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Join our ex-forces community and establish your second career

Discover your new direction with Expleo. Whether a veteran, reservist or cadet we are committed to helping you develop a rewarding new career path.​

We champion hiring ex-forces personnel, actively recruiting talent from the armed forces community in recognition of the valuable experience, skills and talent. Each year, we welcome many taking their first steps into the corporate world with us.​  ​

Expleo offers the opportunity for service leavers and veterans to take the skills they have learned from the armed forces to build a new career and develop even further.​​

Featured Jobs​

Read some of the stories from our ex-forces veterans who work at Expleo.

Steve

GLOBAL ACCOUNT MANAGER

"We are a global organisation and there are plenty of opportunities to develop and to grow"

Discover more

Andrew

Resource and Capability Manager

"I went from spending my time in the RAF walking the flight line to leading teams of engineers in Expleo helping develop the next generation of aircraft"

Discover more

David

Senior Cybersecurity Engineer

"In my team there are quite a few ex-forces colleagues, and that feels very familiar, like a continuation of my military career"

Discover more

Robert

BUSINESS MANAGER

"Expleo gave me the freedom to use my transferable skills that I gained in the Air Force"

Discover more

Ron

GLOBAL ACCOUNT MANAGER

"Expleo has given me the ability to make an impact on the world around me and my colleagues"

Discover more

Steven

HEAD OF CYBER

"From the Armed Forces to a civilian role at Expleo was a significant shift, but the company and its culture greatly facilitated this transition"

Discover more
Philip, ex soldier

Philip

Systems Engineering Manager

"There’s lots of ex-veterans here and they’ll help put you at ease"

Discover more

Ex-Forces Community​

We offer structured career development for all employees, with guidance to help you maximise personal and professional growth. Engineers can benefit from a career path mapped against the Engineering Council UK-SPEC  to guide you through to CEng status. You will be assigned an Expleo mentor from the ex-forces community to provide support and guidance throughout your career.​

Ex-forces personnel are represented throughout Expleo’s organisation – from recruitment teams to management, read some of their stories. Our vibrant community members share news and provide peer support to each other, wherever they are in the country. The group is a central source of information to advise the management team on the wider ex-forces community, particularly when engaging with customers in the defence business.​

logo armed forces

Armed Forces Covenant​

Expleo signed the Armed Forces Covenant, making clear its intention to provide even greater support to the forces by improving its ways of working and policies over time – for candidates and employees.

We have committed to several actions as part of signing the covenant:

  • Recognising the value service leavers and veterans bring to the business​
  • Supporting reservists, military spouses/partners, cadets and cadet leaders through a flexible leave policy that enables training, deployment or support​
  • Recognising candidates’ military skills and qualifications in its recruitment and selection process​
  • Working with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) to support the employment of service leavers​
  • Promoting Armed Forces Day, Reserves Day, the Poppy Appeal and remembrance activities​
Read more about the armed forces covenant
logo armed forces

Armed Forces Covenant​

Expleo signed the Armed Forces Covenant, making clear its intention to provide even greater support to the forces by improving its ways of working and policies over time – for candidates and employees.

We have committed to several actions as part of signing the covenant:

  • Recognising the value service leavers and veterans bring to the business​
  • Supporting reservists, military spouses/partners, cadets and cadet leaders through a flexible leave policy that enables training, deployment or support​
  • Recognising candidates’ military skills and qualifications in its recruitment and selection process​
  • Working with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) to support the employment of service leavers​
  • Promoting Armed Forces Day, Reserves Day, the Poppy Appeal and remembrance activities​
Read more about the armed forces covenant

Ex-Forces Benefits

We understand the specific needs of military families and spouses, appreciating the additional flexibility and support required during a partner’s deployment​

Expleo offers 25 days of paid holiday per year plus bank holidays and additional time off for volunteering activities, training, and personal development. We can also provide extra support where needed – for example, sabbaticals can be granted if you are required to serve full time cover whilst your CO is on deployment. ​

Private health insurance
Life assurance and income protection  
Sabbatical leave
Charity donation matching through payroll giving scheme
Development and mobility opportunities – moving from department to department, client to client
Access to thousands of courses
Vibrant ex-forces community
Recruitment and Sales Referral schemes
Long service awards – extra leave and gifts 
Employee Assistance Program – including access to online GP and physical and mental health support services 
Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme   
Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme 
Employee representation and wellbeing groups
Family-friendly policies
Social activities​

What's new

Expleo News

Expleo joins UK Armed Forces Covenant and celebrates with signing at Preston

Group of employees

Expleo secures Bronze Award 

hands shaking

Expleo unlocks Silver Award in Defence Employer Recognition Scheme

Steve Lawton

Read other stories from our veterans

What is your name and your role at Expleo?

My name’s Steve Lawton, I’m a Global Account Manager. 

How long have you been working at Expleo? 

I joined in 2012, so just over 11 years.  

Where and how long did you serve in the Armed Forces?  

I was in the army for just over 23 years. I left the army as a Warrant Officer. I also spent time teaching since I was instructing the junior soldiers on how to maintain and repair the equipment. And for most of my career, I was a Radar Engineer, and my main job was to maintain the anti-aircraft systems.

military soldier and his jeep

Steve is in Uig on the Isle of Skye en route to the 1996 annual Rapier firing Camp in the Outer Hebrides

What skills and experiences did you gain during your service?

