resilience with the top competencies sought by UK employers. Additionally, the expertise of Service leavers directly supports the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, particularly in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, and life sciences. The report also highlights the potential for Service leavers to address regional labour shortages and support local growth in all UK nations and regions. With targeted upskilling, Service leavers can also progress into leadership and specialist roles, contributing to long-term workforce resilience.
The report also acknowledges the personalised support provided by the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), which is delivered by Reed in Partnership on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. The Forces Employment Charity, which has been engaged in the delivery of the CTP since 1998, works with employers to source relevant job opportunities for Service leavers and provides specialised support for Early Service leavers and Personnel on Recovery Duties.
Alistair Halliday, Chief Executive of the Forces Employment Charity, emphasised the importance of this research in complementing the expert, tailored support provided through the CTP, calling it a vital resource for employers, policymakers, and Service leavers themselves.
Reed in Partnership encourages employers to engage with the CTP and explore initiatives like Op ASCEND, the Armed Forces Covenant, and the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme to tap into this valuable talent pool. To read the full report or learn more about connecting with Service leaver talent, visit: Skills in Transition: How UK Service leavers can power the nation’s economic future | Reed in Partnership.
Reed in Partnership is a trusted provider of public services, working with governments and local authorities to provide solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing society. Since 1998, they have been entrusted with contracts for major programmes in various sectors. They have been delivering the Ministry of Defence’s Career Transition Partnership since October 2024.
The Career Transition Partnership is the official resettlement service for the Armed Forces, providing comprehensive personal support for Service leavers transitioning into civilian life. With over 25 years of experience, the CTP has supported more than 310,000 personnel. They offer a range of support, including personal advice, workshops, training courses, and employment fairs, to help Service leavers approach their resettlement with confidence and find suitable opportunities in the workforce, education, or retirement.
Lightcast, the global leader in labour market intelligence, provided the data and analysis for the report. With the world’s most comprehensive database spanning over 2.5 billion job postings, 400 million career profiles, and 100+ government sources, Lightcast delivers unparalleled insight into skills, jobs, companies, professional profiles, and workforce trends across 150+ countries. Their advanced AI and expert guidance transform complex data into clear, actionable intelligence. They have offices in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, New Zealand, and India. Learn more at lightcast.io.
