Desider September 2019 Feature Contents

www.des.mod.uk

Issue 134 September 2019 the magazine for defence equipment des and support

DE&S apprentices excel at prestigious engineering competition Proud to support

We are proud to work side by side with the men and women who keep us safe. In collaboration with our partners, we are designing new ways to support the Royal Navy in the important work they do. Increasing productivity, reducing costs and improving quality and safety. It’s a critical part of how we give our customers more of what they need. Commitment where it counts.

baesystems.com Copyright © 2019 BAE Systems Image © Crown Copyright 2013 Forewordhope most of you had the During Exec Connect my opportunity to take a break team will be visiting RAF I over August and are ready to Coningsby and Marham, HMNB take on any fresh challenges we Devonport, Bicester and Yeovil may face as we move into what is and our Defence Munitions sites a very busy time for Defence. at Kineton, Gosport, Beith and Longtown, as well as engaging with staff at MOD Abbey Wood. "These visits were a reminder to me about how lucky we are at In addition to sharing with you our current priorities within DE&S to have such a talented and dedicated workforce" Defence and updating you on what changes we have made There have been major and will make, to make DE&S changes in government and a great place to work, it’s also we have a new Prime Minister, a chance for you to tell us how as well as a new Secretary of we can make your role even State, Ben Wallace, and Minister better, so please do grasp this for Defence Procurement in opportunity. Anne-Marie Trevelyan. This month Desider covers Change brings new the Service of Dedication for challenges and I very much the fourth and final Tide-class look forward to working with tanker, RFA Tideforce, meaning them to continue providing the the entire Tide-class tanker fleet armed forces with the very best is ready to supply Royal Navy equipment and support. ships on operations around the August has given me the world with fuel and water. opportunity to visit some of In the Air domain, it reports our sites, two of which were that our Typhoon delivery team Devonport and Rosyth, and secured a contract worth almost Proud receive briefings of some of our £350 million with Rolls-Royce to excellent programmes and see support the engines that power our outstanding teams in action. the UK’s fleet of Typhoon As always with these fighter jets. to support visits, they were not only very And in Land, you can read informative but a reminder to about how Boxer, the key me about how lucky we are at platform intended to re-equip DE&S to have such a talented the British Army and enable the We are proud to work side by side with the men and and dedicated workforce. new Strike Brigades, has been By Sir Simon Bollom, CEO Appreciation of what we do put through its paces. was also evident across both Finally, I must mention Sarah women who keep us safe. In collaboration with our our excellent Families Days at Lougee from the Corporate partners, we are designing new ways to support the MOD Abbey Wood again this Communications and Change year, where it was fantastic to team at Abbey Wood, who has Royal Navy in the important work they do. Increasing see thousands of our employees been recognised by the Royal bring their loved ones to see Humane Society after helping productivity, reducing costs and improving quality what DE&S is all about. I know police talk down a distressed putting these on takes a huge teenager from a roof in what and safety. It’s a critical part of how we give our amount of effort so thank you to was a life-threatening situation. all of those involved in making Well done. customers more of what they need. them such a success. Enjoy the issue. Looking ahead, it’s going to Commitment where it counts. be a busy September with both DSEI and the Exec Connect Roadshows taking centre stage. DSEI is the world’s largest Defence and Security exhibition and represents an invaluable opportunity to meet with key contacts from across the entire supply chain for defence. As you can imagine my diary, like many others visiting, is incredibly busy. baesystems.com 3 Copyright © 2019 BAE Systems Image © Crown Copyright 2013 Editor: Tom Morris - 9352 37888 or 0117 9137888 [email protected]

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desider is distributed free to DE&S employees and the equipment capability organisations. Copies may be sent to readers outside MOD, including in the defence industries and is 20 published on the world wide web via GOV. UK. While the editor takes care to ensure all material produced is accurate, no liability can be accepted for errors or omissions. Views expressed in desider, and products and services advertised, are not necessarily endorsed by DE&S or the MOD. All editorial submissions must be cleared by the relevant MOD authorities.

This magazine is printed on Novatech Matt FS 100gsm which is Forest Stewardship Council certified material from well-managed forests and elemental chlorine free. 24

4 desider September 2019 Feature Contents

06 Senior Leader On the cover Comment – Vice DE&S People DE&S apprentice competing in Admiral Chris Gardner 16 First Person – annual engineering competition Commodore Martyn News Williams Photo by Jack Eckersley 26 Ian Fereday wins gold 08 First steel cut for HMS Cardiff Defence in UK Invictus Trials Minister Anne-Marie 30 60 Second Spotlight Trevelyan cuts steel on – site manager Mark second Type 26 frigate Champion 09 Typhoon delivery team 32 DE&S People – Sarah secure contract to Anderson, project power the UK’s fleet professional graduate of fighter jets 34 Jobs – Desider’s latest 14 Tom Nevard recruitment pages and Apprentices compete benefits in annual engineering competition 22 Tideforce Service of Dedication ceremony marks end of tanker acquisition programme 28 DE&S apprentices transform primary school playground Feature 12 Sarah Lougee receives Certificate of Commendation from Royal Humane Society 24 Families Days success all the hard www.gov.uk/government/publications/desider-2019 work pays off Twitter: @DefenceES Facebook: @DefenceES LinkedIn: Defence Equipment & Support YouTube: DE&S

5 desider September 2019 Senior Leader Comment

Vice Admiral Chris Gardner, Chief of Materiel (Ships), talks to Desider about his role, his ‘customer experience’ and his priorities for the months ahead

his is my first Senior Committee, I’m also acting as the Driving our continuous Leader Comment since I bridge to the customer – in our improvement underpins all these joined DE&S as Chief of We have a case the Royal Navy – and strive priorities. We need to have a more TMateriel (Ships) on 1 April 2019. I very talented to build a ‘one team’ approach to strategic mindset so that we’re suspect that, for many of you, this the way we do business. planning ahead over a longer time is also the first time you’re hearing and dedicated In my previous role as Assistant frame, with better milestones and from me, so it’s a pleasure and workforce. Chief of the Naval Staff (Ships), targets, that drive performance privilege to meet you. I was that customer and I hope and empower our teams to deliver By way of a quick introduction, Investing in that experience and insight at pace and with agility. I started my career back in 1984 our staff and helps me better understand their All of the above are our route in the Royal Navy, and have a requirements. I remain committed to achieving our vision of DE&S background as a submariner and empowering to providing the Royal Navy with @21 and delivering our three ‘Gs’ logistician, which has given me an them to take the kit and capability it needs, – great delivery, great people and operational focus. Throughout my especially now we have new ships a great place to work. career I’ve had spells within the the lead in their on the order books. I want to be Defence Procurement Agency and day-to-day able to deliver real transformation Defence Logistics Organisation, roles is vital to ensure the service is fit for the which brought me into the future. acquisition field, whilst time in I have three main areas of the MOD exposed me to complex focus for the coming months. programme management and Continuing to deliver for business transformation. the customer and driving But even with all the experience performance from industry is my I’ve built up across my 34-year first. My second is to continue to career, nothing quite prepares grow the business and improve you for the sheer size, scale and our ways of working to ensure complexity of working within we are fit for purpose in the years DE&S – the past five months have ahead. My final priority is very been a steep learning curve! much a people focused priority. The chance to take on this role We have a very talented and as Chief of Materiel (Ships) is a dedicated workforce. Investing in fantastic opportunity. While my our staff and empowering them to role is to run the Ships domain take the lead in their day-to-day and lead the business as a roles is vital if we are to become member of the DE&S Executive the organisation we aim to be.