I have gained the skills of engaging with people, effectively communicating and leading and managing teams. This holds true regardless of my engineering background. I had additional education in the Forces and finished as a Warrant Officer.  

What challenges did you have after leaving the Armed Forces?

After leaving the Armed Forces, I asked myself several questions: We’ve got this house in an area that we think we would like to settle in. Will I get a job in that area? Can I still live there? Where am I going to work.” 

The army gives you two years at the end of your career for career transition back to the civilian life. I didn’t really feel that it helped me much in what I was looking for.  

In the last 6 to 8 months before I left the Armed Forces, I was going for interviews and applying for jobs. I applied for 39 jobs at the time, and I got only two interviews. And that’s when I started to think what am I doing wrong? What’s missing? Is there something on my CV that isn’t selling my skills and experience?  

Eventually I was offered a role as a Maintenance Manager at a company. Unfortunately, it wasn’t a very nice working environment, and it didn’t allow me to be creative, 12 months after I started the role, I was made redundant. 

At the end of November 2011, within a few days of being made redundant, there was a recruitment fair at the NEC in Birmingham. 

Two weeks after the chat at the recruitment fair I received a phone call from Expleo recruitment inviting me for an interview, I went but was also interviewing for other roles at the time. I was offered a role with Expleo and another company, so I had to decide which position to take. When weighing up the options, whilst the other company was closer to home, I said to my wife that Expleo just seems a nice environment to work. When I went for the interview and I walked through the office, everybody seemed happy and friendly and a few of them nodded and said hi. 

So, I ended up taking the job with Expleo. As the years went by, I got promoted to an Operations Lead position, then Operations Manager and then Head of Operations. And eventually ended up as the Account Manager where I am today. 

As soon as I came to Expleo, the goal was clear. Go ahead and make it happen.. These are the processes I have to follow but there was so much more autonomy to be myself and to try and develop. The opportunities are there. 

What skills do you use in your current role that you gained during your service? 

The key skill that I’ve gained is Leadership and Management. Expleo is nothing without people, and if we lead and manage people successfully, colleagues will enjoy the environment, and the people are what keep the business going, we do everything we can to reduce our attrition rates and make ourselves a great place to work. 

How do you feel Expleo allows you to use your expertise you gained during your service? 

 
I think the key aspect that I’ve taken from my time in the army to where I am today, is to treat people with respect and respect is felt at all levels here at Expleo. There’s no difference in talking to a young graduate who’s just starting their career to having a conversation with a member of the Senior Leadership team. 

How do you connect with other members of the Ex-Forces Community at Expleo?

 
One of our customers, has a charity dinner night every year and it is all about raising money for Forces charities. Expleo sponsors a table at the event, and we take people down there we support their forces charities. Additionally, when we signed the Armed Forces Covenant and received the Bronze Award, I was invited to go to Preston and be part of that, which was great. 

Which advice would you give to other members of the Ex-Forces Community who are planning to join Expleo?  

If you join Expleo, don’t be passive, be involved. We are a global organisation and I think people don’t realise that we are not just in the UK. There are plenty of opportunities to develop and to grow. You may join as an engineer today, but you may well move into other roles across the organisation, the opportunity for progression is there with Expleo. 

Read other stories from our veterans

Andrew Swingler

Read other stories from our veterans

What is your name and your role at Expleo?

I’m Andrew Swingler and I’m a Resource and Capability Manager.

How long have you been working at Expleo? 

I’ve been with Expleo since 2006, so that’s 17 years now. And prior to that I was in the Royal Air Force for 22 years.

Where and how long did you serve in the Armed Forces?  

I was an airframe and propulsion technician, which meant working on the aircraft directly on the flight line. All the mechanical aspects of the aircraft were always under my remit so the engines, the flying controls, hydraulic systems, fuel systems etc. I was an apprentice with the Royal Air Force, that was a three-year apprenticeship and after that I spent the majority of my career working on operational squadrons, so I worked on Tornado F3, Tornado GR4,  and then the last five years of my career, I was on the Operational Evaluation Unit. 

What skills and experiences did you gain during your service?

A lot of the time it was, we need to do this, and we need to do this now, how can we do it? This made me very adaptable, so lateral thinking was a skill that I learned. Also, at the time I was in the Air Force, it was quite unusual to be skilled as airframe and propulsion. It was only those of us who had done a full three-year apprenticeship that did that. In the first 10 – 15 years of my career, I was the only person on the squadron with those qualifications, so often I was the one who was sent to recover aircraft, because I could cover all the mechanical aspects.

My role tended to be as we call it a sweeper party. You send the aircraft to the air and then you follow it with the Hercules, and I’ve got radio talking to the pilots. If they have a problem, I help them decide whether they continue flight or must land. And then I follow with the Hercules and try and fix their aircraft for them. That was a big part of my job for a long time, and that taught me adaptability, quick decision making and thinking on your feet. In engineering terms, I know how an aircraft worked. I know what stops it working, so although I am not a designer, I do know the questions that the designers need to be asked.

