BusinessThursday February 13 2014 Insight

On the front line Reserve Forces move into winning position

Only a game? University courses kick off the serious business of football 2 Thursday February 13 2014 | the times Business Insight Welcome Marching in a new Players enter direction There is a military stage right for theme to this edition of Business Insight. Firstly, we consider how the military is interacting with businesses as it strives to new ball game grow the UK’s Reserve

Force and we speak with tion of Hearts group are hoping for the Our traditional notions of football have been same outcome at Tynecastle. Colonel AK Miller, one For League One side Rangers, howev- of the men tasked with dramatically changed. Today this multi-billion er, financial mismanagement led to liqui- pound industry is as much about theatre as dation, and the SFA ultimately transfer- constructing bridges ring membership to new company Sevco sporting achievement. UCFB chief executive Scotland, now renamed The Rangers between the military and Football Club Ltd. Not that this business Philip Wilson explains all to Ginny Clark metamorphosis has any real significance employers. for the club’s core customers, the fans, for As greater numbers of whom Rangers is and always has been, Rangers. former service personnel ootball may well be a decisions. Often, the wrong decisions.” Wilson, a lifelong Liverpool fan, says funny old game, but as Football is not an easy industry to pi- all of these stories of football struggle are heading to, or are back a global multi-billion geon hole. The Deloitte Football Money and success simply demonstrate how pound industry, it’s League last month showed the big two the game is an economic, social and on civvy street, we look clearly a booming busi- clubs in Europe remain Real Madrid and sporting phenomenon. However, with a at the MOD’s successful ness. Like any indus- Barcelona, with last season’s revenues of love for this game exceeded only by his try, however, there are £518.9 million and £482.6 million respec- desire to see it survive and evolve, Wilson Career Transition Part- major players and small tively leaving the UK’s top two Manches- says to succeed in this business, one that Philip Wilson is chief terriers, and all of these ter United and Manchester City chasing supports more than 100,000 jobs in the executive of the UFCB nership (CTP) which clubs are immersed in in fourth place on £423.8 million and sixth UK, it’s essential to understand football has been established to a balancing act of attempting to match on £316.2 million. It’s broadcast money involves an element of paradox. Ftheir level of ambition with the reality of that makes the difference here, with Scot- “There is a history of some people get- match service leavers with their business potential. tish champions Celtic just hitting the top ting involved in football clubs without This evolving and dynamic business 40 on £75.8 million. Yet there are other due diligence,” he says. “The fact is, to employers. sector increasingly relies on a new breed ways of defining what makes a ‘big’ club, own a football club these days you need of administrative and management oper- with Celtic attracting average crowds to be a billionaire not a millionaire. If We also take a tour ators, with even the most local of sport- of around 47,000 and Rangers roughly they were acquiring any other kind of ing organisations unable to sustain their 46,000, similar levels to many of those in business they would send in a team to around the UFCB in existence by occasional injections of cash; the top 20. Yet for some clubs, the battle is carry out due diligence on their potential Burnley and Wembley, a hard-headed decisions, rather than those not about reaching the peak of the money investment, yet when it comes to buying fuelled by the emotion of allegiance and league, it can be about survival. a club it’s essentially an emotional deci- unique university which tribalism, are essential. In Scotland, clubs such as League sion. People often don’t realise what they Professor Philip Wilson, chief execu- One Dunfermline and Premiership side are getting into. It’s a huge commitment. offers degrees in the tive of UCFB, a trustee of Burnley FC Hearts faced a slide into administration, If you put £10 million into a club at the Community Trust and a visiting profes- played out against a backdrop of ration- end of a season, you’ll need another £10 business of football . sor in management at Bucks New Uni- alisation as football comes to terms with million at the start of the next one — or versity, has a solid piece of advice, not the need to drive down wages, and live you risk losing that first £10 million.” COVER & ALL SERVICES PICTURES: CROWN COPYRIGHT just for his own sports industry students, ‘within its means’. Wilson, the proud owner of a season but for anyone thinking of investing their Dunfermline were lifted out of admin- ticket at Anfield since 1985, is a founder time or money in football. istration in a rescue by their own fans, of UCFB at Turf Moor, having himself Inside ... “Never work for the club you sup- with supporters group Pars United now graduated with an MBA in Football In- port, you will end up making emotional the majority shareholders. The Founda- dustries from the University of Liver- Winning game A look at tactics inside the University College of Football Business Page 4 The big business of football is more important than the sum of its many parts

Special Report o many people in Scotland effect locally of Inverness Caledonian We examine the new reservists This is a sport that football is a way of life. It can Thistle in reaching the Scottish League and the advantages to both the speaks to the heart consume the passion of sup- Cup Final is a perfect example. Services and business Page 5 porters of all clubs, from grass As Minister for Commonwealth of communities roots to the professional level, Games and Sport I am aware Scottish The Times Business Forum Tacross the country. And for the many football has its problems. Like any other Experts gather to discuss the and needs our players, managers, coaches, administra- business, expenditure and investment impact of the Future Reserces support, writes tion and match-day staff, who rely on is driven by economic conditions, so (2020) Review Page 7 the clubs being run responsibly, it really it is no surprise some clubs struggle Shona Robison is their way of life. to balance the books. It is, however, a The new front line The Scottish government recognises terrific testament to those who run clubs A key programme is helping the important role football, and indeed successfully they manage to do just that. service leavers find jobs in other sports, clubs plays in our everyday In a country this size clubs are often the the civilian market Page 8 lives; how the mood and, indeed, the hub of the community and that is why aspirations of a community can be the Scottish government has provided Shona Robison MSP buoyed by results on the pitch. The our senior clubs with half a million the times | Thursday February 13 2014 3 Business Insight

Answers in scrums and sums What does a Warrior have in common huge impact. Through our research, with a wind farm? The answer, accord- we have demonstrated the data can ing to management scientists from the be used to accurately predict how they University of Strathclyde, is the potential would perform in different physical for improved performance. tests, providing coaches with valuable Researchers Matthew Revie and Kevin information on the physical potential of Wilson worked with Glasgow Warriors to players.” analyse the huge range of data collated This is just one of a number of pro- on each player to tailor their individual jects carried out at the university that training regimes. aim to support industry in using data “Technology now allows us to gather better. Dr Wilson adds: “The method- so much data we can begin to develop ologies have also been applied to a wide insight about future performance based range of other fields, such as predicting on historical observations,” says Dr failures in offshore wind farms or water Revie. “For a sporting organisation such treatment sites, better understanding as Glasgow Warriors, that can range of marketing impact using social media, from in-game data, to GPS training data and managing supply chains better to and even data on sleeping habits of the minimise disruption to services. players. However, to date, this data has “The tools we use are inherently largely been underutilised. cross-disciplinary and have huge poten- “We can use that information to tial going forward — for rugby players increase performance in a field where and the public.” the smallest of differences can have Ginny Clark

be a game of cat and mouse. Yet there football as a sports and entertainment are positives from this relationship. Fans business. He says: “Before any game gets are unique customers, we know they are under way it requires the co-ordination tribal, and there is an elasticity to their from several market sectors such as fi- demand, for a fan is always an optimist. nance, law, media, marketing, human re- If their side loses 3-0 on a Saturday, they sources, supply chain management and always think: ‘We’ll win next weekend.’. logistics. Fans are hugely important, yet These customers will always come back you can’t have the tail wagging the dog. for more, they’ll always turn up.” “Football has become like theatre, it’s Wilson is determined that this level of entertainment. We can no longer cling loyalty should be rewarded by a quality on to the idea that it’s simply about of resource vital for nurturing modern sporting competition.”

