20 Years, One Mission: Supporting Military Talent
Yesterday, a simple question from a colleague made me pause: “What are your plans to celebrate 20 years in business?“. At that moment, I realised how intertwined my personal milestones are with my professional journey.
In March, as I turn 60, I also mark 20 years since launching my business, Demob Job, from the modest confines of a home office. Armed with just a laptop, a mobile phone, and a fax machine, I set out with a mission born from 24 years in the military – to champion the skills and abilities of those I had been proud to serve with.
Reflecting on these 20 years, I’m struck by how much my team and I have achieved together and how much the recruitment landscape has evolved. We’ve navigated technological advancements, shifts in workforce dynamics, and economic ups and downs, yet our core mission has remained unchanged: connecting UK companies with the best talent leaving the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force.
Today, I am even more inspired by how many companies recognise and value the skills and abilities of ex-military personnel. The appreciation for this often overlooked and hard-to-find pool of highly skilled individuals is far greater now than when I first opened my laptop in 2005.
So, if you are a company that employs ex-military personnel, I extend a heartfelt ‘thank you’. Your commitment supports individuals in their transition and enriches your teams with diverse, skilled, and disciplined talent.
When I hung up my uniform, I knew I needed a new challenge that would fuel my creativity, keep me engaged, and allow me to make a real impact. I’ve never been one to sit still.
Even this morning, I woke up with the same excitement I had when I first started. The difference now? I’m not just building a business, I’m part of a mission that changes lives, helping others find their next chapter just as I found mine.
To those transitioning from military to civilian life, know your skills are valued, your experience is needed, and your next opportunity is out there.
Adrian Cheesman
Demob Job Founder
>> If you are leaving your military engineering or technical career, place your details on our radar for free job seeking support – click here