What challenges did you have after leaving the Armed Forces?

I joined the Air Force at 16 and did my degree alongside as distance learning with the Open University, which meant I had qualifications when looking for a new role, however finding the right position that was going to test my abilities, was difficult to find.  

Expleo found my CV online and approached me about a role supporting aero engines. I knew it was time for me to do something different. I had interviews and then I got the job. The main challenges I had was making clear to others what I could and couldn’t do.

man and penguins

Andy in the Falklands in 2003

What benefits do Expleo offer to members of the Armed Forces?

Since I work with our recruitment team, I make sure that when we get an application from anyone with a service background, someone in the review panel has a similar background so they can understand the terminology the applicant uses.​

I try to make sure we’re not overly prescriptive on exactly what qualifications somebody should have and instead look at their experience and see their potential and where we need to align service leavers with graduates, so that both can progress in their careers at Expleo.

What additional skills have you gained since you are at Expleo?

Acquiring people’s skills and how to interact with people differently, reflecting on my time in the military, I realised that operating in high-pressure situations with a position of authority allowed me to command others. However, I discovered that issuing orders based on my rank didn’t yield optimal results compared to persuading them effectively. It’s important to ensure everyone understands that we share a common objective. It’s also important to take a step back and prioritise the alignment of people’s goals first and then agree on actions, whereas when I was in the military our goals were clearly defined.

How do you feel Expleo allows you to use your expertise you gained during your service? 

I understand the direction the company is taking and to ensure success I make sure my priorities lie within Expleo’s vision. Drawing from my experience accumulated over the years, including military service and the 16-17 years I have been at Expleo, I leverage this experience and insight, to determine what needs to be achieved. It’s about identifying the individuals whose perspectives I must influence to achieve the desired outcomes. 

How do you connect with other members of the Ex-Forces Community at Expleo?

We use an internal channel to communicate with each other where we share best practices around the business. If you want somebody that understands the way you speak, and the way that you operate then you’ll find them. It might be that they are somewhere else in the country, but it is a great way to connect.

We are recruiting more  ex–forces personnel and we look forward to welcoming them to the 40 strong employees in the Ex-Forces Community here at Expleo

What advice would you give to other members of the Armed Forces Community who are planning to join Expleo?

I would strongly recommend Expleo, there are great opportunities and we’ve got many roles where we’re seeking experience from people that understand how aircrafts, submarines and tanks work. 

Read other stories from our veterans

David Burley

What is your name and your role at Expleo?

My name’s David Burley, and my position is a Senior Cyber Security Engineer.

How long have you been working at Expleo? 

Since October 2022.

Where and how long did you serve in the Armed Forces?

I joined the Royal Navy in 1987 and left in 2000, and I served in many places on ships from Portsmouth to Newcastle. In the Royal Navy I began as a Weapons Engineer and then I transferred across to a Weapons Engineering Artificer, which was a technical apprenticeship. I left the Royal Navy as a Chief Petty Officer Weapons Engineering Artificer.

man on a boat
David on HMS Chatham during Armilla Patrol alongside the US Navy in the Persian Gulf in 1991

What skills and experiences did you gain during your service?

I left as a Non-commissioned Officer, where I learned leadership skills running a team and how discipline is implemented.  You get used to working as part of a team but also running a team.

There’s a can-do attitude in the in the Armed Forces because if you’re at sea and something goes wrong with your ship and a weapon system that you’re in charge of is faulty, there’s no one else to call on to come and fix it for you. There are no second line technicians. You must fix it and by that you gain a can-do mentality.

What benefits do Expleo offer as a member of the Armed Forces?

It feels very familiar working at Expleo because we work in different verticals within my team, we work in the defence industry and on government contracts as well. Companies that I’ve dealt with in the past as part of the military, I’m still dealing with them now as a civilian, so there’s that consistency.

In my team there are quite a few ex-forces colleagues, and that feels very familiar. My manager is ex-army as well. It feels like a continuation of my military career.

What skills do you use in your current role that you gained during your service?

Expleo is an engineering company. As a weapons engineer in the Royal Navy, I used to be part of the implementation of new logistics, admin and payroll computer systems and that feels very similar to what I’m doing now at Expleo. I’m taking the skills of the weapons engineering, working in the team and then deploying it to my career.

What other skills have you gained since you joined Expleo?

I’m working in a very diverse and dynamic multicultural, multiracial and multi-country team.  When I was in the Navy, there weren’t many women that served on ships, but Expleo provides equal opportunities to all genders.  Currently 40% of our team are females, and we’re specifically working to recruit more women into our team to make it more balanced.

How do you feel Expleo allows you to use your expertise and creativity you gained during your service?

I have a lot of free will in my role and the ability to generate business ideas and improve processing systems. I think when you leave the Royal Navy/Armed Forces, you tend to be very detailed driven because that’s the way the forces operate. My team is growing rapidly and we’re trying to improve on every system and process to make us more efficient and being detailed driven and I’m allowed to that skill of mine at Expleo.

I’m always looking at processes and procedures and if I find a better and quicker way of doing things then I can speak to my manager, and we roll out that implementation. They’re very open to new ideas at Expleo to help improve systems.