PROFESSIONAL BRIEF

pool. He argues that many clubs outside their fans will go a long way to defining a small football elite have yet to come and determining their ambitions. to terms with the fact that the modern “Different clubs have different ap- game has increasingly moved into the proaches to their fans,” says Wilson. arena of sports entertainment, and that “The top 10 clubs in the Premier League Winning with Analytics recognising this is crucial to their own will have a completely different business sporting development. model from those in the lower leagues, s rugby fans around the world sit MD Andrew “I think you first have to ask the ques- who rely on their supporters for revenue. down to watch the RBS 6 Nations Poppleton, of tion: ‘What is a football club?’,” he says. Top leagues can afford to be a bit more AChampionship, their experience Accenture, “Is it a business like any other, with distant, with only around 30 per cent of is no longer limited to just the tv screen. whose app is shares to buy and sell, or a community their revenue from their fans, and the in- With an explosion in the use of mobile transforming organisation where the owners are mere- vestment from their sponsors is more im- devices, there is an official mobile app to rugby for its ly museum curators for the next genera- portant. Sponsorship is part of the mod- access news updates, video highlights and many fans tion? If you were to ask all the clubs in ern game at every level, but the further up-to-the-minute scores and commentary Scotland from the Premiership to the down the leagues you go, getting people You have to ask: as fans follow the action. Lowland League, or from the Premier through the gate is vital to a club’s sur- By overlaying analytics to filter and League to the Conference in England, vival. The club is the town and the town what is football? collate match data, fans now also have on tweaks to produce a score for each you will get a whole variety of different is the club. greater insight into each game with player that shows how well they are play- answers. It is a very strange and unique “No matter what league their club is Is it a business unique match, player and team informa- ing. This analysis typically runs just one business.” in, however, fans will always feel they tion and statistics streamed and shared minute behind the on-pitch action. Of course, one of the key business dif- have the right to demand success, and like any other or through all social media platforms. Not unlike businesses, identifying ferences with a football club in how it can sometimes have the collective ca- Last year, the app, created by Accen- performance strengths and weaknesses manages the organisation and its financ- pability to put pressure on a board, per- a community ture in three languages, was downloaded and nurturing skills is critical to sport. So, es is the role of their customers, the sup- haps to spend money they don’t have. more than 750,000 times in 80 coun- too, is discovering new talent. While cur- porters. Indeed, a club’s relationship with So managing the fans’ expectations can organisation? tries. This year the digital experience rent players are a known entity and teams is enhanced using tools such as data have the control over which metrics can visualisation to show how games were be captured and the depth of analysis played out over the 80 minutes. that can be undertaken, the identifica- The app is an essential element of how tion of new players provides more of an The big business of football is more important than the sum of its many parts the Championship engages with its fans analytical challenge. Two options exist: and is fundamental to how itdevelops and the purchase of a known entity, which pounds to develop community engage- Supporters Direct (Scotland) is helping builds its audience. commands a high price, and the purchase ment programmes that cover health, supporters groups and owners to better At a professional level, statistics are not of a rookie with potential that comes with youth employability, crime reduction, understand each other and clubs reap new to rugby or any sport, but over the a lower price. The role of analytics is to education and physical activity. the benefits of greater fan representa- past decade sports have taken analytics identify that potential, reduce the risk Football often attracts difficult to tion. Recent proposals on fan ownership to heart, using its tools to bring a more of a poor performer and give the benefit Our economies reach groups, as the success of the have sparked debate on the wider issue scientific approach to tactics and player of a lower overhead. As the boundaries Football Fans in Training programme of running a successful club but we need management. In this fiercely competi- between sports and business blur, one and communities shows, and once people start to get to build a consensus on the models and tive world the use of analytics is quickly of the most interesting developments is involved with the club they tend to gain ideas that will provide the very best way becoming a prerequisite for success. that analytics are moving from being a deserve clubs more confidence and feel part of a com- forward for football in Scotland. As Official Technology Partner to retrospective to a future-looking tool. munity. Clubs should be applauded for Football is big business and our the RBS 6 Nations, we provide detailed Analytics are the key to the effective use that deliver more becoming more engaged in community economy and our communities need and statistics, consisting of hundreds of rows of data across sport, the business of sport activities that bring social, economic and deserve successful clubs that deliver a lot of information for every action, by every and indeed businesses the world over. than just results sporting benefits. Community ownership more than just results on the pitch. player, on the pitch. A team of analysts Andrew Poppleton is managing director of clubs is also on the increase. Funding Shona Robison is Scottish government Min- then use algorithms based on observed for Accenture’s technology business in the on the pitch provided by the Scottish government to ister for Commonwealth Games and Sport statistical relationships alongside hands- UK and Ireland 4 Thursday February 13 2014 | the times Business Insight Education

have a repertoire of forward-thinking ad- visors supporting us. UCFB is in a strong- er position to offer something unique to students — a dynamic learning environ- Talk tactics with the ment and one which enables our under- graduates to build both their knowledge of the industry and their career prospects, with rare access to the support of industry experts,” says Wilson “The opportunity to be taught by a top-class industry profes- best in the business sional such as Neil Doncaster, who was also Chief Executive at Norwich City for nearly a decade, is an exciting opportuni- ty to enhance our students’ personal and professional development. The industry needs graduates with these qualifi cations and work-based experiences as a way of improving best practice and standardisa- tion across the football business and sur- rounding industries.” As part of their degree, UCFB students are placed in the context of a director or senior management team member, where they have to assess sports situations and make decisions and judgements in a real life context. UCFB not only offers degrees, lecture series, workshops and executive speakers as part of its approach to higher educa- tion, it is actively involved with organisa- tions such as the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), SPFL, English Premier League, English FA, Umbro, BBC Sport, and Sky Sports. With around 15 million people in Eu- rope working in the sports industry, Wil- son believes the qualifi cations on offer at UCFB will prepare students for dynamic careers in a thriving global industry. “We offer something unique. Nor- mally a degree involves an academic programme and is recognised by a bit of paper, but we do continuous assessment over three years, involving our students in work experience from SPFL to Hong Philip Wilson and his Kong. Our students will become indus- team now also oversee try quality practitioners, who not only the UCFB’s operations achieve a degree but a network of unri- at Wembley Stadium valled contacts and practical experience,” he says. ognises the organisation’s growth and the The degrees on offer at UCFB include The undergraduates signing up for the positive contribution it makes. football business and fi nance, football The institution has also strengthened business and media, international foot- innovative courses at the UCFB can expect its advisory board, with the appointment ball business and a range of wider sports a thorough grounding in all aspects of of two leading industry fi gures. Mike degrees, including sports psychology and Phelan, former assistant manager of Man- stadium event management. football industry, reveals Ginny Clark chester United who worked alongside Sir Wilson, who is a founder of UCFB, and Alex Ferguson, and English FA’s Director gained his MBA in Football Industries of National Game and Women’s Foot- from the University of Liverpool, says he ball Kelly Simmons join the expert team was determined to create an ethos for the he UCFB launched in fessional development. The industry has which already includes Neil Doncaster, institution where each student is put at the 2011 and its facilities welcomed us with open arms, with best Chief Executive of the Scottish Profes- centre of everything UCFB does. overlook the Burnley in class skills on offer plus executive edu- sional Football League (SPFL), journalist “UCFB provides best-in-class academic Turf Moor stadium, cation programmes for those already in and political aide Alastair Campbell and education in traditional degree subjects, ensuring its students football who want to improve their skills.” Brian Barwick, former chief executive of which gives each student the skills, capa- are surrounded by and Now in its fourth recruiting year, UCFB the English FA. “We’re incredibly lucky to bilities and knowledge to work within the immersed in the eve- has extended its operation to Wembley football business and surrounding indus- ryday operation of a Stadium in response to increasing demand tries,” he says. football club. Although for its facilities. Students arriving in Sep- Become part of the team “We have respected fi gures from the coaching and some tember will have the opportunity to work football business on our Advisory Board, football studies are on offer elsewhere, with Wembley’s partners and study in UCFB Burnley and Wembley already the interest has been developing our curriculum and teaching TUCFB believes it is the fi rst in the world classrooms overlooking the famous pitch. off ers a range of degree courses, extremely high. in our lecture theatres. Partner organi- to set out a specifi cally tailored business UCFB currently brings millions of including Football Business and Undergraduates at UCFB sations are not only responsible for de- management degree. pounds worth of investment to Burnley Finance; Football Business and Burnley and Wembley have livering unrivalled insights in seminars “For 146 years of its 150-year history, and the borough of Brent and will con- Marketing; Football Business and the opportunity to study in but they also provide access to work football has had very little in terms of pro- tinue to do so bring with the launch of its Media; International Football the unique setting of a football placements that give students invaluable viding the education and training needed Wembley campus. In addition to the boost Business; Sports Business and stadium and gain valuable practical experience as they develop their by the sector,” says Professor Philip Wil- to the economy driven by undergraduates Coaching; Sports Business and hands-on work experience at the CVs. son, Provost & Chief Executive of UCFB, studying and living in the area, UCFB is Sports Law; Sports Business, same time. They are supported “Despite the changing economic cli- a trustee of Burnley FC Community Trust also making a massive contribution to the Retailing and Merchandising; and mentored on a daily basis mate, football is a robust industry. Look and a visiting professor in management at regeneration of Burnley and Brent and Sports Psychology and Manage- by some of the biggest and most back 100 years and compare the top 100 Bucks New University. has undertaken the refurbishment of two ment and Stadium and Events iconic names in footballing, busi- football clubs with the top 100 businesses “We are changing that now. Kick-off in landmark buildings in Burnley — trans- Management. ness and sporting history. in the UK — most of those clubs are still this game is a week before, a month be- forming them into halls of residence. The UCFB Burnley is now in its Applications to UCFB can be here, but the same can’t be said for the fore, a year before a match, so it’s a mas- college is also committed to continued third year, with the number of made through the normal UCAS businesses. sive undertaking. Every market sector growth with a strong focus on job crea- applicants, including female process or alternatively contact “UCFB brings together clubs, sponsors, interacts with football. So jobs within this tion, generating crucial income for local undergraduates, increasing the Student Recruitment and and new initiatives in higher education to industry increasingly require a combina- businesses and people. each year. Admissions Off ice on 0843 208 develop and promote graduate employ- tion of graduate qualifi cations, practical It is also a member of GuildHE, one of UCFB Wembley will take its 2222, email: studentenquiries@ ability for our students. These are trans- work experience, business imagination two renowned representative bodies for first students in September and ucfb.com or visit www.ucfb.com ferrable skills that can be applied to wider and a commitment to continuing pro- Higher Education in the UK, which rec- industries outside football and sport.” the times | Thursday February 13 2014 5 Business Insight

