News

March 13th 2025

Known as Exercise Executive Leader, this specialist training day provided participants with an overview of the Army’s leadership ethos and an opportunity to reflect on their understanding of leadership in the workplace.

Additionally, the 40 business leaders taking part were encouraged to consider the significant contributions that Army Reservists and ex-service personnel make to the civilian workplace. 

Reservists and Veterans are tested under intentionally challenging conditions that cannot be replicated in civilian workplaces. As a result, they are resilient, resourceful, and prepared for whatever comes their way.

Lessons and command tasks

The day began by highlighting the Army’s leadership values: courage, discipline, respect, integrity, loyalty and a selfless commitment. This was followed by practical exercises that allowed participants to apply the skills they had learned in real-world scenarios. 

Invitations to the exercise were extended to businesses that provide outstanding support for Reserves, Cadet Instructors, Military Spouses, and ex-Service Personnel within their workplace.

Senior personnel from Toyota Manufacturing UK, holders of the Gold Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award, attended the event to deepen their understanding of the values and principles upheld by the Armed Forces. 

Mandy-Jayne Evans, Senior Specialist at Toyota Manufacturing UK, said: “We were really proud and honoured to receive our Gold Award and being invited to events like today remind us how important businesses are in supporting the Armed Forces community.

“Today has been invaluable, not only for our colleagues within the Armed Forces but also for us as a management team to understand and appreciate the values and principles at play within the Armed Forces. It’s been a fantastic day, and we’ve learned a lot.”

Demonstrating their ongoing commitment after recently signing the Armed Forces Covenant, waste management services company Axil was also present to network with other ERS employers and learn what more they can do to support the Armed Forces. 

Jason Chapman, Operations Manager at Axil, said: “It’s great to be invited to today’s event. I believe team building and introducing people to an Army environment allows us to view leadership in a new light. 

“While it’s important to practice these values in the workplace, it’s refreshing to hone these skills outside of work, and the Army has provided a great setting for this today.

“At Axil, we are always open to recruiting individuals who have previously served in the Forces as they possess valuable attributes that can greatly benefit our team.”

Enhancing employer awareness of Armed Forces contributions

After leaving the Royal Yorkshire Regiment two years ago, Corporal Brian Cave transitioned into the civilian workforce by joining recruitment firm GI Holding Group UK. 

Since becoming a Recruitment Consultant, Brian has led initiatives to enhance support for the Armed Forces within his employer’s workplace. As a current Silver ERS holder, he is optimistic about achieving Gold this year.

Brian said: “As a recruitment consultant, I interact with numerous businesses in our region, and I consistently promote the Armed Forces Covenant and its significance. While awareness is growing, there’s still much work to be done. 

“As a Veteran, I understand the value Armed Forces personnel bring to the workplace, and I believe my colleagues have gained valuable insights from days like today. This understanding is crucial, as it allows them to appreciate the contributions of Armed Forces personnel and spread that awareness throughout the company.”

It wasn’t just the employers who benefited from the day. Warrant Officer Class One Erik Rawdon, Regimental Sergeant Major for East Midlands Universities Officer Training Corps, shared his perspective: “Seeing people out of uniform has been really refreshing. 

“We can get caught up in our way of doing things, but observing civilian organisations and their perspectives on leadership and how global events affect them is quite interesting.

“Particularly with the Army Reserve, many individuals want to serve while maintaining civilian jobs. As an employer, it’s important to recognise that these individuals are not ordinary employees—they are contributing significantly in their own time to support the Army. 

“I urge employers to recognise and support these individuals, as the skills they develop in the Army can greatly benefit your organisation.”

To view images from the day, access our Exercise Executive Leader 2025 photo gallery. If you’re an employer from the East Midlands and want to learn more about the Employer Recognition Scheme, head to our dedicated webpage.