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OSHK_JLTV_CntrlEU_Desider_FullPg.indd 1 8/5/19 4:07 PM desider September 2019 News

First steel cut for HMS Cardiff Pictured: Minister for Defence Procurement Anne-Marie Trevelyan cuts steel for HMS Cardiff (Picture by Andrew Linnett)

he first steel has been cut HMS Cardiff steel cut ceremony its weapon systems to be adapted for HMS Cardiff, the second demonstrates continuing success throughout its lifespan to counter ship in the Royal Navy’s The steel cut is another in delivering the Type 26 frigate future threats. The Type 26 benefits Tnext generation of Type 26 anti- significant milestone programme, which has already from the latest advances in digital submarine frigates. in the delivery of the seen the construction of the first technologies, including 3D and Defence Minister Anne-Marie Type 26 programme, in class, HMS Glasgow, progress virtual reality, which ensures that Trevelyan cut the steel for the UK’s a programme that is well. I am proud of this collective the ship’s design is refined earlier newest warship at a ceremony at sustaining thousands achievement by DE&S, the Royal in the process. BAE Systems’ shipyard in Govan Navy and our industry partner The first three ships, HMS of UK jobs and future on the River Clyde. BAES and its suppliers.” Glasgow, HMS Cardiff and Marking the official start of proofing our naval The cutting-edge frigates for the HMS Belfast, were ordered for build on the second of eight City capability for years Royal Navy will replace the current £3.7 billion. HMS Edinburgh, Class vessels, it also represents to come anti-submarine warfare Type 23 Birmingham, Sheffield, Newcastle another significant milestone frigates and provide advanced and London will form the second for the Type 26 programme, the Vice Admiral Chris Gardner, protection to the continuous at batch of Type 26 warships. Royal Navy, UK Defence and Chief of Materiel (Ships) sea deterrent and Queen Elizabeth The first Type 26 warship, HMS shipbuilding in Scotland. Class aircraft carriers and offer Glasgow, will enter service in the All eight Type 26 frigates will unrivalled anti-submarine warfare mid-2020s. Designed for a service be built on the Clyde, with the capability. life of at least 25 years, the Type work sustaining some 1,700 jobs in Each Type 26 will be equipped 26 frigates will serve in the future Scotland and 4,000 jobs across the with a range of capabilities, Royal Navy surface fleet into the wider UK maritime supply chain including the Sea Ceptor missile 2060s. Both Australia and Canada for decades to come. defence system, a 5-inch medium have now chosen the Type 26 Chief of Materiel (Ships), Vice calibre gun, an embarked design as the baseline for their Admiral Chris Gardner, said: helicopter, medium range radar, respective warship programmes. “Type 26 will form a key part of powerful bow and towed array The Type 26 manufacture the Royal Navy’s future balanced sonars, helicopter-launched batch 1 contract was signed in fleet, providing a core component torpedoes and a design which June 2017. This will deliver the of anti-submarine protection. makes them extremely difficult for first three ships to the Royal “The steel cut is another enemy submarines to detect. Navy and includes the necessary significant milestone in They will be designed for joint modifications to the Govan the delivery of the Type 26 and multinational operations and Scotstoun shipyards. The programme, a programme that is across the full spectrum of procurement of batch 2 will be sustaining thousands of UK jobs warfare, including complex subject to a separate approval and and future proofing our naval combat operations, counter piracy, contract which is expected to be capability for years to come.” humanitarian aid and disaster awarded in the early-2020s. Michel Holstead, Type 26 relief work. head at DE&S, added: “The Its flexible design will also allow

8 desider September 2019 News

DE&S delivery team secure contract to power the UK’s fleet of Typhoon fighter jets Pictured: An RAF Typhoon intercepting Russian Military aircraft in June this year (Picture Crown copyright)

he DE&S Typhoon delivery can fulfil its role as the UK’s main of the continued high level of team has secured a contract The DE&S Typhoon combat air platform.” commitment across the DE&S worth almost £350 million Rolls-Royce will repair and Typhoon delivery team. It is Twith Rolls-Royce to support the delivery team's maintain the Typhoon engines the teams dedication that is engines that power the UK’s fleet dedication is as required by the RAF over the fundamental in ensuring that of Typhoon fighter jets. fundamental in five-year period. They will also be the Typhoon aircraft remains the The £346.7 million contract will ensuring that the responsible for the provision of backbone of the UK's combat air provide maintenance support for Typhoon aircraft modules, spares and accessories power.” the EJ200 engine up to 2024 as the remains the backbone to support the aircraft fleet, The Typhoon force is Typhoon continues to form the including the transportation of the operationally based at RAF of the UK's combat backbone of the RAF’s fighter jet equipment between RAF bases and Coningsby, RAF Lossiemouth, the fleet. air power the Rolls-Royce manufacturing Falkland Islands, and Amari Air Already this year, RAF Typhoon Air Commodore Paul Lloyd, facility in Bristol. Base in Estonia, where the aircraft jets have led the fight against Typhoon delivery team Approximately 175 Rolls-Royce respond to potential threats to UK Daesh in Iraq and Syria as part of head jobs in Bristol, RAF Coningsby air space in quick reaction alerts. Operation Shader and undertaken in Lincolnshire, and RAF Since arriving in Estonia on 3 Baltic Air Policing mission with Lossiemouth in Moray, will be May this year, the fleet has already NATO partners, with further supported as part of the contract. scrambled 14 times in response NATO policing missions planned Air Marshal Julian Young, Chief to Russian activity over the Baltic in Iceland later this year. of Materiel (Air), said: “Typhoon Sea. Sid Hallam, EJ200 operations is a formidable, battle-winning The Typhoon fleet has benefited manager in the Typhoon aircraft and the backbone of UK from a £425 million upgrade Propulsion team, part of the combat airpower. programme over the last three Typhoon delivery team, said: “This new deal on EJ200 engine years. The fighter jets now have “The Typhoon Propulsion team is demonstrable evidence that we deep strike cruise missile Storm carry out complex, critical work remain committed to working Shadow, air-to-air missile Meteor that makes an indispensable with our industrial partners to and the precision attack missile contribution to the Eurofighter drive down support costs and at Brimstone at their disposal. The Typhoon. the same time pursue excellence RAF has also commenced trials on “Working across multiple and deliver great equipment to the Typhoon of BriteCloud, a drinks- locations the team is committed front line.” can sized missile decoy system to to making sure the EJ200 engine Air Commodore Paul Lloyd, protect combat jets from the latest meets the highest of standards, Typhoon delivery team head, radar-guided missiles. which is vital to ensure the aircraft added: “I am extremely proud