Special feature: The New Reserves

There is now more emphasis being made not just on increasing the number of reservists but also engaging fully with their employers

Aim is to rise to challenges by changing employer focus

tended time while on active service might sion in all of this and also impressed on A consultation paper on the future of the place on businesses, especially small and people in the military who had not really medium-sized enterprises in Scotland appreciated the employer perspective — Reserve Forces in the UK has seen a concerted who are emerging from battles of their and the Services repay that by providing move to engage more productively with their own after the worst recession in living the reservists with transferable skills that memory. give some payback to the employer.” off-duty employers, writes Rick Wilson “Generally speaking, much better dia- The prospect of someone leaving a logue is being nurtured with employers company for an extended period can be and, if there are diffi culties, these can be challenging. However, Col Miller says hange is in the air for tribution to the consultation paper and overcome,” he says. there are specifi c measures, such as fi - the armed forces — subsequent white paper. Col Miller, who Brigadier Paul K Harkness, Comm- nancial incentives, to SMEs: “Employers and has been since was awarded the CBE for services to the ander 51 (Scottish) Brigade, agrees. “The receiving £500 a month while one of their the consultation pa- Armed Forces draws on comprehensive relationship between the employer and staff is away is quite helpful, though it’s per, ‘Future Reserves experience. An infantry offi cer, he com- reservist has never been more impor- not a direct compensation.” 2020: Delivering the manded The Argyll and Sutherland High- tant. The increased part the reserves For many bosses, of course, compensa- Nation’s Security landers, spent a signifi cant time in the will play in defence of the UK provides tion in itself is secondary to seeing them- Together’, was pre- Headquarters of the Army in Scotland, a signifi cant opportunities for both. It is selves contributing to the national effort. sented to parliament period at the British Embassy in Washing- a symbiotic relationship, with both par- “Operations running in recent years in 15 months ago by the ton DC, plus serving as defence attaché in ties gaining from the world-class training It was absolutely Iraq and Afghanistan have called on the Defence Secretary Philip Hammond. Israel before retiring in 2007 to become provided by the Royal Navy, Army and cooperation of company directors right CAmong the major implications of its chief executive of the Highland RFCA. Royal Air Force; the experiences gained critical we across the board and we have had very proposals was not just a sizeable reduc- He is deeply aware of the increasing cannot be acquired from working in a few appeals against mobilisation. Since I tion in regular forces in favour of a boost- need to engage with employers and to civilian environment.” understood have been in this job only a handful of ing of reserves but also the impact this establish and sustain a close engagement “The white paper exercise was based employers have appealed against such will have on employers. that will benefi t both parties as both the on very good assumptions drawn from the employer requests.” “This a key issue,” states Colonel AK needs of the armed forces and business the consultation in which, importantly, A similar philosophy can apply to Miller, chief executive of Highland Re- evolves. the employer’s voice was truly heard,” dimension in many reservists themselves, who — he serve Forces and Cadets Association Neither is he slow to tackle the poten- says Col Miller. “It was absolutely criti- says — do it because they are motivated. (RFCA), who made a signifi cant con- tial stress that losing a reservist for an ex- cal we understood the employer dimen- all of this “I don’t think money particularly comes 6 Thursday February 13 2014 | the times Business Insight

