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Issue 123 October 2018 the magazine for defence equipment des and support
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Helicopters | Aeronautics | Electronics, Defence & Security Systems | Space Foreword t was a very great pleasure to teams and individual employees, hear the Chief of General Staff for 10 years this year. I(CGS) praise our employees for Elsewhere, I was delighted to their “ruthless focus” on delivering see the success of the Stepping for the armed forces when he Up summit at MOD Abbey visited MOD Abbey Wood. Wood, aimed at helping people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds "As a major employer in the South West, we are committed to progress to higher management positions in this region. It was ensuring our workforce is diverse, inclusive and representative the first summit of its kind to take place in Bristol, and it of the population around Bristol" was a privilege to host it and welcome over 70 of the city’s BAME aspiring leaders, as well General Mark Carleton- as Deputy Mayor of Bristol City Smith CBE offered his heartfelt Council Cllr Asher Craig. thanks and spoke highly of our As a major employer in the transformation programme and South West, we are committed our professionalism in delivering to ensuring our workforce for the Army, also adding that is diverse, inclusive and our contribution is very much representative of the population recognised. around Bristol. Therefore, I’m I absolutely endorse these really pleased that DE&S has remarks and the commitment provided mentors for Stepping he spoke of was also remarked Up participants from other on during recent visits by organisations and will also offer the Minister for Defence short-term project placements Procurement and the Chief for them to come and work with of the Defence Staff. This us. commitment was very evident Finally, I must mention our when I visited DVD, one of the employee Tim Hulton-Harrop, world’s leading land equipment whose incredible family story events. is featured in this edition. Tim’s DE&S had several excellent uncle was the first fighter pilot displays which attracted a lot to be killed in the Second World of attention, and I was proud War, and his father was shot to see our employees talking down shortly after, spending enthusiastically and with four years in a POW camp in By Sir Simon Bollom, CEO passion about their projects to Poland. His poignant account is everyone, including the Minister a tribute to all those who have for Defence Procurement Stuart given their lives serving their Andrew. country – we remember them. The Minister has visited several of our industry partners recently as he immerses himself in his portfolio, and has made various positive announcements, including ones around the Boxer and F-35 programmes. In addition, the Minister has praised the outstanding Defence Fulfilment Centre at MOD Donnington and seen for himself the crucial role Welsh firms are playing in Defence. You can read about all of these in this month’s edition of Desider, which has been celebrating milestones, as well as the achievements of our
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4 desider October 2018 Feature Contents 06 Senior Leader DE&S People On the cover Comment – Director Min DP Stuart Andrew on a Boxer Financial Planning 16 First Person – Finance vehicle at DVD 2018 and Analysis David Business Partner Johnson to Director Land Photo by Jack Eckersley Equipment Sonya Ball News 28 60 Second Spotlight – Artillery Systems 12 Defence Minister engineering manager praises Defence Paul Ng Fulfilment Centre 29 DE&S People – DE&S 18 New cutting-edge employees help F-35 facility opened transform phone box 22 Final aircraft depth into toy library for local maintenance children completed on 32 Jobs – Desider’s latest Tornado recruitment pages and 24 DE&S champions benefits diversity with Stepping Up summit 26 Desider celebrates 10th birthday 27 Welsh industry visited by Defence minister Features 08 All the news from DVD 14 The amazing war story of the Hulton- Harrop family 20 DE&S A400M graduates visit the Falklands www.gov.uk/government/publications/desider-2018 Twitter: @DefenceES Facebook: @DefenceES LinkedIn: Defence Equipment & Support YouTube: DE&S
5 desider October 2018 Senior Leader Comment
David Johnson, Director Financial Planning and Analysis, talks to Desider about improvements in finance, the priorities for the year ahead and his experience at DE&S
