Businesses across the North of England supported a Veteran Recruitment Roadshow, with over 40 businesses of all sizes from across the region attending to learn more about how they could tap into the veteran talent pool.

The event was hosted by Deloitte, The Drive Project and veterans’ charity the Officers’ Association at Virgin Money in Newcastle.

Whilst 71% of medium and large organisations say they would consider employing veterans, only 39% would consider employing someone with no industry experience.

Richard Jones, a former RAF officer, is travelling around the world with his family. He shares what lessons he has learnt on the way.

I scarcely believe it is almost six months since I wrote about leaving my job to travel for a year with my family. I almost feel like a different person now, having travelled from New Zealand across South East Asia. I have experienced many new cultures, and going on this adventure with my wife and children has been incredible.

Lisa Jones, an OA Career Consultant and former Army officer, shared her top career searching tips with BFBS Radio.

Give yourself time, because it can often take six to eight months to find the right job. If you are a Service leaver, allocate time away from your current role. Create a schedule so you work smartly and maximise your time developing opportunities. Be open with your family about needing to spend an evening or weekend focussing on your job seeking.

The former England rugby star and RAF officer will share his career journey and insight with serving and former officers.

Rory Underwood MBE is a legendary international rugby player, scoring a record 49 tries for England, winning six caps for the British Lions and playing at Leicester Tigers for 14 years. He also spent 18 years as a pilot in the RAF, spending more than 3,000 hours flying Tornados, Canberras, Hawks and Domines. Rory is now an experienced facilitator, psychometric profiler and performance coach.

Increasingly more organisations are benefitting from recruiting veterans. Use the checklist below to see where your organisation fits on its military engagement journey.
How many of the criteria below does your organisation meet?

Starting
– The business understands the commercial and social case for hiring veterans.
– There is a dedicated individual to manage this work, in addition to their other responsibilities.
– The organisation supports individuals in their fundraising efforts for military charities.