Employing a reservist is hugely beneficial. They bring with them a variety of skills and knowledge that is transferable into it for them. The challenge is what moves them and many of them feel it’s very valuable in terms of their personal development. “They are attracted by outstanding training; there are some really challeng- ing exercises for soldiers to go on, which ensures that they are ready to be en- gaged, and they know all that training is actually leading somewhere.” Col Miller really believes reservists bring some extremely valuable skills that don’t naturally reside in the regular mili- tary. These may be civil engineers or aca- demics expert in conflict resolution, so one of the aims is to be able to tap into that broader base of experience which re- sides in the civilian workplace. Also, he adds, important to the new, developing relationship is to ensure that “the training is outstanding and constrib- utes significantly to their personal devel- opment, which should be of keen interest to any employer”. “There are some 750 reservists from across the UK currently de- ployed, of whom about 550 are in Af- ghanistan; but the remainder are in tasks in various parts of the world: Cyprus, anti-piracy operations in the Gulf, and so on. Reservists do enjoy that.” Another big voice in support of the new strategy is that of Major General Ranald Munro, the Deputy Command- er Land Forces (Reserves), who says: “Employing a reservist is hugely ben- eficial. They bring with them a variety of skills and knowledge that is transferable to the civilian workplace. “We recognise the contribution em- ployers make and the support they pro- vide, so we are seeking to develop an The changes in every assistance for such an enormously ing the guy extra time off to go and play Colonel open relationship to ensure they are personnel will affect important duty. soldiers.” AK Miller aware of the commitment that comes all sectors of the “We also continue to recognise the However, Mr McVicar was won over is building with employing a reservist. Armed Forces value in the training and experience our to the benefits of employing a reserv- bridges “We realise the needs of different sizes reservists bring back into the workplace.” ist and was offered a place on SaBRE’s between and types of employers and have written But back to our smaller employers. Regional Employer Engagement Group, the Armed to every employer of reservists to set out James McVicar, who runs a Glasgow- which promotes the reserve forces to Services and their training schedule for the coming based printers and employs a reservist, employers. business year. We are also establishing a National recalls a heated falling out with a colonel “Now when I meet other employers Relationship Management Organisation and his staff member who had joined the with reservists I can relate to them in a that will be a single point of contact for then TA: “All I could see were problems. way that a ‘regular’ may not be able to. I major employers to interact with us.” I had a business to run and I wasn’t giv- know first-hand that the skills a reservist Also lining up in support is NHS Scot- acquires benefits employers. There’s less land — which is not only a significant absenteeism, better time-keeping and a cence and I can’t deny that was useful.” employer but also “pleased to support Benefits to employers more disciplined approach to work.” Commenting on how the military employees who are members of, or wish The advantages of employing a reservist: Edinburgh’s City Cabs is another firm communicated with him, he adds: “It’s to join, the Volunteer Reserve Forces”. „„78% of employers feel the Reserve Forces are a necessary element showing support for the reserve forces, improved. There is now a clear recogni- A government spokesman says: “The of Britain’s Armed Forces having donated advertising space for re- tion of the needs of the employers and a training undertaken by reservists enables „„63% feel reservists are an asset to Britain’s employers cruitment ads for the army reserves on two-way dialogue is encouraged. I’ve also them to develop skills and abilities that „„67% said members of the Reserve Forces should be supported by two cabs. attended a seminar outlining the impor- can be of benefit not just to the armed their employers as a matter of principle “This is the third year we have run the tance of employers supporting the mili- forces but also to the NHS patients they „„87% of employers would be very supportive if an employee were ads and it’s something we’ll keep doing,” tary and vice versa.” serve. The Scottish government expects mobilised says marketing manager Richard Boggie, Col Miller, who has seen the positive boards to adhere to the NHS Scotland „„83% of employers agreed reservists gain transferable skills that who has taken part in a number of en- result of recent events and consultations Reserve Forces Training & Mobilisation could never be learned in their own job gagement events staged by the military. held with organisations and business at Policy. This has been developed, in line „„Employers would have to purchase over £8,000 of commercial Alva-based utilities company Blyth each end of the size spectrum, and in- with legislation, to enable NHS Scotland civilian training to provide the same amount of development that Utilities employed two reservists, both cluding representative organisations such and its employees to get the maximum an average reservist’s military service provides in a year (this of whom were mobilised. Discussing as the IoD and CIPD, is confident that benefit from time spent in the Reserve research relates only to the skills that are relevant to the civilian how the mobilisation impinged on the reaching his objectives by 2020 is achiev- Forces.” workplace) company, joint managing director Colin able. At NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, „„Experience gained by reservists from a period of mobilisation, Lynch recalls: “It certainly involved a He says: “One of the really successful chairman Andrew Robertson says: “We including pre-deployment training, is worth around £8,300 for a certain amount of re-jigging and we had outcomes so far has been the increased are totally committed to supporting our Private, £14,600 for a Sergeant and £18,400 for an Officer to their to re-train one of the team to cover for engagement with employers and a great- army and other service volunteers and we employer one of the guys. That was a direct cost er recognition of the benefits of this from have put in place firm structures within *source: SaBRE that we had to bear. On the plus side, one the services. It all comes down to good our organisation to ensure they are given of the guys came back with an HGV li- communication.” the times | Thursday February 13 2014 7 Business Insight Business Forum Holding force in reserve HEMEDIA/SWNS GROUP FOR THE TIMES The latest Times How important is the public sector in relation to disseminating this message? Scotland Business Acknowledging that the Scottish Gov- ernment signed off the Armed Forces Forum convened at Covenant, Grzybowski stressed that we the Royal Scots Club in should never forget the massive commit- ment that the NHS makes to the reserve Edinburgh to discuss forces and the Defence Medical Services. He also noted that the majority of Police the Future Reserves Scotland reservists are with the Military Police. 2020 Review (FR20), “That is almost like a busman’s holi- reports Graham Lironi day,” he said. “It allows us an element of shared service mentality when we move forward for issues of mutual aid. “I think that we do need some legisla- he Future Reserves tion to support the public sector because, 2020 Review (FR20), historically, local authorities have not the consultation into been as heavy a supporter of the reserv- the future of Britain’s ists’ cause as they perhaps could have Reserve Forces by been.” the MoD proposes AK Miller noted that, while more than a new relationship 50 per cent of people in employment in between reservists, Scotland work in the public sector, only their employers and that, while this is an incentive, there re- Back row (left to “Leadership development is always about 20 per cent of the reserve forces government and a main practical issues for employers, such right): Darren Jackson, a skill that organisations are seeking; are drawn from the public sector. transparent approach whereby employers as the cost of recruiting temporary em- Jerry Riley, Stefan softer, transferrable, people skills that “The contribution made by the NHS Tare given more certainty about the timing ployees for uncertain periods of time, and Grzybowski, James military personnel do not always realise is probably the exemplar across the UK of possible mobilisations and more notice suggested that the employer, employee McVicar, Pete Little, they have.” for public service and it has been enor- when they occur. Is there any evidence and the military all need to be content Craig Jamieson, Donald mously successful over the whole Afghan of such a new relationship taking root for with the arrangement. Gordon, Stephen Do small companies feel a sense of campaign,” he said. the benefi t of the national interest? Darren Jackson agreed there is a need Davies, Keith Miller responsibility to act in the national “There is a big return on that because for certainty about the length of a reserv- Front row (left to right): interest? these consultants and high-grade nursing What are the key things that need to ist’s deployment and payment arrange- Roger Curtis, Magnus Graham Struthers said that there is a staff have brought back a lot of skills into be unlocked to overcome some of the ments should, for example, the period of Linklater, AK Miller great deal of support from small busi- hospitals in Scotland — and all of us are barriers to a company releasing an deployment be shorter than anticipated. nesses but the FSB believes if the gov- probably safer because of it.” employee into the reservists? Pete Little noted this was an issue that ernment did more to match the skills of According to AK Miller, the key thing is has been exacerbated by the recent draw- reservists with small companies’ skills Do the economic challenges facing to ensure that the reservist is properly down of signifi cant military operations requirements, perhaps through the estab- many employers have an impact on supported by his employer by developing around the world, which has seen reserv- lishment of a central database, then that reservists? an engagement between the services and ists mobilised only to fi nd there is no could prove helpful. Curtis suggested that the economic chal- employers to raise awareness of the ben- longer a requirement for them to deploy. AK Miller added the military is look- lenges can cut both ways in that they efi ts of having reservists. “The employer has to understand why might enable employers to deploy em- Roger Curtis noted that, while larger the soldier has to deploy and I think there ployees whom they might otherwise have organisations can perhaps manage that is a gap in understanding the threat and had to make redundant. Little agreed that process easier than their smaller coun- the expanded role that reservists are now the economic challenges are fundamen- terparts, the fact that in Scotland there being asked to fi ll,” he suggested. tal to the whole debate. are only so many large employers from “We’re not where we were 100 years While Stephen Davies noted that the which the forces can recruit, they need ago when the whole security of the UK most forward-thinking and intelligent to drill down into the SME sector: “We was under threat.” leadership courses have come from the need to give some sort of fi scal incentive Stefan Grzybowski said that we’ve been military and are transferable, Grzybowski or relief to employers. In my own experi- incredibly fortunate as a nation in that We’re not suggested that every reservist is effective- we’ve always experienced high levels of ly a walking, talking advert for the service public support for our armed forces and where we were they represent. Craig Jamieson posited that the relation- ship between the civilian population and 100 years ago Has the incorporation of support for the armed forces has never been better. ing at how it can address that through reservists into HR policy been widely “Barclays are launching a series of road with the whole the career transition partnership and the adopted? shows where we are talking to employees regular forces employment association. AK Miller observed that some 28,000 about the potential benefi ts of reserve security of the “A key part of this is the ability of the reservists from across the UK have been de- service and the things that they can then forces to reach out to employers and to ployed over the past 14 years to Iraq and Af- bring back to their careers,” he said. UK under threat have a more frank and honest dialogue ghanistan and he could count on one hand than has been the case to date,” he said. the number of reservists in Scotland who While acknowledging people in the re- had an appeal against their deployment. Around the table serve forces gain a tremendous amount “To me that indicates that the engage- of transferable skills, Donald Gordon ment we’ve had with employers has been ence there has to be a sacrifi ce from the The Business Forum was chaired by Magnus Linklater CBE, noted the employer will only benefi t if successful,” he suggested. employer and I think we should be up- columnist for The Times Scotland, who was joined by: those skills can be transferred into the Little said that the integration of regu- front with that.” „„Craig Jamieson, Regional Centre Head, Barclays actual job the individual is doing. lar and reserve forces — the collabora- James McVicar said small companies „„James McVicar, James McVicar Printing Works Struthers suggested there is confusion tion between the military and the private are invariably the most hostile and un- „„Stefan Grzybowski, Divisional Personnel Off icer, Police Scotland within the FSB membership over the ac- and public sectors — needs to be ex- welcoming to any approach from the „„WO2 Stephen Davies, Royal Marines Reserves Scotland creditation in the transferability of quali- plained. AK Miller agreed. forces because of the inconvenience „„Colonel AK Miller, Chief Executive, Highland RFCA fi cations gained in the military and their “The important message here is that, posed by an employee being called up as „„Commander Roger Curtis, HMS Dalriada compatibility with civilian qualifi cations. going forward, the reservist, because he’s a reservist to serve his country. „„Sqn Ldr Jerry Riley, Off icer Commanding 603 Sqn Royal Auxiliary Gordon stressed there is a need for playing an integral part in Britain’s de- Air Force qualifi cations coming from the military fence capability, is going to be much more What initiatives are being taken to try „„Graham Struthers, Chair, Forth Valley FSB to link into the Scottish qualifi cations valued than he has been in the past,” he to overcome that hurdle? „„Lieutenant Colonel Pete Little, 7 SCOTS framework so that an employer can see said. “We’ve moved right away from the AK Miller explained that the intent is „„Sgt Darren Jackson, 6 SCOTS exactly what skills an individual has Cold War. that SMEs will be given £500 from the „„Flying Off icer Keith Miller, 602 City of Glasgow Air Force gained and how that can fi t into their “We’re now in the realms of requiring Secretary of State for every month that „„Donald Gordon, Chair, CIPD Scotland own management and development pro- expertise, some of it very specialist, in the an employee is deployed. McVicar noted grammes. reserve forces to help UK plc.” 8 Thursday February 13 2014 | the times Business Insight In their own words