eading into the final Hopefully, as we progress on One big item on the agenda is quarter of this year and our transformation journey, helping the front line commands looking back, it’s amazing we’ll continue to improve. One adapt to the new inventory Hhow much has happened this year of the biggest benefits we’ve seen I’m proud to control framework. In April 2019, and how much the organisation so far is the standardisation of they’ll take responsibility for the has achieved. our processes, which will make say that DE&S budgets for raw materials and At the start of 2018, I was acting it easier for staff ot take up has managed consumables. That’s a big change DG (Resources) while Michael assignments in different parts from the way things are currently Bradley stepped up as acting CEO. of DE&S as they know that to live within managed and we need to work It was a fascinating insight into the the processes used and reports its operating hard to help them make that Executive Committee’s roles and produced will be consistent. budget every transition. really brought home to me how But the biggest thing Also, the department as a demanding it is working at the underpinning our transformation year since whole is now looking at adopting highest levels in DE&S. journey for me is the balanced we became a functional leadership model In May 2018, I reverted back matrix. It’s a big cultural change similar to the one we’ve already to my role as Director Financial to switch our mindset from a bespoke embraced. As part of this, there is a Planning and Analysis, which thinking in terms of having a trading entity programme on finance functional essentially means I’m the deputy certain number of people that leadership which affects the whole Chief Finance Officer. Broadly “belong” to us, to thinking more of the MOD. I’m working with speaking, there are three main systematically about the work that DG Finance and the directors of parts to my role: managing the £1 needs doing and how many hours resources across the department to billion operating budget, helping we need to invest in achieving that. help take that forward. our customers manage their It’s inevitable that it’ll take time Whatever happens in future, Equipment Plan budgets (about £9 to really adapt to this approach, DE&S is never going to be able to billion a year), and managing the but eventually we’ll see a lot stand still. We’re part of a bigger Finance and Accounting Function. more flexibility in the way we’re picture in terms of the department I’m proud to say that DE&S working. and government, and the real has managed to live within its So what’s ahead for us in the world will continue to come up operating budget every year since next 12 months? By the nature with new challenges to face. But we became a bespoke trading of finance, there are those tasks we’re on the right path and we’ve entity. Last year, we were under which we have to do every year all got to keep pulling in the same budget, which was perfect. Not (living within the budget, getting direction. only does this show we have good the accounts right) and you can control, but our forecasting has never take those for granted. become better. They’re high on our priority list.
6
desider October 2018 Feature
Pictured clockwise from top left: Minister for Defence Procurement Stuart Andrew speaks to Roddy Malone, Head of Land Concepts and Assessment, and Major General Colin McClean, Director Land Equipment at DE&S; Chief of the General Staff General Mark Carleton-Smith viewing the Challenger 2; DE&S CEO Sir Simon Bollom chats with Major General Colin McClean; Boxer vehicle at Milbrook Proving Ground; Chief of Materiel (Land) Lt Gen Paul Jaques with DE&S Chairman Paul Skinner; JLTV (Pictures by Jack Eckersley, Beth Squire and Andrew Linnett)
8 desider October 2018 Feature
DVD 2018 “British companies are stepping up to the plate yet again for a project which could support up to 1,000 jobs across the country” Stuart Andrew, Minister for Defence Procurement
DE&S, Army and industry experts from the Land pursuit of a vehicle which works best for the Army, sector all came together last month in one of the the taxpayer and British industry.” largest showcases of British Land equipment. The MOD announced that it had re-joined the DVD18, which was jointly sponsored by DE&S and Boxer programme back in March, as it looks to Army Headquarters, saw the eight-wheeled armoured modernise its vehicle fleet and meet the Mechanised Boxer vehicle and the Oshkosh JLTV put through Infantry Vehicle (MIV) requirement. their paces on the muddy tracks of Millbrook Proving After viewing four of the new £4.5 billion Ajax Ground in Bedfordshire. family armoured vehicles, Mr Andrew added: “What Over two days, visitors including DE&S CEO Sir has become really clear to me is that, if we’re going Simon Bollom, Chief of Materiel (Land) Lt Gen Paul to get the right equipment for our armed forces, it is Jaques and Director Land Support Maj Gen Colin about that partnership between government, MOD, McClean saw a wide range of equipment with more DE&S, industry, working together with our armed than 250 companies exhibiting, ranging from SMEs forces to ensure that they have the equipment they to larger suppliers. need.” Displays included vehicle demonstrations, He revealed that Lockheed Martin UK has equipment suppliers, spares