How do you connect with other members of the Ex -Forces Community at Expleo?

We meet almost daily via Teams for various meetings. So, we can chat and share stories about old times in the forces during those meetings.

What advice would you give to other members of the Ex-Forces Community who are planning to join Expleo?

Reach out to us as early as you can. My manager and I are quite involved with a couple of LinkedIn and Facebook groups where we can advise you about opportunities, what exams you should be aiming for and what certifications would be recognised at Expleo. I work in cybersecurity and a lot of service leavers go towards that career because there are so many career opportunities within this field.

READ OTHER STORIES FROM OUR VETERANS

Robert Matthews

Read other stories from our veterans

What is your name and your role and how long have you been working at Expleo?

This year I’m celebrating my 12th year at Expleo. I started my career at Expleo as a Quality Auditor contractor, and then was offered a Staff position in the Life Cycle Management team, where I became a Deputy Team Lead, after which there was another promotion opportunity to an Engineering Manager, and later I was able to join our Marine division where I currently work.

Where and how long did you serve in the armed forces?

I served in the Air Force just shy of 25 years. I started my career as an Aero Engines Mechanic. My first posting was at Brize Norton working on VC 10s, Tri Stars & Hercules Aircraft. Then I went on to a technician’s course and became a Junior Technician, and then progressed into a leadership position as a Sergeant. I left the Air Force as a Senior Non-commissioned Officer.  

Robert Mathews
Rob in 2022 post remembrance parade in his local village. Remembrance day is very important to serving and veterans of the forces as it gives a chance to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in serving their country

What challenges did you have after leaving the Armed Forces?

My main challenge was worrying about Job Security. My manager was very supportive when I was still a contractor at Expleo and he transferred me over from contractor to permanent staff. I remember the conversation I had with him about the opportunities for secure job security and promotion.

And he said: “At Expleo, opportunities are out there for you, so go and get them”. And he was right, there are plenty of opportunities at Expleo. You just have to seize them. And every time I saw an opportunity at Expleo, I just went for it. 

I transferred a lot of my skills over to Expleo. For instance, the aircraft and engine experience, experience in fault diagnosis, and more in-depth engineering project management and of course my leadership & Management Skills 

How did Expleo help you to transition into your civilian job?

I found it quite an easy transition, as there were a lot of ex-forces colleagues within Expleo when I joined, some of which I knew already. For those that didn’t have a military background they were equally as welcoming.

How do you feel Expleo allows you to use your expertise you gained during your service?

Expleo gave me the freedom to use my transferable skills that I gained in the Air Force. My manager and colleagues had an open mindset for my ideas. I could bring those ideas into the office and illustrate how they could be implemented within a business setting They very much welcomed my ideas about improvements, and there is always an open environment for sharing ideas and previous knowledge. I also completed an Expleo Leadership Management course, which differed to the one I had in the Air Force. Combining the two gave me a much more rounded leadership and management mindset.

How do you connect with other members of the Armed Forces Community at Expleo?

I participate in careers transition workshops supporting recruiters. When Ex-Forces are looking for a new career, I attend the workshops chatting to the Armed Forces community sharing my experience and what I have learned.

What advice would you give to other members of the Armed Forces Community who are planning to join Expleo?

Expleo has many different opportunities, whether it be leadership management, various jobs in engineering, project management etc. Don’t think that you don’t have the skill set to join Expleo. It is within you; you do have those skills and Expleo can bring out these skills in people.

Read other stories from our veterans

Ron Evans

READ OTHER STORIES FROM OUR VETERANS

What is your name and your role at Expleo?

My name’s Ron Evans. I’m the Operations Director.

How long have you been working at Expleo? 

I joined the Royal Air Force just before my 18th birthday, as an Aircraft Proportion Engineer I was stationed at a few places around the UK.​

I left The Royal Air Force in 2006 and from that point I stayed within military roles, I was a civilian instructor, teaching aeronautical engineering to Royal Air Force Engineering officers and for the trainees that were doing their NVQ level 3s. In August 2014 I decided to come and join Expleo. ​

I’ve come all the way through the ranks at Expleo, beginning my career as an Engineer doing life cycle cost reductions. Within three months, I’d moved to a Team Lead position, and I was then asked if I was interested in becoming a Project Manager. Then an Operations Manager role came up in service engineering, and then I moved to become a Business Manager looking after turbo machinery. In 2020 I joined Marine as an Engineering Development Manager. After doing that I moved to become the Head of Business for Marine in Preston which I really enjoyed. After that, An opportunity came up to become an Operations Director which I’ve been doing for six months now.

What skills and experiences did you gain during your service?

The crucial skills that resonate with me are intrinsic drive and an inherent inclination towards self-initiation. Being exposed to different challenging environments in my service, means that I have been accustomed to swift-thinking and problem solving. My career in the Royal Air Force has empowered me to evaluate situations and engineer viable solutions.

My career in the forces also meant that I was very used to going away on detachments and deployments, and therefore I am adaptable and flexible in exploring various roles and locations. Being in the forces meant being part of a bigger conglomerate and always part of a team, we’re all cogs in a wheel and that’s a good thing that the forces bring to companies like Expleo, as we understand importance of teamwork. My experience equips me with leadership skills and strong communication abilities.  