and pistols. You must learn infantry tac- tics that are physically and mentally demanding.” As a self-employed married man with Experience three children, Robertson also had to have someone run the business when he was on deployment or training, and this meant his wife taking up the task while holding down her own job. He says: “I would say her job was 100 per cent heav- helps army, ier than mine.” Robertson admits home life is affect- ed, not just by time at the squadron but also by preparation and physical training done in your own time. “It is very reward- work and ing though and I can honestly say, if you put in the time, you’ll get so much more out of it,” he says. “It brings you closer to your family as you cherish the time to- gether more. “I’ve been ice climbing, mountain bik- home life ing, zip lining, hill walking, white water rafting, and done driving courses. I’ve also learned leadership and communi- These three reservists may have very different cation skills. There’s been an exercise in Cyprus and deployment to Afghanistan stories to tell but all agree their time spent in last year. It’s all go.” Flying Offi cer Keith Miller started his the Reserve Forces has benefi ted them greatly career in the airline industry, moving into IT and also re-training as a civilian fl ying instructor, so reckoned he was a good fi t ecently graduated Second for the RAF. Once accepted as a reservist, with a Masters in Lieutenant he benefi ted from a range of training. chemical engineer- Martin ing, Second Lieuten- Borland has Flying Offi cer ant Martin Borland is undertaken Keith Miller looking forward to an the Army says he enjoys exciting career. As an offi cer having better Army reservist, how- selection people and ever, the Kilmarnock process management 22 year old is con- skills after vinced his prospects are already enhanced. Middle East R“The experience I’ve gained in the mil- deployment itary is invaluable,” he says. “I learned lots of new skills: teamwork is one of the most UK’s defence strategy. There are also in- important, as it gels the organisation to- dividual benefi ts for those who sign up, gether and having trained in diffi cult and and for their employers. Reservists are More and more people ing a good laugh. Hence, upon fi nishing adverse situations I’ve come to appreci- clearly committed people, and the spe- are now sharing life in my degree I decided to take it to the next “Some of the courses I’ve been on have ate the value of a cohesive team. You de- cialist training they receive develops a the Reserve Forces with level and enter the selection process to been very different to my expectations,” velop a keen set of people management number of skills, qualities and qualifi ca- successful employment become an Army offi cer.” he says. “A two-day workshop covered skills, which puts me head and shoulders tions employers are looking for. opportunities outside There are a number of reasons why the legal duty of care toward young above the rest of the competition in my Borland is a part-timer with the Army the Armed Services people decide to sign up as reservists. For trainees and the social and psychologi- job search. Reserves in the reformation of his 71 RAF Lance Corporal Shaun Robertson, it cal problems that can affect them. At the “Soft skills aside, physical fi tness is re- Engineer Regiment but will take a step was watching events unfold in Iraq and other end of the spectrum, I have been on quired and encouraged within the Army, back in his level of commitment to the Afghanistan during 2008 that made him board nuclear-powered submarines.” so there are lots of opportunities to keep reserves when he fi nds a job. become a reservist the following year. A Miller, who lives in Kinross with his fi t through a range of sports and activi- He’s “loved every minute” of the jour- taxi owner-driver from Edinburgh, Rob- wife and two children, has been opera- ties. Joining the Engineers meant I had to ney that started when he was recruited ertson had spent eight years in the Army tionally deployed in current UK opera- get up to speed with the techniques engi- into the Glasgow and Strathclyde Uni- after leaving school. “I wanted to do my tions in the Middle East, and is currently neers utilise on operations. These include versity Offi cer Training Corps during his bit,” he says. looking for new employment. demolitions, bridging, water supply and second year at university, culminating His decision brought its challenges. “I am fi tter and slimmer,” he says. “My many more.” in a recent eight-week stint at the Royal “Getting fi t is a priority as you are ex- people and management skills are better, There are around 35,000 volunteer Military Academy Sandhurst. pected to take and pass all the tests that as is my general demeanour and sense of reservists in the UK, men and women “I found out it isn’t only military and are RAF wide,” says the 46 year old. “My worth. I had the chance to work closely who give up their time — and often their adventurous training opportunities Army chosen trade is RAF Regiment Gunner, with an Arab host nation and benefi ted employers’ time — to train and serve life had to offer,” says Borland.” I forged which essentially is an air-minded infan- from a greater cultural awareness of the alongside the regular forces. The reserv- some great friendships, and had some try unit. You must learn the tools of the Middle East. My family are very proud of ists form around 14 per cent of the total equally challenging and exciting social trade — rifl e, light machine gun, general what I have achieved, and I have a new defence capacity, an essential part of the experiences in the process, as well as hav- purpose machine gun, grenade launcher sense of purpose and self respect.” Cadets on the road to becoming exemplary citizens

he Army Cadet Force* (ACF) does not sation for the Armed Forces. Colonel Mathew, to leadership training. They are also trained in number of subjects including leadership and just promise fun and adventure for of the Lowland Reserve Forces and Cadets citizenship skills, developing a respect for others music. The ACF can offer real benefi ts in terms young members, but also the chance Association, says the ACF in Scotland has and an awareness of the wider community, of education and future employment, these are to develop skills and personal quali- focused on how activities can be linked to the taking part in our Outreach residential course skills for life. However, the main point is young ties that will prove valuable in their Curriculum for Excellence and the attributes for disadvantaged youngsters to help make a people join the ACF because it’s fun, and as a Tfuture careers. and capabilities of its four capacities: success- positive contribution to Scottish society. volunteer youth organisation it is defi nitely not From rock climbing to mountain biking, ful learners, confi dent individuals, responsible “In terms of employment skills, all cadets a recruiting organisation for the Armed Forces.” archery to abseiling, more than 5000 youngsters citizens and effective contributors. learn from day one about being on time with As one of Scotland’s largest voluntary youth in almost 240 detachments across Scotland “Cadets go through four progressive stages the right equipment and ready for the day organisations, the ACF also offers adults the enjoy mucking in and trying out a wide range of training,” he says. “Each cadet will have in ahead, an ability employers tell us can be chance to get involved as one of 1000 volunteers. of activities. However, learning is also a part of excess of 100 hours of validated training per lacking in potential employees. They develop Adult volunteers need have no previous military this process. stage, with 50 per cent of that taking place team skills and leadership qualities, and learn experience as comprehensive training is provided, The ACF is a voluntary, uniformed youth outdoors, so learning outcomes are conducted how to plan and organise from their experience with Colonel Mathew stressing this training organisation for 12 to 18 year olds sponsored in a fun environment. As confi dent individuals, of expeditions and camps. develops skills employers also fi nd attractive. by the Army, but not part of it. Nor, as Colonel our older cadets help deliver training sessions to “Cadets also go through fi rst aid training *There are two other cadet organisations: the Sea Tom Mathew explains, is it a recruiting organi- younger members, under supervision, and go on and can achieve vocational qualifi cations in a Cadet Corps and the Air Training Corps. the times | Thursday February 13 2014 9 Business Insight Employment Forces move from active service to a new frontline

