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Junior managers learn about Army leadership

Exercise Future Leader had 40 junior managers from organisations across the East Midlands take part in leadership theory training before trying to apply what they had learnt in a series of unique challenges.

They split up into small groups to work through theories of leadership

Leadership theory lessons were based around the Army’s Leadership Code and delivered by Officers from 162 Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps at Chetwynd barracks. The participants then took part in command tasks where they were set a team-based challenge that they needed to work together in order to complete. 

Jenna Townend, a Graduate Trainee at Loughborough University who took part in the event, said: “It was a valuable experience to come along. I think one of the real strengths was being able to learn from people whose expertise is in leadership but also being able to bounce ideas off people from a really wide range of other organisations as well.

“The most valuable lesson for me was being willing to change decisions and change the plan as you’re working through a problem.” 

The participants came from a wide range of backgrounds and organisations but all were selected by their organisation as someone who they expect to take on senior management roles in the future. 

The teams needed to work together to complete the command tasks

Major Mark Orr, Executive Officer at 162 Regiment, RLC who organised the event, explained: “We try to provide a clear overview of Army leadership by giving each of the participants a greater understanding of leadership theory and the best way they can apply this in the civilian workplace.

“We can also showcase the skills that all members of the Army will develop whether Regular or Reserve and how these can be of great use in the civilian workplace.”  

John Wilson, the Ministry of Defence’s Regional Employer Engagement Director, said: “I think that this event was a valuable exercise for all of the participants. Not only does it aim to help them when back in the office, I also hope they have seen how skills developed through military service can bring real benefits to businesses.” 

The Army Leadership Code aims to translate the values and standards of the Army into desired leadership behaviours, it was introduced in 2015 and is the basis of leadership training for all Army officers. 

Participants were invited to attend because their organisation has signed the Armed Forces Covenant and earned an Employer Recognition Scheme Award. 

To find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant visit www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk or speak to the East Midlands Regional Employer Engagement Director by calling 01159248627.