Soldier on plane
Ron is about to take off in a Tornado F3 from RAF Mount Pleasant in the Falkland Islands, in August 2004, whilst serving on 1435 Flight.

What challenges did you have after leaving the Armed Forces?

Self doubt is one of the biggest challenges. I did 10 years in the RAF and even after what I did, it seems a relatively short amount of time. Service was indoctrination and that you feel you’ve been part of an institution that looked after you.

Most of the individuals that join the Armed Forces, have joined at a young age and that’s all they’ve known. It can be quite scary after leaving the Armed Forces, as you don’t know what to expect, you’ve been in a job that was very stable and now you’re in a civilian environment where you have concerns about job security.
You don’t know whether you’ll fit because you’ve been used to operating an environment with certain people and you don’t know how well you’ll be received. Certainly, it’s the step into the unknown.

I’ve been at Expleo  since 2014, and they provided me with a platform that supported me to build a second career. None of us at Expleo  are still in the same roles we were when we first joined the company, all of us have been given the opportunity to move up the ladder and progress our careers.

How do you connect with other members of the Ex-Forces Community at Expleo?

Even though there was no formal military program in place when I joined, there were several Ex-Forces people. We all try to support one another, there is a great support network and Expleo supports that.

What is also a key thing at Expleo for guys leaving the military is what we call a meritocracy. At Expleo there are availability options, opportunities that are available to anyone. If you’re good enough, if you’re prepared or you show that you’re more capable or prepared to go the extra mile, you’ll get genuinely recognised  for that and you’ll get supported with an opportunity to move through. It really does all depend on the individual.

What skills do you use in your current role that you gained during your service?

Number one is leadership skills. You don’t need to be in a managerial position to be a leader. You can bring your team together, lead and can manage upwards. Organisational skills which I have learned are also important and being able to be on top of your administration. You get some good technical depth and technical ground, and the ability to problem solve are key skills that can be used within roles at Expleo. The ability to think fast on your feet as problems arise and come up with appropriate solutions. 

What kind of other skills have you gained since you are joined Expleo?

The ability to make a decision. Some people are reversed to making the decision, but it always best to be able to make a decision if you can.

Expleo is giving me the opportunity to really develop and grow my managerial skills. I’ve had exposure to commercials, risk management etc. All of these areas that you only get limited exposure to in the Armed Forces. Expleo has given me the ability to lead and manage some challenging and interesting cutting-edge programs.

What advice would you give to other members of the Ex-Forces Community who are planning to join Expleo?

We’ve got a great Ex- Forces Community here. Service leavers may have questions around job security, but you need to put trust in the training and skills that you have and know that Expleo will welcome you with open arms. 

There are opportunities to develop your career with Expleo, none of us are still in the same role in which we started with the company. We’ve all been given an opportunity to progress and learn, if you’re prepared to apply yourself.   It’s a great company to work for.

READ OTHER STORIES FROM OUR VETERANS

Steve Elce

What is your name and your role at Expleo?

Steve Elce, UDL – Cybersecurity Practice Lead (Head of Cyber).

How long have you been working at Expleo? 

I joined in May 2022.  

Where and how long did you serve in the Armed Forces?

Army, with The Queen’s Royal Lancers and The Royal Lancers, and 24 years.

I embarked on my military journey in 1998, starting as a driver for the Challenger Main Battle Tank (MBT). This role was my introduction not only to manoeuvring these massive machines, but also to the field of mechanical engineering.  I was responsible for maintaining and supporting the vehicle, undertaking tasks ranging from engine lifts to track changes.  Shortly after the release of the Challenger II, I transitioned to this newer model, continuing to enhance my driving and engineering skills.  A few years into my service, I switched crew positions to become the Gunner.  This change offered me the opportunity to learn about weapon engineering, deepening my technical knowledge and expertise.  My journey did not stop there; I next took on the role of the Operator.  This position came with an array of responsibilities, from ensuring the well-being of the crew to loading the main armament and small arms.  I also served as a Radio Operator, my first exposure to the world of telecommunications.  After serving in these various roles, I was given the chance to select a specialised engineering field from options including weapon engineering, mechanical engineering, and IT & telecommunications.  I decided to pursue the latter and immersed myself in the field of IT & telecommunications.  Over time, I not only became a subject matter expert in this area, but also took on the role of an instructor, passing on my knowledge and skills to others.