9 desider September 2019 News In Brief

DESA complete sale of C130J The Defence Equipment Sales Authority (DESA) has concluded the sale of a retired RAF C130J aircraft to the US Department of the Navy for use by the Blue Angels Air Display Team. Similar to the RAF Red Arrows display team, the Blue Angels is the US Navy's flight demonstration squadron and they perform aerial displays annually in at least 60 shows at 30 locations throughout the US. The Blue Angels formerly used a US Marine Corps Lockheed C-130T Hercules, nicknamed ‘Fat Albert’, for carrying spare parts, equipment and support personnel between shows. It would also DE&S welcomes distinguished guest open the Blue Angels’ act by flying over crowds and performing Professor Dame Julia King activities as well as its access to manoeuvres. FREng FRS, Baroness Brown of SMEs from across other sectors. Appreciating Fat Albert Cambridge, visited Abbey Wood Baroness Brown is a would need to be retired, the in her role as a member of the government advisor on US Department of the Navy Defence Innovation Advisory carbon-based fuels reduction announced they were interested Panel and the Defence Innovation and an expert in aerospace in buying a new C-130J from the Mentor to DE&S. and marine propulsion. Her RAF last year. During her visit last month interest was drawn to the solar Negotiations have now she met with DE&S CEO Sir powered High Altitude Pseudo completed and the aircraft has Simon Bollom, Director Safety Satellite Operational Concept now been sold generating a and Environment, Quality and Demonstrator programme significant return for the Front Technology Tim Rowntree, and and the use of robotic and Line Command and UK tax key innovation leads from across autonomous systems in future payers. the DE&S Domains. naval mine hunting. Peter Williamson, DESA She was briefed on several of She was interested to Air Equipment Sales team DE&S’ innovative programmes, learn about DE&S’ approach leader, said: “This aircraft sale including the Spearhead portfolio, to supporting Defence represents a superb example of and other initiatives to better experimentation and in particular the close cooperation between pull-through technology at the Army Warfighting Experiment the militaries of the United pace. Baroness Brown provided and the nano Unmanned States of America and the United insightful suggestions on how Aerial Vehicle experimentation Kingdom.” DE&S could improve its links to programme. other Government innovation

DE&S launch AWE20 alongside British Army The DE&S Technology Office James Morris, DE&S procurement decisions.” and the British Army have Technology Office, said: “While For more information visit launched the latest in the game- looking at new technology is an www.army.mod.uk/news-and- changing Army Warfighting exciting prospect, bringing new events/events/army-warfighting- Experiments (AWE) series. technologies into service can experiment/ AWE20 is looking to engage be a major business challenge. with a broad industrial base – The requirement for new skills, from large primes to one-man, training or organisational ‘garden shed’ innovators – to structures can be a real blocker to explore emerging technology in new equipment. the agile command, control and “Defence standards, test and communication space. evaluation processes or new It will push the boundaries supply chains and commercial of technology and military models all need to be considered. capability, testing a range of AWE20 will crucially provide prototype systems by putting vital insights to the Army and them in the hands of the user DE&S on the technologies while giving invaluable military and these wider issues to feedback to industry. support more informed future

10 desider September 2019 News In Brief

Wildcat missile integration trials Wildcat ZZ513 has taken to the integration rig testing earlier in and establish air carriage life. air for the first time last month in the year, flight trials will continue The FASGW programme is a twin weapon wing and launcher to gather evidence to prove being primed by DE&S, with configuration with Martlet dummy the integration of the missile integration onto Wildcat by missiles. system (including live firing to Leonardo Helicopters managed This was a significant milestone demonstrate end-to-end system through the Yeovil based Wildcat in the Future Anti Surface Guided operation), underpin system delivery team, and the Thales Weapons (FASGW) programme certification and provide a supplied Martlet missile system on it's journey to delivering the clearance for in-service use. managed by the Lightweight and FASGW light missile capability to Additionally, environmental Medium Attack Systems project the Royal Navy. data is being gathered to support team in Abbey Wood. Following full system the missile system safety assurance

Director Air Support on the road Richard Murray, Director Air the successes and issues within the Support, has visited Marshall Air Support Domain as well as an Aerospace and Defence Group update on wider DE&S initiatives. (MADG) to see their engineering Duncan said: “Our project facilities, view the C-130J Centre managers and highly skilled Wing Replacement Project and technicians and fitters were meet staff. delighted to welcome Richard and During the trip he was given show the progress they’ve made a tour of the site by Duncan in the Centre Wing Replacement. Eldridge, MADG managing Our primary focus is protecting director Military Aerospace, people in critical situations and where he saw the manufacturing providing the RAF continued facilities for the auxiliary fuel outstanding availability of their tanks for Boeing’s P-8 fuel tank C-130J fleet.” programme and other engineering support facilities. He later viewed the trial aircraft for the C-130J Centre Wing Replacement Project before meeting with DE&S staff based at the MADG site to update them on

11 desider September 2019 Feature

Sarah recognised for talking distressed teenager down from roof Pictured: Sarah Lougee receives her Certificate of Commendation from Charles Wyld, High Sheriff of Bristol (Picture submitted)

