Employers from across East Anglia came together at RAF Marham in Norfolk earlier this month for an employer engagement breakfast.
RAF Marham’s station commander, Group Captain Leonie Boyd OBE ADC, welcomed businesses that support the Defence community to the base, which hosts F-35 Lightning multi-role fighters.
With the assistance of guest speakers during the morning event, the group explored the mutual benefits to Armed Forces and civilian organisations alike of employing reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, veterans and their families. The breakfast informed employers about what being a reservist truly means, and crucially, how Defence personnel in the workforce can add real value to businesses, public bodies and charities.
Reservists and veterans offer specialist knowledge developed through their military training, from problem-solving under pressure and adaptability to leadership and teamwork. These transferable skills help East Anglian employers build more resilient and capable teams.
Gary Dack from Norwich City Football Club shared insights into the team’s experience of supporting reservists, showing the audience how businesses of all sizes and sectors can find assets in Reserve Forces personnel and veterans.
The event marked a significant milestone for Ben Burgess, a major agricultural, construction and grounds care machinery supplier based in Huntingdon, as Ben Turner (pictured above right) signed the covenant on the company’s behalf, formally committed them to supporting the Defence community.
The breakfast also offered an invaluable opportunity for all the employers in attendance to strengthen their relationship with East Anglia RFCA and to network with fellow businesses who understand the importance of supporting those who serve.
These connections are at the heart of what we do, with events like this showing the growing commitment from employers across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk to supporting Defence. To find out more, contact our Employer Engagement team about advancing through the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