Climbing through the ranks and roles, I ultimately assumed the position of a Tank Commander, a role that demanded immense technical prowess, leadership capabilities, and resilience in the face of high-stress situations.  As a tank commander, my responsibilities were extensive and varied, starting with Command and Control.  This involved orchestrating the activities of my crew, which included a driver, a gunner, and an operator, while making critical, split-second decisions.  Another pivotal aspect was Tactical Decision Making, where I needed to grasp the broader mission goals while making real-time tactical decisions.  This required swift assessment of various factors such as enemy strength, terrain, visibility, and more, with the knowledge that a poor decision could put my crew at risk.  Navigation was another challenging duty, often through difficult and unfamiliar terrains.  A strong understanding of maps, compasses, and potentially GPS systems was critical, along with the capacity to adjust quickly when necessary.  My role also required comprehensive knowledge of our Weapon Systems Operation, including the main gun and any secondary weapons, as I had to potentially assume the gunner’s role in certain situations.  While dedicated mechanics were usually available, as a tank commander, I had to understand the basic mechanics of the tank for on-the-spot troubleshooting or repairs, especially during combat.  Taking care of my crew’s welfare, both physically and mentally, was a vital aspect of my role.  Maintaining morale, managing interpersonal issues, and ensuring effective role performance within the confines of a tank often proved to be a challenge.  I was also responsible for the Training and Development of my crew, ensuring everyone could proficiently perform their duties and were prepared for a range of situations.  Communication, both within my crew and with other units or command structures, was crucial and could be stressful during combat.  Being a tank commander meant working under high stress, knowing that the crew’s lives and the mission’s success hinged on my decisions and leadership.  Despite these challenges, the role offered me the opportunity to lead, contribute significantly to mission success, and build close bonds with my crew.

Throughout my tenure in the military, I had the privilege and responsibility of operating and commanding a diverse array of defence platforms.  This gave me a comprehensive exposure to various facets of military operations, each platform honing my skills and enriching my experience in different ways.

In the latter half of my military career, I evolved from frontline roles into a leader in Cyber, Operational Technology (OT), Information Technology (IT), and telecommunications.  These positions allowed me to leverage my technical experience from earlier roles while honing my leadership skills and strategic thinking.  In my role as an ICT and Application Specialist, I was responsible for managing critical communication and information systems.  This position required a deep understanding of various software applications and IT infrastructure components.  I ensured the smooth operation and maintenance of these systems, troubleshooting problems, overseeing upgrades, and implementing security measures.  As an Information Data Manager, I took on the responsibility of managing the vast quantities of data that the military generates.  This included everything from personnel records to intelligence reports.  I developed and maintained data management systems, created policies to ensure data quality, and oversaw the security of sensitive information.  Progressing to the role of Senior IT Systems Manager, I was tasked with overseeing larger and more complex IT operations.  I coordinated multiple teams to ensure the seamless integration of systems, managed large-scale IT projects, and developed strategies to improve system efficiency and security.  This role provided me with a holistic view of IT operations, exposing me to a variety of systems and challenges.  As the Information Security Officer and Senior IT & Cybersecurity Manager, I was at the forefront of defending our networks and systems against cyber threats.  This involved developing and implementing security policies, monitoring systems for breaches, conducting vulnerability assessments, and leading responses to any security incidents.  In this role, I had to stay abreast of the latest cybersecurity threats and technologies, which further deepened my understanding of the rapidly evolving cyber landscape.  Each of these roles added a new layer of complexity and knowledge to my skills set, pushing me to continually learn and adapt.  These positions underscored the importance of leadership, communication, and strategic thinking in successfully managing teams and operations in high-stakes, high-pressure environments.

Man wearing army uniform
Steven served as a Guard of Honour at a military wedding in 2013, where he proudly participated in the ceremonial traditions, displaying his commitment and respect for his fellow servicemen and women

What skills and experiences did you gain during your service?

During my 24 years of service in the military, I acquired a vast array of skills and experiences that continue to be invaluable in my role as the Head of Cyber in Expleo. 

In the military, I was extensively trained in IT/OT and telecommunications systems, which formed the technical backbone of my expertise.  This training involved working with a wide range of technology stacks and developing a deep understanding of their interconnectivity, security, and implications.  I honed my skills in network administration, system maintenance, troubleshooting, as well as the implementation and management of complex technological infrastructures.  I also gained an in-depth understanding of cybersecurity best practices and the crucial importance of protecting data and systems integrity against threats.  Management and leadership qualities were other significant skills I developed during my military service.  I learned to lead teams in high-pressure situations, strategies operations under tight deadlines, and make crucial decisions that can affect the outcome of an entire operation. 

These experiences have sharpened my problem-solving skills and my ability to think critically and quickly under pressure.  They have also taught me the importance of clear and effective communication, especially in crisis scenarios.  The military cultivated my resilience and work ethic.  There is a distinct will to go above and beyond that is instilled in you in the forces – the drive to not only meet the bare minimum but to always strive for excellence.  This has translated into a self-motivated attitude that urges me to persevere until a problem is resolved, no matter how complex or daunting it may seem at first. 

My military service has deeply ingrained in me the values of integrity, discipline, and commitment.  I hold myself accountable to the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.  This value system continues to guide me in my current role and ensures that I always strive to provide the best possible service to Expleo and clients.

What challenges did you have after leaving the Armed Forces?

Transitioning from the Armed Forces to civilian life presented several unique challenges, one of the most significant being Imposter Syndrome.  As I embarked on my new journey, I found myself battling internal doubts about my own accomplishments. 

Despite my extensive experience and skills honed over 24 years in the military, I questioned whether I truly deserved the success I had achieved and worried that I would be revealed as a “fraud.”  This self-doubt was not a reflection of my competence but a psychological pattern where I was attributing my achievements to luck, timing, or the ability to deceive others into thinking that I was more capable than I actually was.  The shift from the structured military environment to a corporate setting, where recognition often comes in different forms and standards for success can be nebulous, likely exacerbated these feelings.