E&S employee Sarah I reassured her that help was I was given the opportunity at Lougee has been Sarah’s intervention, available, and that as long as she DE&S to train as a mental health recognised by the Royal was alive things could get better. first aider – I doubt I would have DHumane Society for talking down caring and “I told her that I believed she had the confidence to intervene in a distressed teenager from the roof compassion meant would overcome her difficulties this situation without the practical of a house. the situation was – that one day she would be able techniques I learnt on the course. Sarah, a member of the DE&S resolved safely and to draw on this situation to help “These are skills that are sorely Corporate Communications more swiftly than it people in despair and show them needed in every organisation, team, was taking her two-year-old otherwise might there is always hope. and the support people receive twin boys to soft play in South have been “Eventually I persuaded her in their times of distress can be Gloucestershire when she came to come back in off the roof. She life-changing. I would love to see a across the situation. Part of the citation from the asked to see me and gave me a big mental health first aider on every “I thought she may have been Royal Humane Society hug at the front door. We have floorplate in every workplace.” having a cigarette, but then I stayed in contact and meet up over Sarah’s training was sponsored realised she was crying and saw a milkshake to chat about how she by DE&S and provided by Mental the police car.” Sarah said. is getting on.” Health First Aid England. After calling a friend to come Sarah’s efforts were recognised Find out more at www. and look after the children she by the Royal Humane Society mhfaengland.org approached a police officer and she was presented with a already on scene to offer her help Certificate of Commendation as a trained mental health first for her selfless intervention in aider. After police agreed to her an emergency outside of work, helping, Sarah spent 40 minutes by Charles Wyld, High Sheriff of standing on the pavement building Bristol. a rapport with the 15-year-old, Part of the citation read: even introducing her to one of her “Sarah’s intervention, caring and twins and telling her about the compassion meant the situation mischief her children get up to as a was resolved safely and more distraction tactic. swiftly than it otherwise might Sarah said: “I thought if I could have been. This situation could keep her talking until the experts have potentially resulted in loss arrived, then it might be okay. of life or serious injury to the girl She opened up to me about the involved.” problems she was having, and Sarah added: “I’m so grateful

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Pictured: Apprentices from across DE&S competing at Tom Nevard (Pictures by Jack Eckersley)

14 desider September 2019 News

Apprentices shine at Tom Nevard

"Year on year we see high-flying, talented young people in this competition, proving extremely promising for the future of our workforce"

ore than 80 engineering apprentices from protected from damage. Matthew Trower (ABW across the UK gathered at the Defence apprentice) triumphed. Academy Shrivenham for the annual Tom The group project saw teams of five build their MNevard Memorial Competition. own version of the famous Second World War para The competition began in 1952 as a memorial bike constructed from scrap bicycles donated from to Mr Tom Nevard, an Assistant Secretary in the a number of sources, including Oxford City Council Labour Branch of the Ministry of Supply. The original – some of which are left chained up by departing purpose of the event was to test the practical skills students. and craftsmanship of the best apprentices from across Project management apprentices faced a series the many apprenticeship schemes in government and of challenges, including ensuring their bike could this remains the case today. withstand a drop test from a crane – emulating it The prestigious week-long event attracts being dropped from an A400M – to test the design competitors from many sides of the defence and build of their protective packaging system. community, including DE&S Abbey Wood (ABW) The simulated low velocity airdrop was carried out and Devonport, Defence Munitions Gosport and from 12 metres by the Defence School of Electronic Beith, and Porton Down. and Mechanical Engineering at RAF Lyneham, and Air Marshal Julian Young, Chief of Materiel organisers are very grateful to Sergeant Dean Lunn’s (Air), who attended in his role as MOD Defence selfless commitment to the task. Engineering Skills Champion, said: “The calibre of Team ‘Cycle Paths’, which included Christian apprentices this year was exceptional. Year on year Davock (ABW project management apprentice), we see high-flying, talented young people in this James Element (Submarine Delivery Agency degree competition, proving extremely promising for the apprentice), Jonathan Lillie (Devonport apprentice), future of our workforce.” Ramin Mosavi (ABW apprentice) and Thomas Ellis Other senior staff who attended included Daniel (ABW degree apprentice), were clear winners. Griffiths (Director Human Resources), Tim Rowntree This year again saw the Sir Henry Royce Award run (Director Engineering and Safety) and Jonathan alongside the competition, with first-year apprentices Cook (Engineering Corporate Function Manager). being asked to create an entrenching tool. They were This year saw a significant change to the awarded marks for quality of build, robustness and competition with a group of project management design features. Winner Thomas Perilli (Devonport apprentices taking an active role in the team apprentice) impressed judges with the high quality challenge. It is hoped that the competition will be yet practical finish of his folding shovel. opened to apprentices from all functions in future Philip Rotherham, DE&S Senior Apprentice years. Development Manager and competition lead, said: The competition features three awards: one “This competition has been going since 1952 and yet for individual first and second year apprentices the enthusiasm we have seen this year is unmatched. respectively, and a final award with teams of first, This competition gives them a chance to do wacky second and third-year apprentices working together things and get hand's on in the workshop – putting to meet their goal. what they have learnt into practice and giving them a Building a cross-bow with an original design was chance to get out of the office. one of the tasks for first-year apprentices. The winner “It also reminds them engineering is fun. I like was Charlie Kitchin (ABW degree apprentice), who to think we are helping create some strong working impressed with the originality of his design and relationships between the next generation of velocity of the ammunition. engineers and project managers.” Phase two second-year apprentices were tasked Winners will receive a certificate and trophy at the with building a rocket car that would ensure its Apprentice Award Ceremony held later this year. passenger, represented by an egg, was kept safe and

15 Picture: Jack Eckersley desider September 2019 DE&S People

On support, team effort and his love of beekeeping

Commodore Martyn Williams Royal Navy Head of Warship Support is responsible for the availability and combat effectiveness of all in-service warships, worldwide

