I joined the army as a Private soldier in 1988 and trained as a Control Equipment Technician. My first assignment was to Germany with 39 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Royal Artillery Regiment. On arrival, I immediately deployed on operations to Iraq for the first Gulf War.
On my return, I attended junior leadership training and was subsequently promoted to Corporal.
Remaining Germany-based, my next assignment was to the Royal Dragoon Guards (RDG) where I was charged with the maintenance and repair of Challenger Tanks. I enjoyed several training exercises in austere environments across Germany and Canada. I attended senior leadership training and was promoted to Sergeant. My final assignment in Germany was with 26 Armoured Engineer Regiment, where I deployed on training exercises in France, Poland and Canada.
In 1999 I was assigned back to the UK for the first time since joining the army. I arrived at Topcliffe, North Yorkshire to join 40 Regiment, Royal Artillery as the Workshop Quality Systems Manager. Shortly after my arrival, I was deployed for 6 months on covert operations to Northern Ireland at short notice.
On my return, seeking a career change, I transferred into an HR and finance role and completed accountancy and HR training. I was subsequently assigned to 1st Battalion Royal Welsh Regiment followed by 1st Battalion the Royal Anglian Regiment where I was deployed on Operations to Iraq. On my return, following further leadership training, I was promoted to Warrant Officer and assigned to command the soldiers of my Corps Recruiting Team. I went on to serve at the Royal School of Military Engineering before being assigned to a Brigade Headquarters where I was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
In 2015 I was commissioned, promoted to Captain and assigned as Detachment Commander to 4th Armoured Medical Regiment. During this period, I was seconded to CAPITA to assist with Army Recruitment Operations. I then went on to lead a team of 22 HR generalists and accountants at 1 Mercian Regiment before my final assignment as a Staff Officer at the Defence College of Logistics, Policing and Administration.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my service and have been shaped by the experiences and challenges that I have faced throughout my career. My service has enabled the development of robust command, leadership and management skills and experience, backed by knowledge and understanding of planning, analysis and risk - attributes you will find in abundance in most veterans.
I decided to leave the army after a full and rewarding 33 years, looking for a more geographically stable new career. I initially adopted a scattergun approach to my job search and hoped something would stick. Frustrated with multiple failed applications where I spent weeks researching companies and organisations to give me a credible advantage over other candidates, I finally decided that I should concentrate my efforts in the public sector. I was attracted by the opportunity to continue to act as a public servant and support my community.
Over time, I developed my application strategy and focussed my attention on NHS organisations that understood and appreciated the transferable skills on offer from service leavers. I was fortunate to land with SCW in an Organisational Development Manager role.
It is still very early days, but initial thoughts are very encouraging. I am thoroughly enjoying life with SCW. I thrive on the understanding that I have been able to add value and support the team to achieve objectives immediately on arrival. I have already moved up into a People Business Partner role and I can see clear opportunities for continued career progression. I recognise and applaud the significant focus on the development of people within the organisation.
Simon Foster, People Business Partner
If you're looking for a change of career and would like to talk to us,