For military personnel leaving the Armed Forces, the transition to civilian life can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. Yet beneath the surface, the skills developed through decades of military service are not only transferable but they are also highly valuable in the commercial world. The challenge lies in recognising how these capabilities align with board-level roles and learning how to communicate them effectively. That’s where the OnBoarding Officers Non-Executive Director Programme comes in.
Real World Examples
Military leadership is complex, strategic, and deeply operational. Take, for example, an RAF Air Commodore who served as Head of Accommodation at the Defence Infrastructure Organisation. Responsible for housing services for over 40,000 Service families across the UK and Europe, this role required expertise in leadership, asset management, health, safety & compliance, as well as budgeting and strategic communications. These are not just military competencies; they are core commercial skills.
Through the OnBoarding Officers programme, this individual seamlessly transitioned into a Non-Executive Director (NED) role at a regional housing association with over 10,000 homes. The skills honed in service, including strategy, stakeholder management, and management of change, proved directly applicable. However, it was the programme’s targeted learning in board responsibilities, statutory reporting, and finance that enabled a confident and effective contribution at board level.
Another example is an Army Major General who led the Army’s Land Warfare Directorate, overseeing collective and trade training, doctrine, and development. Their military role required board-level leadership, strategic decision-making, and budget management skills, which translated seamlessly into a portfolio of NED, chairmanship, and strategic advisory roles. The OnBoarding Officers programme enhanced their transition by building commercial fluency in profit and loss, risk management, and board dynamics, while reinforcing the importance of understanding organisational culture.
Military Experience as an Advantage
These stories illustrate a powerful truth: military personnel possess a rich and diverse skillset that is not only transferable but often superior in high-pressure, strategic environments. The key is learning how to reframe these capabilities in a commercial context, something the OnBoarding Officers programme is uniquely designed to support.
Participants gain insight into the responsibilities of a NED, the dynamics of boardroom decision-making, and the financial and legal frameworks that underpin corporate governance. More importantly, they learn how to position their military experience as a strategic asset, bringing clarity, resilience, and leadership to organisations seeking fresh perspectives.
Your Next Steps
Whether you are preparing for your next chapter or planning ahead for resettlement, the OnBoarding Officers Non-Executive Director Programme offers a proven pathway. It’s not just about finding a new role, it’s about recognising the value of your service and using it to shape the future of business.
Explore the NED programme today and discover how your military career can continue to make a difference, this time, in the boardroom.