What does your role involve? How are you helping embed from everyone in every role and We have a very clear mission change in your area? function for success. Focusing on in Warship Support: we support I strongly believe that the the sustainable health of the team warships. Our team is responsible change we have driven over the last and everyone in it means helping for the availability and combat few years becomes a foundation people to learn and develop, and effectiveness of all in-service Royal for consistent, predictable and progress – seeing good people Navy (RN) warships, worldwide. responsive delivery. We have grow is very rewarding. My role is to lead the team and been through two major change What do you enjoy doing in create the conditions for success. programmes recently. DE&S your spare time? transformation has allowed us What about your role is the standard ways of working that I live on Dartmoor, north of exciting, rewarding or underpin a strong programme Plymouth, and like many service interesting? and disciplined change control personnel at Abbey Wood I Firstly, everything we do has a with Navy Command. More commute weekly. Spare time is direct impact on sailors at sea on fundamentally, the transition to built around maximising my or preparing for operations, so the Common Support Model time with my family and making the linkage between our delivery across the Complex Warship the most of the fantastic natural and what the Royal Navy achieves Support Enterprise means that environment of the moor, rivers is immediate and clear, and often we have restructured the entire and coast, usually with our spaniel, on the news, in the papers and on industrial and MOD base to apply Sennen. We are walking the coastal Twitter. Following our ships on best practice with clear roles and path around Cornwall in sections, Twitter can give a very powerful responsibilities, in a consistent and this year we made Land’s End. personal understanding of their manner across all warships. We What might surprise people business and challenges. Secondly, are now very strongly pursuing a about you? it’s all about breadth: we support continuous improvement mindset After a swarm of bees chose to ships from small minehunters in everything we do. to the largest ship the Royal take up residence in our chimney Navy has ever operated, in every Why did you choose to pursue a few years ago, I took the hint and ocean in the world, with response a career in DE&S? became a beekeeper. This year has and planning timescales from As a Royal Navy engineer, my been a fantastic one for the bees, immediate operational support to career path steps between sea and I now have three hives in the six-year refit cycles. and shore roles. My career field garden, which adds up to around is capability and acquisition, 120,000 bees. It’s probably not a How important to you is which includes in-service support, coincidence that the garden has teamwork? and as a result I’ve served five also been very productive this year, My experience working in the times in DE&S or its predecessor thanks to the bees’ pollination. RN and DE&S is best summarised organisations, with other roles as This year’s honey haul is looking by one of the RN’s previous a customer of DE&S outputs. My like a bumper one and they could straplines – the team works. A first acquisition job was in the deliver around 200 jars. ship’s company only succeeds MOD (Procurement Executive) through the coordinated and in Weymouth, on the Spearfish focused effort of a very diverse Torpedo project, before Abbey group of people with specific Wood had been built. responsibilities, skills and experience. Warship Support (and What do you most enjoy about the Ships domain more broadly) your job? is the same – to succeed, we need I feel proud of the team when to succeed together. I focus on we successfully deliver to the Royal making our aim clear, what we Navy and support sailors at sea – need to achieve and helping to that’s why we come to work. I try drive learning across the broader hard to reinforce those successes team. across the whole team, because we need professional delivery

17 desider September 2019 News

Local school pupils thrive during challenging work experience at DE&S Pictured: Students from Cotham School pictured with DE&S CEO Sir Simon Bollom and Keith Woodbridge (Picture by Beth Squire)

he Typhoon team at MOD Woodbridge, Fast Air Support about how the placement has seen Abbey Wood welcomed The pupils were fun, Team Safety and Environmental greater levels of enthusiasm and a group of teenage pupils Team Leader, and a member of the confidence towards their studies Tfrom Bristol to give them a taste of imaginative, creative, MOD Abbey Wood Volunteers and future career expectations. the exciting career opportunities resourceful and Network. “Here at Cotham School we at DE&S. respectful young He said: “I first met with the regard work experience as a The 10 Cotham School students, people who did school before Christmas when fundamental part of our student’s aged 14 and 15, spent four days themselves and their I supported mock interviews development as individuals. with the team and were challenged school proud and agreed with their teaching We recognise the full value the to develop options to answer an staff that it would be great to placement has on the student’s urgent operation requirement Keith Woodbridge, Fast Air host a small number of students ability to contextualise their based around space technology. Support Team Safety and interested in Science, Technology, learning, visualise a clear pathway During this time they had Environmental Team Leader Engineering and Mathematics to success and gain employability the opportunity to meet fast jet (STEM) subjects in the Typhoon skills into the bargain.” pilots and specialist engineers and team. took part in an environmental “Six months on 10 slightly awareness quiz. nervous pupils arrived at They also learned about Abbey Wood ready for a week important safety aspects of with DE&S but went on to the business including a risk exceed our expectations. They assessment model to help prioritise delivered an innovative solution health and safety hazard control featuring a network for software measures in the workplace, and the programmers, with links to Health and Safety at Work Act. schools and universities to solve Their week at Abbey Wood the problem we posed.” culminated in an outstanding Keith added: “The Cotham presentation to Typhoon’s School pupils were fun, senior executive team, which imaginative, creative, resourceful they delivered with confidence, and respectful young people who answering a variety of challenging did themselves and their school questions. proud.” On the fifth and final day of Suzanne Paice, Cotham’s career their work experience week the leader, said: “It has been a real group visited Rolls-Royce Bristol, pleasure to collaborate with the home of Typhoon’s EJ200 engine. MOD, and I have heard so many The visit was organised by Keith positive comments from staff

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BAB_3839_DSEI_A4_GENERIC_AD_HMS_PRINT.indd 1 16/08/2019 10:47 desider September 2019 News

MIV delivery team sees Boxer put through its paces

s part of the Mechanised As seen here, the vehicles were Roddy Malone, head Land Infantry Vehicle (MIV) driven hard over the Bovington Concepts and Assessment at Programme Assessment courses over three days to DE&S, said: “These assessments, APhase being led by DE&S, two ensure the complete running which went very well, are an Boxer vehicles were put through a gear and drive trains had been important part of the forthcoming series of technical trials. exposed to the natural operating preparations, essentially The trials, at the British environmental such as mud, deep confirming some of the key in- Armoured Trials and Development water crossing, heavy dust and service supportability logistics of Unit in Dorset, were to assess their loose stones. Boxer in the Mechanised Infantry supportability and recoverability A series of repair and recovery Vehicle role.” using British Army’s in-service exercises were also carried out on repair and recovery assets. the vehicles.

20 desider September 2019 News Photo courtesy of DefencePhotography.com

21 desider September 2019 News

Tideforce ceremony marks end of MARS tanker acquisition programme Pictured: RFA Tideforce (Picture courtesy of Royal Navy)