Landing into the world leavers find jobs in the civilian market- obviously demands a fair bit of plan- Transferring forces skills can be a challenge, of the civilian jobs place every year, while simultaneously ning. Which is where we come in – with market from high-stress answering employers’ prayers for highly a three-part programme that consists but the Career Transition Partnership is roles such as serving trained engineers, technicians, trainers, of easing the initial phase of transition, there to lend a vital hand, says Rick Wilson in the RAF is made administrators, IT managers, drivers, training for employment, then helping to easier by organisations chefs, nurses, pilots, experienced manag- find the employment itself. such as the CTP ers and communications experts. “It’s all very joined up — seamless, we Redundancies or not, service people like to think – with significant input at t’s run like a military operation — duced intake. Four waves of redundancies have always left for Civvy Street and the last stage from the Glasgow-based this is one of the most flattering have taken place and the fourth and final ideally needed some help with re-ad- Regular Forces Employment Association, things you can say about an im- one, announced last month, will make up justment; to which end, since 1998, ten the job-finding arm of the partnership.” pressively efficient company and to 1,500 personnel redundant, affecting regional resettlement centres have been That part is run by employment con- these days there is more chance the Army and a small number of Navy established by the Ministry of Defence, sultant George Clark, a former Royal than ever of that coming to pass and RAF medical and dental personnel. seven in England and one each in North- Electrical and Mechanical Engineers for more companies than ever. The better news is that — in another ern Ireland, Germany and Scotland. The (REME) man, who says: “Approximately While the current reorganisa- well-known expression — when one door official provider of this service — also of- 85 per cent of service leavers seeking tion of Britain’s Armed Forces closes another opens; and for most skilled fering free recruitment help for employ- employment find it within six months of means a reduction in their size, in- ex-forces personnel now facing a change ers wishing to hire ex-military personnel leaving the armed forces”. The Officers’ evitably creating work-finding challenges of working life, a path is now opening to — is the Career Transition Partnership Association (OA) is also part of the CTP Iback in civilian society for those person- an exciting new future. (CTP), which is the ministry working and runs a recruitment service for em- nel hanging up their boots, there are But where? Hundreds of employers with Right Management, part of the ployers offering executive opportunities. good reasons to accentuate the positive. with skills shortages are waiting with Manpower Group of companies. The partnership’s geographic reach The impact is mitigated, of course, by great expectations to welcome the idea Phil McLaughlin, an ex-RAF man is impressive. “We don’t just deliver at an Armed Forces redundancy scheme of their company being — if not run as himself, has been regional manager of home,” says Mr McLaughlin. “We take now well under way for the reductions one — more of a military operation with Scotland’s CTP operation for nine years, our services wherever they are wanted outlined in the 2010 Strategic Defence the addition of the forces-bred skills and based at MoD Caledonia, Rosyth. Of the – Cyprus, Gibraltar, Germany, wherever and Security Review. With additional disciplines now coming on to the employ- average UK figure of about 15,000 leav- our former service personnel are to be army cuts announced in 2011 after a ment market. ers a year, he would normally expect to found.” And there is considerable flexibili- three-month review, a total of 33,000 So how? Both talent-seekers and work- process about 800 Scots. ty around service people’s discharge dates, personnel, or 19 per cent of the forces, seekers have to be brought together, of So what does the CTP actually do? with the job-grooming service being avail- have been earmarked to leave by 2020 course, and the Ministry of Defence’s re- “The transition to civilian society and able up to two years before and after. through, as far as possible, a combination settlement programme is designed to do the jobs market can be challenging af- So what, specifically, does the CTP of redundancy, natural wastage and re- just that, helping thousands of service- ter years in the forces,” he says, “and it offer employers? “Most companies basi- 10 Thursday February 13 2014 | the times Business Insight

CTP’s effective Ex-forces personnel solution have skills that transfer Openreach, part of BT, has worked with the CTP since 2010, recruiting more very well to offshore than 1,500 service leavers in this time. Motivated by the need to recruit industries, particularly in the right people both fast and cost effectively, Openreach approached the technical disciplines CTP for the solution. Olivia Garfield, Openreach’s then Chief Executive, commented: “The CTP cally know they are being offered top- have such an in-depth knowledge of class workers — people with a great work their client base and understanding of ethic, commitment and can-do attitude. the skills and attributes they possess, They know that beyond such life skills, that they ensured they matched the most service-leavers have experience and candidates with our needs.” transferable practical skills that can be Openreach’s recruitment pro- pretty valuable. gramme through the CTP was a huge “Our on-line job matching service, success with almost 90 per cent of RightJob, enables their vacancies to be ac- those interviewed being offered a cessed by suitable ex-military candidates full-time job meaning Openreach’s quickly and effectively.” And on the other recruitment objectives were met. side of the coin, what does the CTP offer Garfield concluded by praising ex the service-leaving job hunter? “Tran- service personnel, “Service leavers sitional training is where resettlement are highly skilled, motivated and starts — with a three-day career workshop disciplined and have experience of during which they get to see themselves complex engineering tasks in chal- in the mirror; looking, as they’ve never lenging environments.” looked before, at their own qualities and, “Their military training means sometimes, shortcomings; their skills and they are flexible and prepared to achievements. We then get this informa- travel at short notice whilst having tion into CV form before approaching the a disciplined approach to work and job market with the candidates. a very positive attitude. For us, as “This might involve aspects like net- an employer, it’s fantastic that we’ve working, which many have never done been able to recruit so many ex-forces before on a job-finding exercise. And personnel.” from there we look at how to target jobs, CVs and relevant sectors to each other before focusing in on a specific company Phil ing opportunities for both technical and a more strategic, coherent way to bring and its opportunities. We also organise McLaughlin, non-technical candidates in a clear and them on board and in greater numbers. trial work placements, not to mention regional comprehensible format”. “Ex-forces personnel have skills that numerous training courses and events manager of Talking of oil and gas, one place where transfer very well to offshore industries, across the UK. Plus, we have dedicated Scotland’s a good number of jobs have been land- particularly in the technical disciplines employment consultants like George CTP ed by ex-military people is Petrofac, the we are focusing on. So what are the quali- Clark and many other professionals to operation Aberdeen-headquartered international ties that make ex-forces personnel so at- help you find and land the perfect job. service provider to the industry. “With a tractive to the industry? “Which is where interview techniques skills shortage right across the industry “They’re well educated in terms of become important, and frankly some of and major projects on the horizon, we their skills, very good in technical disci- them are very rusty on that front. So we have had to look for such new sources plines,” says Thain. “They’re also pretty enhance their technique and build up and smarter ways of recruiting at all lev- mobile, used to working away from home, their confidence base. Because we reckon els — but particularly for offshore techni- and often up for a new challenge. While that, even if you have inherent skills to the hiring executives of Amazon’s recruit- cal disciplines,” says Walter Thain, senior they are all technically well qualified, our offer, if you don’t have the confidence to ment team on the look-out for experts in vice-president Europe, Petrofac Offshore approach is all about making them oil- project them to land that job, then it isn’t many fields from logistics through IT to Projects & Operations. and-gas specific. They’ve also got that going to happen.” engineering, is scheduled for Rosyth on So who are the potential candidates? helpful mentality of following processes To effect mutual introductions, the February 20. And there’s a similar pres- They are identified through the CTP and and procedures. All of which is a perfect CTP hosts all manner of happenings such entation at the same location seven days Petrofac itself which is initially aiming at combination of qualities we require.” as employment fairs and industry aware- later by Furgo Survey Ltd with an eye on recruiting into two areas — offshore tech- Another well-known Scottish com- ness days; a fact amply illustrated by Mr ex-forces people with skills in areas such nicians typically ex-Army, Navy or RAF They tune in pany that believes in service-leavers, hav- McLaughlin’s office wall papered with as engineering, electronics and telecom- personnel with transferable mechanical, ing employed several, is CR Smith, whose posters announcing forthcoming events munications. Police Scotland is also inter- electrical or instrumentation skills; and very quickly to chairman Gerard Eadie says: “They are that invite such networking. An impor- ested in such people and is mounting a project engineers, typically former non- intelligent, hard-working individuals who tant example being the CTP-sponsored CTP-hosted presentation, also at Rosyth, commissioned officers, with a mix of in- the goals of the have been trained in a disciplined envi- Scottish Employment Fair in May which on March 12, with a view to recruiting po- terpersonal skills and experience of plan- ronment. It means that they are good is sold as “a fantastic opportunity to net- lice constables across Scotland. ning in large-project environments. company and listeners and understand structure and work and meet with potential employers Other important CTP events coming “We already have many employees good planning. ranging from multinationals to smaller up soon are oil-and-gas industry “aware- offshore from forces backgrounds and how their role “More than most, they tune in very regionally based companies across a ness presentations” at four UK centres, they have proved to be successful and quickly to the goals of the company and wide range of different industries . . . all including Rosyth on March 18, “provid- popular,” adds Thain, “but we wanted can impact how their role can impact those goals. So, the companies in attendance being there even if they are not on the front line — because they are specifically seeking to in our case, selling windows — they see recruit service-leavers”. ‘They are loyal, dependable and adaptable’ the bigger picture and understand the Mr Clark and his job-finding team Robin Geachy is managing director helicopters. confidence, to be self-sufficient. If importance of their job in achieving a are often a big presence at such events, of Renfrew-headquartered Peak We found they have a problem, they have the company’s ultimate aims.” That’s a couple keeping the would-be recruits focused on Scientific Instruments, which has their in-depth initiative to deal with it, so that you of employers’ views. “the realities of the civilian employment offices from Tokyo through Frank- training don’t have to worry about them, if In its own pitch to potential job-pro- market — so if a Service leaver is looking furt to Boston. No fewer than 30 of exceptionally they’re sent off on a task abroad, for viders, the CTP is even more precise and for a role that they may not hold the ap- his 260 employees are ex-forces helpful, while instance. But the ability of such a comprehensive about the qualities that propriate skills, or experience for, at that people. Here he explains why. they were person to communicate and explain make military people and their skills such time we will discuss it with them frankly “We started with naval people, also very things clearly and concisely is a catch. Specifically, it cites, quite a blush and work together in looking at more ap- especially those who brought mobile, good admirable and allows us to transfer inducing list. propriate options”. submarine experience with onboard at instantly going anywhere in the these skills around the world. Accelerated learning curve: Service- Mr McLaughlin adds: “So it all comes life depending often on their ability world and doing a first-time fix. “We have had great success leavers have the ability to learn new skills together rather nicely at the start and we to fix something immediately and “But their training is not just with our ex-military people.” So, he and concepts and can enter the work build on that all the way through in terms well. RAF leavers brought similar technical, it is also of the whole laughs: “We have to make sure that force with identifiable and transferable of getting the service-leaver properly pre- qualities, being used to life-or-death person – they are loyal, dependable other competitive employers don’t skills, proven in real-world situations. pared for civilian employment.” scenarios working on Tornados or and adaptable, able to travel with read this report too closely!” Leadership: Ex-military people un- Another opportunity to network, with derstand the practical ways to manage the times | Thursday February 13 2014 11 Business Insight

