From Combat Boots To Business Suits

This week’s episode explores the theme of 'Great Expectations' with Chris Watson, who rose through the ranks to become a highly respected RSM in The Rifles. Leaving a hierarchical organisation like the Army for the corporate world brings its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to managing expectations during the job search and resettlement process. In this episode with Jane Burns, Chris shares his journey and lessons learned along the way.

Landing that first civilian role is always a huge resettlement milestone. However, your first job is rarely going to be your last. This week's guest, Christian Jetuah, delivers a masterclass in grasping opportunities when they are presented to you, and being unafraid to move-on in order to carve a civilian career path that is right for you. 

The finance sector remains one of the most popular with service leavers during resettlement. Many banks offer recruitment schemes specifically for ex-military candidates, as well as putting time and resources into building healthy armed forces networks. This week, Ken Neilson talks about his journey within the finance sector and why he feels it has offered him a great work-life balance in his civilian life. 

Thinking about a post-military career in renewables? You’re not alone. The sector is growing fast, and veterans have the leadership, adaptability and problem-solving skills to thrive in it. Jane Burns sits down with Tom Ogilvy to discuss his journey from the Army to Head of Operational Transformation at RES.

Tracy Thomson has been hiring ex-military candidates for the best part of two decades and is a firm friend of the Officers' Association Scotland. We joined her in the stunning Castle Room at Standard Life House to gain an invaluable inside-perspective on the hiring process, as well as gather expert advice spanning from sending in that initial application to handling salary negotiations like a pro. 

George Mackey brings us right back to resettlement basics with his fool-proof approach to kick-starting your civilian job search. He has packaged both his personal experiences and valuable lessons learned into 7 simple steps, entitled: O.N.W.A.R.D.S

Your host, Jane Burns, gives a sneak preview of everything we have in store for you in this pilot season of 'From Combat Boots To Business Suits', the podcast brought to you by the Officers' Association Scotland.    Officers' Association Scotland - Home