E&S Commercially shipbuilding programme and The Service of Dedication Supported Shipping This event affords a affords a moment to reflect on at Portland Port in Dorset (CSS) staff joined Royal the vital importance of the work was attended by personnel DFleet Auxilary (RFA) and Royal moment to reflect on DE&S does to provide our armed representing the acquisition, Navy personnel for the Service the vital importance forces with the equipment and customisation and in-support of Dedication for RFA Tideforce, of the work DE&S support they need. teams in CSS. signalling the ship’s formal entry does to provide our “The MARS tanker acquisition Members of the acquisition into service and the end of the armed forces with the project pioneered a number of team are now moving on to programme to acquire the Tide- equipment and support important innovations, which the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) class tanker fleet for the UK. they need are informing current and future programme to acquire a new fleet The ceremony, on July 30, programmes and demanded a of RFA ships capable of carrying was the point at which the Vice Admiral Chris Gardner, lot from everyone involved. The stores and ammunition in support 39,000-tonne vessel, acquired DE&S Chief of Materiel team has delivered exceptional of global tasking. through the Military Afloat (Ships) results in overcoming challenges CSS Acquisition deputy head Reach and Sustainability (MARS) to ensure delivery of capability Stephen Rose said: “The FSS project, was handed over from for the Royal Navy to use on project presents an entirely new CSS to the RFA, ready to supply operations.” set of programmatic and technical Royal Navy ships on operations Head of CSS at DE&S, challenges, but the skills and around the world with fuel and David Farmer, added: “Our knowledge accumulated by the water. procurement experts performed team through the MARS project Tideforce is the fourth and final brilliantly to bring these essential are already proving invaluable. Tide-class tanker to enter service tankers to the UK and ensure they “This expertise will ensure the and, although work will continue were materially ready for service. RFA receives the world-beating in the short term to formally wrap Everyone in CSS can rightly be equipment it deserves.” up the MARS acquisition process, proud of what we achieved as a the ceremony was an opportunity team. for CSS to look back on the “As the formal acquisition wider programme’s successes and programme draws to a close, challenges. DE&S will remain highly focused DE&S Chief of Materiel (Ships), on the Tide-class as we continue Vice Admiral Chris Gardner, to support the fleet through said: “This event marks one of the £1 billion Future In Service the final milestones of this major Support programme.”

22 follow the story at kbr.com desider September 2019 Feature

Pictured: Families Days again proved a huge success (Pictures by Mark Hawke)

24 desider September 2019 Feature

Hard work pays off as Families Days thrill again

It’s been a genuine pleasure to see the enjoyment of staff and their families and to showcase both our site and the equipment we provide for the armed forces Sally Wilkins, Head of Establishment

his summer Abbey Wood Families Day saw Business manager Linda Stringer said: “We have to over 4,000 attendees come through its gates, ensure that the site can accommodate all the vehicles giving the opportunity for Operating Centres and equipment Operating Centres want to display. Tto showcase what they do in an environment of Some of the most popular exhibits are the MDP dog innovation over two hugely successful Families Days. display and the MDP police vehicles, especially when Families and friends of employees were invited to the children get to press the very loud sirens.” visit Abbey Wood on August 2 and 16 for the annual David Swan, Directorate of Engineering and Safety Families Days events, with tickets snapped up within in Land, and his team were displaying the nano hours of them going live. Black Hornet aircraft, the size of a large insect which Since 2013, DE&S has welcomed over 23,000 proved very popular. visitors on site to enjoy informative and exciting David said: “The Tech Office was, as always, displays that are facilitated and overseen by the DE&S extremely pleased to support Families Day, Infrastructure team. interacting with families to show off the exciting Sally Wilkins, Head of Establishment, said: “As projects we are delivering. It was great to be able ever, I’m delighted with the success of Families Days. to excite younger family members with the idea The tremendous efforts from the infrastructure team, of perhaps becoming DE&S engineers and project who start planning eight months prior to the event, managers in the future.” ensured that people could arrive, enjoy and learn all Simon Edwards, Ship Acquisition Business about the work we do at DE&S. It’s easy to forget just Manager said: “I always enjoy Families Day, it’s great how much work goes into Families Day and without to share with others what we do and inspire the all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes, younger visitors. This year we demonstrated some of none of it would have been possible.” the virtual reality technology that is transforming the This year saw 81 exhibitors across the way warships are designed. It was a great opportunity Neighbourhoods and for the first time there were to show people some of the cutting-edge technology exhibitors in the SI Suites due to the demand. being employed on our new Type 26 frigate Rosette Venvell, Business Continuity manager and programme. Now I’ve got children of my own, I’ve Families Day organiser, said: “Families Days have loved bringing them along. There’s so much for them become an institution over the last few years and we to do and they’re very excited to see where their dad start preparing for the events in January. We work works. The climbing wall, birds of prey, and the photo very closely with Amey Defence Services, who are booth are always a hit.” integral to the successful outcome of Families Days.” Head of Establishment Sally Wilkins added: Activities that were on offer this summer included “Thank you to all the teams who contributed to this making aeroplane models, a javelin simulator, nature event to make it such a great success again. It’s been on site, design your own Royal Fleet Auxiliary a genuine pleasure to see the enjoyment of staff and ship, high tech velocity training simulator, hoop a their families and to showcase both our site and the basketball, aeroplane landing challenge, bottle rockets equipment we provide for the armed forces.” and interactive science, orienteering courses, radio exercise, beat the goalie inflatable and many other exciting activities. Wherever you looked there was something impressive for you to see, take part in or eat – a grand total of 4,750 burgers, hot dogs and veggie burgers were eaten this year!

25 desider September 2019 DE&S People

Ian wins gold medal in UK Invictus Trials

aritime Combat Support the first time we’d met and played competitors from 19 nations take In-Service Delivery as a team. We didn’t lose a game part. Applications will be reviewed manager Ian Fereday all day. by Help For Heroes, the Royal Mtook part in the UK Invictus trials “We were learning the rules British Legion and the MOD and in Sheffield this summer along as we went along but the crowd Ian is sitting tight to find out if he’s with 350 other wounded, injured cheered us right through to secured a place in the archery and and sick veterans, and serving the nail-biting finish where we wheelchair basketball team. personnel. managed to steal a win with a final Ian, who served in the RAF, first penalty basket.” got a taste for sport in 2018 – a As well as earning the team a year after he underwent a kidney coveted gold medal it also gives transplant which resulted in him them the chance to apply for the being medically discharged from Invictus Games in 2020. the armed forces. “Considering this was the first On that occasion he travelled to time I, and some of my team the British Transplant Games in mates, had ever played basketball, Birmingham, where he competed it’s fair to say the team did in archery, ten-pin-bowling, darts, extremely well”, Ian said. javelin and a 5km run. He added: “It’s not about “I really enjoyed the sense of winning gold medals but how belonging and it was my first real sports is aiding us all in our taste of high-level competitive recovery. The support has been sport”, Ian said. fantastic and it really has felt like Whilst visiting Tedworth House we are one big family. It’s been so in Wiltshire as part of a recovery inspiring to be part of the team.” programme, his friends and family The 2020 Invictus Games will encouraged him to apply for the be held in The Hague in The UK Invictus trials. Netherlands from May The Invictus Games are 9 to 16. It will fundamentally about recovery, see 500 using the power of sport to support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for wounded, injured and sick Service personnel and veterans. “I had been inspired by my time at the British Transport Games so I decided to fill in the 11 page application for the Invictus games”, said Ian. After hundreds of applications had been reviewed, Ian was delighted to find out he had been successful. And wanting to give a couple of new sports a go, Ian opted to take part in wheelchair basketball and discus. Ian managed to achieve a total distance of 13.34 metres in the discus – a real triumph, especially as this was the first time he had participated in the event since he was at school. Following that success, Ian went on to be part of the winning mixed basketball team, picking up a gold medal alongside his seven team-mates. Ian said: “That morning was