behaviours for results, even in the most trying circumstances. They also know the dynamics of leadership as part of both hi- ‘The best decision I’ve ever made’ erarchical and peer structures. Having served in the RAF for 12 years, It involves the maintenance of control Qualifi cations: Service-leavers come ex-Corporal Ian Polson now works in and instrumentation systems used in to the civilian market with a wide variety Falkirk as an instrument technician for refining gases. The engineering skills of formal qualifi cations and experience the Wood Group, having left via the I acquired in the RAF fit my new role that is both relevant and sought by em- voluntary redundancy programme perfectly and my communication and ployers. Much of this can be attributed to in late 2012. He says: “In the RAF I teamworking skills also transfer well. the military providing the largest appren- completed three HNDs in engineering “There are many similarities between ticeship scheme in the country. subjects, plus other qualifications that my RAF role and my new position, Teamwork: They understand how helped my communication skills. including working in a challenging but genuine teamwork grows out of a re- “Overall, I feel the experience I gained interesting environment, as part of a sponsibility to colleagues. Military duties over 12 years was priceless. small team of technicians. The main involve a blend of individual and group “As part of my resettlement, I diff erences are to home life. I now know productivity; they also necessitate a per- attended a CTP Workshop and found what time I’ll start and finish and am in ception of how groups of all sizes relate to the sections on CV writing and interview control of any overtime, so my family each other in order to reach an objective. techniques invaluable in selling myself and I are enjoying the stability. Effi cient performance and fl exibility: to civilian employers. I also regularly “I’ve never looked back and regard Military leavers understand the rigours logged on to RightJob and actually the decision to leave as the best I’ve ever of tight schedules and limited resources. found my current position via that site. made.” They have developed the capacity to know how to accomplish priorities on time, despite tremendous stress. They gender, geographic origin, ethnic back- themselves and the welfare of others. On know the critical importance of staying ground, religion and economic status as a company level, their awareness and with a task until it’s done right. well as mental, physical and attitudinal conscientiousness translate into protec- Respect for procedures: They have capabilities. They have the sensitivity and tion of employees, property and materials. gained a unique perspective on the value diplomacy to co-operate with many dif- Triumph over adversity: Ex-forces per- of accountability and can grasp their place ferent types of individuals. sonnel have frequently triumphed over within an organisational framework, be- Technology and globalisation: Be- great adversity. They are likely to have coming responsible for subordinates’ ac- cause of their experiences in the service, proven their mettle in mission-critical tions to higher supervisory levels. ex-military personnel are usually aware situations demanding endurance, stami- Integrity and loyalty: They know what of international and technical trends per- na and fl exibility. an honest day’s work means. Prospective tinent to business and industry. They can Presenting this list of qualities, as employers can take advantage of a track bring the kind of global outlook and tech- gleaned from a variety of appreciative record of integrity, which translates into nological savvy that all enterprises of any sources, Mr McLaughlin smiles as he The transition from qualities of sincerity and trustworthiness. size need to succeed. says: “I think I could even offer a good armed forces to Civvy Diversity and inclusion: Ex-military Health and safety savvy: Thanks to ex- few more.” Street can be made just personnel have learned to work side by tensive training, service-leavers are aware For more information on the above-men- one step at a time side with individuals regardless of race, of health and safety procedures both for tioned events visit www.ctp.org.uk

COMMERCIAL REPORT: SDI Building a golden bridge to China DONALD CARDWELL Anne MacColl Two key events promise to help Scottish businesses lay is the chief executive their foundation stones for sharing in the success of an of Scottish Development economy that is set to become the largest in the world International, which is an organiser cottish businesses are being is no doubt that the size and scale of the of the two urged to share in the success market can be challenging, but with the conferences of a growing China – which, right focus and support, companies can despite the recent global see huge rewards.” economic downturn, is now So how do they go about it? Despite the the second largest economy in undeniable fact there is a huge appetite that bridge? In Edinburgh, attendees will Sthe world and set to become the biggest and readiness among the Scots to trade have access to senior professional speakers in fi ve years. with China, evidenced by the increase of from within the fi nancial and legal sectors Whether exporting, importing, selling, exports to the market by 88 per cent in and Business Enterprise (BE) Group. In trading, investing or franchising, this the past fi ve years, few would deny that Inverness, Intellectual Assets experts 21st-century global superpower offers cultural and business-method challenges Murgitroyd & Co will be on hand to business opportunities in abundance; and often go along with that exercise. give advice. At both events there will be as its tentacles reach out across the world, Familiarisation with both challenges opportunities to speak to market special- Scottish companies – with their stall and opportunities is seen as a key block in ists from SDI and China Britain Business full of world-class products – are well- building a golden bridge to this signifi cant Council (CBBC). equipped to build up sales there. market and, to that end, two special There will also be a chance to hear There are, for instance, signifi cant “Doing Business with China” events are from Scottish companies sharing their opportunities for companies that can being organised in Scotland by SDI. experiences of trading with China, as satisfy increasing consumer demand To be staged in early March in Inver- well as getting guidance on how to set from the growing middle class in China. ness and Edinburgh, these events – repre- up a business in this fast growing market, Examples of such demand, such as educa- senting “a unique opportunity to discover The Bank of China in Hong of products and services, such as food exploring cultural considerations and tion, food and drink, textiles, fi nancial China’s potential” – are free, but places Kong epitomises China’s and drink, notably salmon and whisky, uncovering options and possibilities service and tourism sectors, match many should be registered as soon as possible to route to becoming the cashmere, textiles, oil and gas and renew- there. One-to-one meetings are available of Scotland’s key offerings. avoid disappointment. biggest economy in the able energy expertise, not to mention on request. Anne MacColl, chief executive of Attendees will be shown that Scottish world and the country’s high technology and “great opportunities” The Inverness event is at Eden Court Scottish Development International companies have plenty to sell and be offer of new opportunities for Scottish universities to partner with Theatre on March 5, while the Edinburgh (SDI), the international arm of Scottish confi dent about in this relatively new for Scottish businesses the Chinese in developing world-class event will take place the following day Enterprise and Highlands and Islands and exciting market, thanks to their research and development in, for exam- at the Crowne Plaza in the Roxburghe Enterprise, says: “China is a market with “world-class reputation for high-quality ple, electronics. Hotel. For more information, see www. great potential for ambitious Scottish products”. So what will the Inverness and Edin- scottish-enterprise.com/events/2014/03/ businesses looking to drive growth. There Ms MacColl cites an impressive array burgh events offer in terms of building doing-business-in-china-2014 12 Thursday February 13 2014 | the times Business Insight