However, after a few weeks, I began to recognise that my fear was not rooted in reality.  As I started to immerse myself in my work, I realised that the skills and knowledge I had acquired in the military, particularly in IT/OT, telecommunications, and leadership, were indeed highly valuable in my new role.  My ability to navigate high-pressure situations, manage complex systems, and make critical decisions were skills that translated very well into the corporate world.  This realisation was instrumental in overcoming my initial Imposter Syndrome.  I began to feel more comfortable and confident in my abilities and the unique value I brought to the table.  My experience underscores the importance of recognising the applicability of one’s skills across different contexts and appreciating the value of diverse experiences, particularly those earned in the service of one’s country.

How did Expleo help you to transit into your civilian job?

From the Armed Forces to a civilian role at Expleo was a significant shift, but the company and its culture greatly facilitated this transition.  One of the key elements that aided my transition was the presence of other veterans within Expleo.  Having individuals who have undergone the same journey from military life to a civilian career offered a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding.  We could relate to each other’s experiences, challenges, and the unique skills and perspectives we brought to the table.  This not only helped me feel understood and valued but also served as a reminder that the skills and experience gained in the military are truly valuable and transferable to the corporate world.  My first line manager at Expleo, who was also ex-forces, played a critical role in my transition.  Having been through the same process, he had a profound understanding of the challenges that come with this transition.  His guidance was instrumental in helping me navigate the new environment, expectations, and culture.  His personal experience also meant he recognised and appreciated the qualities and skills I brought to the team from my military background.  The supportive and understanding environment at Expleo allowed me to feel more comfortable, to leverage my military skills in a new context, and to rapidly build my confidence in the civilian workspace.  This experience highlighted the importance of having supportive leadership and a diverse team that values the unique perspectives and skills that each member brings.

What skills do you use in your current role that you gained during your service?

Throughout my service in the military, I developed a diverse set of skills that I now utilise daily in my current role as the Head of Cyber at Expleo.  The first set of skills revolve around my experience in IT/OT and telecommunications.  While serving in the military, I was deeply involved with complex technological infrastructures, where I developed a broad understanding of their design, management, security, and maintenance.  My expertise in these areas is now put to use daily as I oversee cybersecurity, network architecture, data management, and other critical technological aspects within Expleo.  My military service also instilled in me a strong set of management and leadership qualities, which I apply hourly in my current role.  From coordinating tasks, leading teams, to making critical decisions under pressure, these skills allow me to effectively oversee operations, strategize, and drive my team towards achieving our cybersecurity goals.  It has also enhanced my capacity to communicate effectively, promote teamwork, and foster a positive work environment. In addition to these technical and leadership skills, my military service fostered a profound work ethic within me.  The military ingrains a will to go above and beyond the bare minimum and to remain self-motivated until a problem is resolved.  This mentality is invaluable in the field of cybersecurity, where threats are evolving continuously and often require tireless effort to manage and mitigate effectively.

All of these skills – the technical acumen in IT/OT and telecommunications, the leadership and management prowess, and the tenacious work ethic – are integral to my role at Expleo.  They equip me to effectively handle the challenges and responsibilities that come with being Head of Cyber, demonstrating the enduring value of the training and experiences I had during my service in the military.

What kind of other skills have you gained since you are at Expleo?

Since joining Expleo, I’ve acquired a range of new skills that have allowed me to better navigate and contribute to the commercial sector.  While some aspects of the corporate environment were familiar to me due to the structural and operational parallels with the military, I still found myself faced with a unique set of challenges and opportunities to learn.  One of the most critical skills I’ve developed at Expleo is a deep understanding of the business landscape and commercial operations.  This includes gaining knowledge of market trends, understanding client needs, and developing strategies that align with business goals.  I’ve also learned to navigate the nuanced dynamics of the commercial sector, including business negotiations, customer relations, and competitive positioning.  Another significant skill I’ve honed since joining Expleo is a refined approach to team leadership within the context of a civilian organisation.  While my military experience provided me with strong foundational leadership skills, leading in the corporate world often required a different style and approach.  I’ve learned to adjust my communication and decision-making to better suit a business environment and to inspire and motivate my team in this new context.

Adapting to a different pace and style of work was also a valuable learning experience.  In the military, actions are often dictated by strict schedules and immediate necessity, while in the corporate world, strategic planning and long-term vision play a much larger role.  I’ve learned to balance urgency with thoughtful deliberation and to align short-term tasks with long-term objectives.  Embracing these learning opportunities has enabled me to become a leader at Expleo fairly quickly.  I believe that my willingness to learn and adapt, combined with my military-honed skills and ethics, played a vital role in this swift progression.  Despite the initial learning curve, I was able to bring the discipline, resilience, and leadership from my military service into my role at Expleo, augmented by new skills and insights specific to the commercial sector.

How do you feel Expleo allows you to use your expertise you gained during your service?