26 Picture: Jack Eckersley Picture:

desider September 2019 News

DE&S apprentices transform primary school playground Pictured: The apprentices who took part in the project (Picture submitted)

E&S Advanced successfully obtained a grant from play, as well as 'be'.” Engineering Management the North Yard Trust. The new play area was officially What the apprentices apprentices from HMNB Julie Catterall, apprentice opened by Captain Andy Price, DDevonport have used their scheme manager (Phase 1) at the new Captain of HMNB have provided engineering skills, creativity DE&S, said: “The apprentices were Devonport, who said: “This for us at Keyham and enthusiasm to transform a responsible for all aspects of the imaginative, wonderful, colourful Barton is a beautiful local primary school's concrete project including construction, end-product is another great space to support playground into a green oasis. ordering and updating the example of the local community our community's Keyham Barton Catholic customer. working together to make a emotional well-being Primary school was chosen as “To their credit, they completed difference. Everyone should be a community project for Phase the project within budget, within justly proud of their input.” Shelly England, 1 apprentices who worked to the two-week timeframe and to a Phase 1 apprentice Briony Head teacher develop the playground by turning very high standard.” Hall, who was one of the project it into an inviting, bright learning The completed playground area managers, said: “It was great to space. now has Astro-turf surface, a living put the engineering skills learnt The school wanted to bring wall consisting of fabric holders at college into practice in such a colour and nature into the area for each child to grow their own beneficial way for others.” so high on head teacher Shelly plants, a tractor tyres seating England’s ‘wish list’ was Astro turf area, a sand pit and a colourful and a living wall – a self-sufficient glockenspiel type instrument made vertical garden attached to the from waste pipes. exterior or interior of a building. The school greatly appreciated The apprentices were split into the apprentices' efforts. two groups, each with a project Head teacher Ms England manager and deputy. Each team said: “What the apprentices have came up with ideas and presented provided for us at Keyham Barton them to the school’s head for is a beautiful space to support our consideration. community's emotional well- With no specific budget, the being. teams produced three budget “Thanks to the expertise and options: low, medium and no creativity of these engineers, and expense spared. Once the head a generous grant from the North teacher had decided which options Yard Trust, our school now has a she liked she applied for and place where children can learn and

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J400127_DSEI03_Advert_210x297_2019.indd 1 11/07/2019 15:51 desider September 2019 DE&S People

60 second spotlight "I once escorted the TV gardener Charlie Dimmock around DM Gosport dressed as Pudsey Bear – all in the aid of charity"

25 years. I also play badminton, racketball and tennis. Outside of Mark sport I am involved with the local election process as a presiding Champion officer, a verification supervisor Job: and a count supervisor.

Site Manager at DM Gosport What are you most proud of?

Your route into DE&S? My proudest moment was being at the birth of my son Luke on I have worked in the Civil Service New Year’s Eve – it was an for 40 years, joining the Royal incredible experience and the Naval Armament Depot Gosport best fancy-dress party ever. in 1979 as a junior stores trainee. I was in an operating theatre I’ve also held office as a non- wearing scrubs, a bandana and mechanical examiner, the original green wellies and looking just like depot photographer (in the days a surgeon. I am also very proud when black and white photos of my fund-raising efforts to were processed in a darkroom), support BBC Children in Need, and the IT network manager for Macmillan, the Harbour Cancer a network of 10 Commodore Trust and the Royal British computers with 5.25 floppy Legion. I have helped raise in drives. I’ve been a logistic excess of £30,000 to date. planning manager, the customer service manager, the general If you were sent to a desert munitions business manager, the island, what three things property manager and finally the would you take with you? site manager. A mobile phone so I could order Your claim to fame? food from Ocado! No, seriously, I think I’d have to take sunscreen, In the early 2000s, I helped to insect repellent and a big knife manage the annual Gosport for hunting and/or protection. Waterfront Music Festival. My role was to manage the “green What irritates you the most? once escorted the TV gardener room” and this resulted in Charlie-Dimmock around DM greeting the bands, managing People who drive in the middle Gosport dressed as Pudsey their food and drink requests lane on a motorway, oblivious Bear (pictured right) - all in the and escorting the likes of Slade, that the inside lane is totally aid of charity. Nazareth, Showaddywaddy, The empty! Also, tradespeople that Drifters and Boney M onto the drive large vans and park them main stage. outside homes on kerbs.

Your advice to anyone? What is your favourite place in the world? Remain active and positive, Do you or always be willing to accept I haven’t necessarily got a new challenges, build positive favourite place in the world; someone you relationships and never think ‘it’s however, I have enjoyed visiting know deserve not my job.’ I think it’s important Canada, the former Yugoslavia, to be grateful for what you the Canary Islands and the their 60 seconds have and above all enjoy life to Costa del Sol. in the spotlight? the full – many don’t get that opportunity. What would surprise people Email about you? [email protected] What do you do when you’re I gained a bronze, silver, gold away from work? and honours in personal survival I play golf and have managed the and then a bronze medallion in Depot Golf Society for the past life saving when I was 14. I also

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An honoured guest, a worthy walk and inspiring youth by the sea

The Business Support Group within the DE&S Weapons Operating Centre raised £1,900 money for Macmillan cancer support by walking the 10 miles from Bradford-on-Avon to Bath. The Bishop of Bristol visited the great project teams we have The walk was particularly poignant as each member MOD Abbey Wood to meet staff in DE&S, delivering equipment for of the team know someone who has been affected by and learn more about the work our soldiers, sailors and airmen, cancer. we do to support the armed and the team in Defence Support Hilary Perry said: “When the plans for the walk were forces. Chain Operations and Movements announced I knew I would have to start a training regime As well as meeting project teams, supporting operations around the to walk such a long distance, as I am the first to admit I the Right Reverend Vivienne Faull world.” drive my car whenever I can. also took the opportunity to speak Bishop Vivienne added: “It was “I walked to and from work which is four miles a day with DE&S Christian Network. both fascinating and inspiring to whenever I could and started to get value for money Lieutenant General Paul Jaques, visit Abbey Wood and meet a small from my gym membership by taking to the treadmill most Chief of Materiel (Land), who number of the many thousands of weekends. I was able to finish the walk with few after hosted the visit, said: “We are a civil servants and military staff who effects and felt a great sense of achievement”. major employer in Bristol and it is work there to support HM Forces. Julie Keyse, the Business Support Group team leader, so important for us to look out to The pride, motivation and team- added: “It was a really fun day, has done wonders for our wider community, as well as working were obvious. Thank you team morale as well as raising money for a really worthy to the armed forces we support. to all those who made the visit so cause.” I was proud to show her some of memorable.” The team would like to thank everybody who sponsored them.

