FDM Helps Over 837 Ex-Forces into Tech Careers

FDM Group, a leading business and tech consultancy, has been ranked 13th in the Great British Employers of Veterans 2024.

This recognition, among 150 applicants, underscores FDM's outstanding commitment to supporting veterans transitioning from military service to civilian careers.

FDM received five nominations in various categories, including:

• Advocate of the Year (Organisation) – FDM

• Advocate of the Year (Individual) – Rod Flavell, CEO FDM Group

• Innovator of the Year – William Dobell

• Rising Star – Alex Rennie

• New Service Leaver of the Year – Sarah Gibb

Rod Flavell, CEO of FDM Group, won the Advocate of the Year award for his dedication to employing military personnel. Additionally, FDM alumnus Alex Rennie, now a Project Manager at a major energy company, received the Rising Star Award.

Established in 2014, FDM’s Ex-Forces Programme (EFP) has supported over 837 veterans from all ranks and services, facilitating their transition into meaningful second careers. FDM recruits veterans as permanent employees, providing training in IT, Change, and Project Management before placing them with clients. The ex-forces team offers continuous support to ensure their success in the commercial sector.

FDM was also highly commended in the Employer of the Year category at the Scottish Ex-Forces in Business Awards 2024. Individual commendations were awarded to:

• Karen Campbell – New Service Leader of the Year

• Mark McLauchlin – Innovator of the Year

• Sandy Campbell – Military Values in Business

• David Jarvis – Inspiration of the Year

Colonel Stewart Sharman (Retired) MBE, Global Head of Veterans at FDM Group, expressed pride in their efforts: "Veterans bring a variety of skills from their military service, allowing them to adapt and excel in any environment. Their deep understanding of team dynamics and the ability to leverage both individual and team strengths significantly enhance any business. We empower veterans to harness the skills and experience gained in the forces, and it has been gratifying to see how well the programme has been received across our client base."

Rod Flavell, CEO at FDM Group, added: "FDM prides itself on ensuring veterans have the right skills to succeed across various technical and business opportunities. We are thrilled to be ranked 13th in the Great British Employers of Veterans Awards and commended as Employer of the Year at the Scottish British Ex-Forces in Business Awards 2024. Being recognized as Advocate of the Year highlights the success of our Ex-Forces Programme and demonstrates how adaptable and well-trained service personnel can transition their skills into any industry. Tech is often perceived as having a high barrier to entry, but reskilling and upskilling can help break down those barriers and set people up for successful careers in the corporate world."

FDM also collaborates with partner organizations such as Walking with the Wounded and The Wounded Warrior Project, further supporting veterans in their career transitions.