COMMERCIAL REPORT: TURNBERRY HOTEL It’s where pleasure is a serious business Maximillion, we can provide the perfect Thanks to its new outdoor activity centre and refurbished space for stimulating and engaging indoor team-building experiences throughout the events facilities, Turnberry hotel is more than living up year.” Maximillion is an Edinburgh-based to its name as top choice for both business and leisure team-building and event management agency. In consultation with the hotel hat do Rod Stewart, Adventures, and the refurbishment of and the client, it promises “a bespoke Luciano Pavarotti, the hotel’s 2,949sqft Caledonia Suite as range of activities for corporate groups Turnberry hotel is seaview suites. It is also much appreciated Bing Crosby, Bob an ideal location for large meetings and wishing to enrich their stay at Turnberry located amidst some of by good food lovers, with its choice of Hope, Jack Nichol- events accommodating up to 220 people. with experiential team-building events”. Ayrshire’s most beautiful special dining experiences, including the son, Prince Edward Turnberry – one of a global ensemble of These include indoor happenings seaside scenery signature restaurant 1906 which, led by and Abba have in conspicuously impeccable hotels known (filming, painting, music, constructing, executive head chef Munur Kara, offers Wcommon? They have all stayed at Ayr- as the Luxury Collection – already had dancing and sustainability) and outdoor classic dishes with a modern twist and a shire’s elegant Turnberry hotel, relishing a reputation for top-class meeting and (quad safaris, horse-riding, water zorbing, unique Chef’s Table experience. not just its elevated views over the Irish events facilities, specialising in bespoke boot camps, treasure hunts, off-road Further epicurean delights include the Sea but also its remarkable leisure offer- boardroom experiences. So what’s new? driving), as well as options such as elegant Grand Tea Lounge, Ailsa Bar & ings, notably the golfing opportunities “The suite has never looked better,” Entertaining Evenings (antique antics, Lounge, Duel in the Sun bar and Tappie that particularly exercise sporting guests . says general manager Jordi Tarrida. “With game shows, pub olympics, casino night, Toorie restaurant. But for those who The five-star hotel has been celebrated its fresh styling and state-of-the-art air murder mystery, quiz nights, race nights) might have overdone it on that front, for its star-attracting luxury since it was conditioning, it is enjoying an increase in and the shorter Energiser activity, “ideal there is – of course – a luxurious spa offer- opened as the world’s first golf resort more corporate bookings and we’re delighted as an ice-breaker for delegates first thing ing a range of ESPA treatments. than a century ago – but now it is getting this wonderful function space now truly in the morning or to re-energise them While it seems a world away from down to business; at least to the business reflects the luxury service guests expect.” after lunch” (this is themed around music, urban cares, Turnberry is an hour’s drive of attracting executives appreciative of And the new adventures? “This renova- construction, fashion and card games). from Glasgow or two from Edinburgh, facilities that mix business with pleasure. tion means that, with the introduction of This star member of Starwood Hotels making it a perfect place to host a variety That has been signalled by two recent Turnberry Adventures, we have substan- & Resorts’ acclaimed Luxury Collec- of corporate events for group sizes from developments – the introduction of its tially improved our corporate team-build- tion, Turnberry boasts 149 luxuriously two to 200. That’s the business, as Rod outdoor activity centre, called Turnberry ing offering. Working in partnership with appointed guest rooms, including four Stewart has been known to say.

COMMERCIAL REPORT: CONVERGE CHALLENGE Steady as she goes to win the day JAMES GLOSSOP FOR THE TIMES burgh, before becoming Heriot Watt financial, branding matters, and general Competitors in the University’s enterprise creation manager. mentoring and support. “We strive to create entrepreneurs in The competition’s deadline this year is Converge Challenge are Scotland, but obviously when it comes to May 2, with the results to be announced selecting our winners, we are looking for at an award ceremony on September 30. urged to base their avid sustainable, profitable businesses.” It is open to staff and students of In this she is in line with a recent all Scottish universities and research study by researchers from three Scottish institutes, and, as Dr Kozlova points out, entrepreneurship in universities that reported a “mismatch” “we work with any industry sector, prod- between high-growth firms and govern- uct- or service-based ideas at any stage of long-term sustainability ment support policies, claiming most such development”. firms are misidentified and are in fact The last winners were SACCADE well-established ones from traditional Diagnostics, from Aberdeen University. ur companies ought to sectors; not so much technology-based Madhu Nair and Philip Benson beat off blow their trumpets more. newcomers that can be “over-subsidised” tough competition to secure the prize to Being often a pivotal to little effect. help develop a novel eye-movement test figure in their careers, Dr Which is not to say the latter group aiding diagnosis of psychiatric disorders. Olga Kozlova displays a shouldn’t join the former in time, and Finance minister John Swinney MSP unique objectivity about Dr Kozlova – herself a former CEO of a presented the prize at an awards dinner in Oacademic Scots with marketable ideas high-throughput screening company with front of 200 guests. that could launch them on the heady more than 15 years’ experience in the life Dr Olga Kozlova, Converge turn technology into product. It’s not an All competitors are encouraged to journey to big-time commercial success. science sector – says: “You simply need to Challenge director, is always instant process. You need to mature your “blow their trumpets” and spread their As director of the Converge Challenge give such academics a chance to develop. looking out for sustainable, ideas; gather a good team around you. message as far as possible – such as – a business competition that aims to It takes time for them to build a team, to profitable businesses “It’s like building a house, or even Edinburgh University alumnus Jona- find every year’s most promising Scottish get used to the real business world, and to growing a family. You need to get your than Millin, who won a special award university spin-out offering “an excellent house in order, form partnerships, settle in the 2011 competition and is now solution to a well-defined problem” – she down a bit to steady development, and San Francisco-based – as co founder of is refreshingly frank about getting their after that you can do your high growth.” DroneDeploy, backed by US venture message across, while also expressing Talking of growth, she estimates that capitalists who like its development of admiration for indigenous talents. the Converge Challenge, now in its fifth drones for peaceful purposes. But when it comes to company year, has been growing at 20 per cent a Like its product, this company’s growth development she is wary of short-term, You need to mature year. could be described as fast and high, high-growth ambition often based on “As close an experience to a real perhaps reflecting – after a similar transat- super-high-tech ideas, and is an unapolo- your ideas ... you business as you can possibly get”, it is now lantic jump – the 19th-century entrepre- getic proponent of longer-term growth. Scotland’s largest business competition neurial spirit of Scot Andrew Carnegie, “We don’t want high growth to equate need to get your and entrepreneurial training programme who become the world’s richest man. to high risk,” says Dr Kozlova, who house in order, with a top prize of £60,000, comprised The exception, doubtless, that proves became committed to this country on of £35,000 in cash and £25,000 of help the soundness of Dr Kozlova’s steady-as- gaining a PhD in cell biology in Edin- form partnerships “in kind” – which means advice on legal, you-go philosophy.