DE&S Phase 1 engineering – and were challenged to make management apprentices from the device float horizontally or HMNB Devonport attended vertically between two lines. an event aimed at inspiring For the lighthouse challenge, young people about Science, students were tasked with Technology, Engineering and creating an electrical circuit. The Mathematics (STEM). final activity was completing the The apprentices went to Buzz Wire challenge, designed the stunning Art Deco Lido in the shape of a submarine on Plymouth Hoe, which and constructed at college by was turned into an open-air apprentices. laboratory for the two-day Big Plymouth City Council`s STEM Splash STEM event part of the consultant Tina Brinkworth said: ‘STEM Spectacular’ “The MOD/DE&S stands and DE&S apprentices engaged activities were amazing – and students with activities relating the students were so engaged. to marine engineering, including Your STEM ambassadors are buoyancy and propulsion in such inspirational role models – submarines and how a light in a they all did a fantastic job.” lighthouse works. Students were given a drinking straw and Blu-tac – to represent a submarine/ballast

32 desider September 2019 DE&S People

the MOD Lottery Focusing on safety May MOTTO winners and the environment £10,000 Stephen Roberts, Bicester As part of the continuing Understanding system safety, £2,500 Joanne Davies, Blackpool embracement of a robust safety appreciation of risk assessment and £1,000 Christopher Lambert, Digby culture, safety awareness and learning from experience in the coal personal development, engineers mining industry, the ability to draw £500 Sally White-Hall, Camberley within the DE&S Unmanned Air parallels with aviation safety was £250 Chloe Graham, London System team organised a day visit evident. £100 Moira Galletly, Salisbury to the Big Pit National Coal Museum The day was very thought provoking Louise Roostan, London in Wales. and an enjoyable experience to aid the Throughout the day the engineers continued development of safety within Maria Randall, Bristol enjoyed two tours, along with team the team. Martha Williams, Fareham briefings and presentations. One tour The Big Pit National Coal Museum Maria Parkinson, Plymouth was underground in a retired working is an industrial heritage museum in coal mine which is now an interactive Blaenavon, Torfaen, South Wales. A Joanna O’Daly, Devonport museum. working coal mine from 1880 to 1980, Paul Brake, Corsham The tours provided an interactive, it was opened to the public in 1983. Deborah Fry, Feltham thought-provoking experience which The site is dedicated to operational enabled the team to understand, preservation of the Welsh heritage of Alistair Rankin, Scotstoun consider and evaluate hazards, control coal mining, which took place during Graeme Slaymaker, Bristol measures and mitigations implemented the Industrial revolution. Derek Day, Corsham within the mining industry. Simon Graham, Liverpool Kelly Carruthers, Lichfield Helen Chambers, York Kathryn Thomson, Glenrothes David Dowgill, Shawbury Joanne McGee, Blackpool Stanley Lumley, Menwith Hill Louise Bradshaw, Wyton Michele Steele, Telford

Staff from DE&S Yeovil headed that occurred 75 years ago off the experience and practicing skills, but to Burton Bradstock in Dorset en coast of Dorset, before a minute’s it also provides a highly effective way masse to take part in a hugely silence was observed. to build relationships within teams in a successful Beach Cleaning Day. Louise said: “Volunteering is great totally different environment from the The large-scale team building event for individual development, broadening office.” was open to all DE&S personnel and teams located on site at Yeovil and was supported by Head of Establishment Brigadier Darren Crook. Organised by Sarah Colley and Louise Stevens from the Wildcat Business Management team, the event saw staff embark on a sweep of the beach, collecting discarded and washed up material whilst also completing data collation. The event at Hive Beach was also organised to coincide with Volunteering Week and the 75th Anniversary of the D Day landings on beaches in Normandy. As such, the day kicked off with a briefing from Brigadier Crook on the build up to D-Day and the key events

33 desider September 2019 Recruitment Case

Study to take on more project management qualifications – I am enrolled to sit the APM (G) Project Planning Sarah Anderson, project professional and Control course soon. graduate within DE&S, gives her What do you most enjoy about your job? insight into some of the benefits of I love getting to speak to the people who use the kit we procure. I recently attended project trials and this working for the organisation was a great opportunity to get the opinions of troops. The work of the survivability team is closely linked to the end user, and this ability to physically see the benefits of our work really inspires me.

Name: What’s your ambition? Sarah Anderson I aspire to achieve chartership as a project manager.

Job title: What’s your greatest achievement in your role to Project Professional Graduate – project manager date? in Soldier, Training and Special Programmes I presented at the Blast Injury Conference at Imperial (Dismounted Close Combat-Survivability) College London, in front of around 250 experts in the field. I presented on the work we do in Survivability, How long have you worked for DE&S? highlighting the link between the research that many Two years. of the scientists in the room were responsible for, and how this forms requirements for our projects. Why did you choose to pursue a career in DE&S? I felt a career in DE&S would offer me a varied job Why would you recommend DE&S to others as a with new challenges, as well as qualifications and great place to work? training. At DE&S I get to work with people with a wide set of skills and backgrounds. This is really helpful in What does your role entail? boosting your own development, as you can learn so A project manager (PM) is known as the ‘conductor much just from the people who sit around you. The of the orchestra’. This means that a PM must bring freedom to attend various conferences and training together all the functions within the project team, is something that really appeals to me. There is a real to ensure the objectives of the project are met. This push to continually learn in your role, no matter your requires complex stakeholder engagement, and level, and I think this is incredibly important. communication skills are key. What are the social benefits of working for DE&S? What are the opportunities to develop and I moved to Bristol from Aberdeen, not knowing progress within your function? much about Bristol or knowing anyone here. Coming I came in on a graduate scheme. This has allowed in as part of a graduate scheme was incredibly me to work in three different placements, in project beneficial, as I immediately had a network of 50 controls and management. This has given me a broad people in the same boat as me. Two years on and grounding in the two functions, essential for career that network is definitely still ongoing. This can be development. During the scheme, I have completed incredibly useful for support at work, but I have also several training courses, including achieving my made some really close friends that I regularly see Association for Project Managers (APM) Project outside of work. Management Qualification. Looking forward, I wish

34 Picture: Jack Eckersley Picture:

SIX GREAT REASONS TO WORK FOR DE&S

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