Friday 21st May 2021
When the time is right for you to move on from your career in the Armed Forces, or as a military spouse or partner, you might like to consider the Barclays Military Talent Scheme or 1-2-1 Mentor Programme. Here’s former RAF Corporal, Matt’s journey.
Hi, I’m Matt. I grew up in Clacton-on-Sea in Essex and it had always been an ambition of mine to join the RAF after going to a local Air Show. With the buzz of seeing different aircraft and visiting the stands advertising what the RAF do, I knew it was something I would love to be a part of. I joined after leaving college and completed my training to become a Survival Equipment Technician. I loved working in survival. I travelled to some amazing places, completed operational tours and met incredible people.
After nearly 13 years I decided it was time for a change. I’d loved my time in the RAF but couldn’t picture doing the same job until I retired and the travelling was taking its toll on me. With one young daughter and another one on the way, I knew that being away from them would never get easier. I was ready for a new challenge and decided to go for it!
During my resettlement, I was successful in applying to join the Barclays Military Talent Scheme and after a 12-week internship, was lucky enough to be offered a full time role in Employee Communications. My day-to-day role now is to edit news articles and stories, publish newsletters, edit videos, help organise events and drive Barclays’ people priorities such as supporting colleague wellbeing, citizenship and diversity and inclusion across the Risk Function.
I now live in Suffolk, with my wife, Jennifer and our two daughters, Mally (5) and Mabel (1), and a cat called Ralph. The attraction to taking the steps for me personally was for a new challenge alongside a better work-life balance.
I’ve been incredibly lucky. My journey has been smooth and I will forever be thankful – especially to the incredible teams who run the Barclays Military Talent Scheme, and my current team for giving me such a huge opportunity.
The positives
Barclays really care. They provide service leavers with the platform to transition into a completely new career. Even before the pandemic, I was able to work from home a few days a week which allowed me to do things I’d never normally be able to do, like the school run, afterschool clubs and spending more time with my family. I also got the excitement of working in London, meeting and working with great people. Financially, I’m also able to support my family, this has given my wife the opportunity to study to become a child nurse at university, something she’s always wanted to do.
Advice to others
People will tell you the grass isn’t always greener but there really are so many opportunities out there when the time is right for you to move on.
Employers love the skills that people from the military bring to an organisation and you will shine. Just network as much as you can and go for it!
Further information
I’d definitely recommend checking out the amazing opportunities that Barclays has to offer for service leavers and veterans.
Barclays is extending their support to military spouses too through their 1-2-1 mentor programme.
You can contact the Military and Veterans Outreach Team with any questions: [email protected].
Need more general help on Transition/Employment Support?
You can also explore the RAF Families Federation’s online reference section towards Transition or Employment and Training opportunities.