Expleo provides a dynamic environment where the skills and expertise I gained during my military service are not only applicable but highly valued.  My role as Head of Cyber allows me to fully utilise and build upon these skills in a variety of ways.  Technical delivery, a critical component of my military experience, comes into play daily at Expleo.  My background in IT/OT and telecommunications is especially relevant in the realm of cybersecurity, where an understanding of systems, networks, and their potential vulnerabilities is crucial.  I’m able to directly apply this expertise to enhance client’s cybersecurity measures, protect critical information, and ensure the efficient operation of our technological infrastructure.  My experience with governance in the Defence sector is another key aspect of my military background that is put to use at Expleo.  The understanding of policy, regulatory compliance, and operational standards I developed in the military serves as a solid foundation for managing and improving the governance frameworks within Expleo’s cybersecurity landscape.  This experience helps ensure our practices align with legal and ethical guidelines, industry standards, and best practices.

Now, in a leadership position at Expleo, I leverage the leadership and management skills honed in the military to mentor and guide the growth of our Cyber Team.  From directing strategic operations to fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork, I’m able to contribute to the development of a high-performing team that is equipped to navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape.  In terms of strategy, the military taught me to always anticipate potential obstacles and to plan several steps ahead.  This mindset is integral to my current role, where planning for the unexpected and implementing robust contingency plans are essential for maintaining operational resilience against cyber threats.

Expleo not only allows me to use the expertise I gained during my military service but also provides opportunities to continue to build upon these skills in a dynamic, fast-paced, and challenging environment.

How do you connect with other members of the Ex -Forces Community at Expleo?

LinkedIn, MS Teams Community Chat and within my team.

What advice would you give to other members of the Ex-Forces Community who are planning to join Expleo?

Transitioning from the military to a civilian career can be challenging, but it’s also a rewarding journey filled with opportunities for growth and new experiences. Based on my own experience, here are some pieces of advice for members of the Ex-Forces community who are planning to join Expleo:

  • Value Your Skills. Recognise that your military experience has equipped you with a unique set of skills and perspectives that are highly valuable in the corporate world. Leadership, discipline, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and a strong work ethic are just some of the many qualities you bring to the table.
  • Learn and Adapt. Be open to learning and embrace the differences between the military and the commercial sector. Understand that there will be a learning curve and don’t be hard on yourself if you don’t know everything at first. Take advantage of training opportunities, ask questions, and seek mentorship where available.
  • Leverage Your Network. Connect with other veterans within Expleo who have gone through the same transition. Their experiences and insights can be an invaluable resource as you navigate your new career. The sense of camaraderie within the ex-military community can also provide a great source of support.
  • Communicate Your Experience. Don’t be afraid to articulate how your military skills translate to your new role. Often, the challenge lies in translating military jargon and experiences into language that the civilian sector understands. Learning to do this effectively can help you better communicate your value and contributions.
  • Patience. Adjusting to a new career outside of the military won’t happen overnight. Be patient with yourself during this transition period. Understand that it’s okay to take time to adjust to your new environment and work culture.
  • Self-Care. Transitioning from military to civilian life can be stressful. Make sure to take care of your mental and physical health during this process. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it.

Military service has prepared you for this new journey in many ways. As you join Expleo, you bring with you a unique skill set and experiences that will make a significant contribution to the organisation.

Read other stories from our veterans

Philip Bishop

What is your name and your role at Expleo?

My name’s Philip Bishop, and I’m a Systems Engineering Manager in the Marine division.

How long have you been working at Expleo? 

Since November 2023.  

What skills and experiences did you gain during your service?

Communication skills. Working with lots of different people from different cultures, and various statuses, including juniors and seniors. When I left the Navy, I was in a leadership role as a Chief Petty Officer, so I also learnt leadership and management skills. 

I’ve also learnt about electrical engineering and systems engineering, mainly in combat systems. So, understanding how the whole combat system on submarines and ships work and how it interacts with each other. My key skill is my knowledge of integration.

What challenges did you have after leaving the Armed Forces?

I had some self-doubt. I was in the Navy for nine years, and I knew everything I was doing by then. Obviously, I was quite experienced. But it seemed daunting to jump into a new area and having to try to establish yourself in a different environment which I was not familiar with. When I left the Navy, stepping into the civilian life and understanding the way of ways of working was challenging. 

Philip, an ex-soldier

Philip on a mission in the Mediterranean

What skills do you use in your current role that you gained during your service?

Leadership and management of people and projects, and to understand the whole process working with defence companies, and being able to communicate with them on a level I know that aligns with their preferred communication style. 

How do you connect with other members of the Ex-forces at Expleo?

We meet monthly with the wider veteran community to discuss ongoing things or just to share familiar stories. A lot of people I’m working with are ex-veterans, so having that mutual understanding and respect for each other helps a lot and gives you a bit of a social connection and provides common ground. 

What advice would you give to other members of Ex-forces community who are planning to join Expleo?

There’s plenty of opportunities and different projects to get involved in across defence and other industries, which opens doors and means that you execute your expertise and upskill. There’s lots of ex–veterans here and they’ll help put you at ease, because you’ll work with a lot of people who have similar mindsets or those have shared the same experiences as you, so they can help and guide you. 

Read other stories from our veterans