and service providers. successfully delivered the first eight, of 245, Lt Gen Jaques said: “The whole aim of DVD is to production turrets to Ajax’s prime contractor, bring together, in a relatively close environment, the General Dynamics Land Systems. He also announced teams at DE&S and the Army with the people who that the MOD has recently taken delivery of the 200th are actually delivering the equipment, industry. This Cased Telescope cannon – the innovative weapon, is absolutely vital, if not critical, in order to all work developed between UK and French industry, which together to deliver the equipment and support that will provide the stopping power for the armed Ajax the Army deserves.” variant, as well as the upgraded Warrior vehicle being Attending the show, Minister of Defence developed through an MOD Capability Sustainment Procurement Stuart Andrew announced that the Programme. programme to supply the Army with more than 500 There were some new additions to this year’s show eight-wheeled armoured vehicles has taken a major aimed at reflecting the theme of innovation, including step forward. an opportunity for industry experts to participate in Talking to a packed room of DE&S, MOD, Army speaker sessions. and industry representatives, Mr Andrew said British Apprentices and graduates from DE&S also helped suppliers have been given the go-ahead to bring man a ‘Year of Engineering’ stand underlining DE&S forward proposals for work on the Boxer vehicles. and the Army’s commitment to encouraging more This means Artec, who lead on the production of the young people into Science, Technology, Engineering troop carriers, will now ramp up work to complete and Mathematics (STEM) subjects and talking to a their supplier selection before returning to DE&S number of engineering graduates invited to the event. with a formal proposal next year. The Defence Equipment Sales Authority (DESA) “British companies are stepping up to the plate yet was also displaying some of the UK armed forces again for a project which could support up to 1,000 military equipment which is available for sale, jobs across the country”, he added later. including CVR(T), Warthog and MAN SV, with the “It is great to give industry the green light to now vehicles showing off their capabilities on the track. pull together a full plan of action. I am looking forward to pressing ahead with negotiations in our
9 desider October 2018 News In Brief
Head of the Indian Navy Submarine Service visits NATO Submarine Rescue System
The Head of the Indian Navy Submarine Rescue Commander Chris Navy Submarine Service Team, were given the Coles said: “This was a met with Commander Chris opportunity to view the NSRS great opportunity to meet Coles of the Submarine equipment and facilities the head of the Indian Delivery Agency Emergency during their visit to HMNB Submarine Service and his Response team during a fact- Clyde. newly formed rescue team. finding visit to the NATO The Indian Navy were keen It will be a couple of years Submarine Rescue System to learn how the system is before India's rescue systems (NSRS) Headquarters in maintained, operated and are fully operational, but Scotland. deployed by the experienced NSRS hopes to forge a close Rear Admiral Mohit team based at Faslane, as working relationship and Gupta, Assistant Chief of they themselves are in the establish mutual rescue Naval Staff uS bmarines, process of procuring two new arrangements with the and Rear Admiral Ratnam submarine rescue systems Indian Navy”. Sreenivas, Indian MOD which are manufactured in Technical Manager, together Scotland by James Fisher with staff from the Indian Defence.
British-armed F-35B Lightning Britain’s new stealth fighter jet, The jet, flown by a British pilot the F-35B Lightning, has carried from RAF 17 Squadron, took to out its first trials armed with UK- the skies from Edwards Air Force built weapons. base in southern California for Defence Minister Stuart the momentous flight carrying Andrew revealed a British ASRAAM air-to-air missiles. F-35 Lightning jet reached the Royal Navy Captain Rick landmark milestone whilst on a Clarke, Support and Type visit to the Defence Electronics Airworthiness Authority for the and Components Agency (DECA) Lightning Delivery Team (LDT), in Wales (see more about the DE&S, said: “The LDT worked Minister’s visit to Wales on page hard to achieve the appropriate 27). military flight clearances for DECA is set to become a 17 Squadron to fly the UK global repair hub for the cutting- F-35B with UK weapons. The edge aircraft, rp oviding crucial flight provided us with useful maintenance, repair, overhaul information about the weapon’s and upgrade services for F-35 integration and performance, and avionics, electronic and electrical was a significant milestone for the components, fuel, mechanical and UK in evaluating the operational hydraulic systems. effectiveness of the F-35B.”
is a great pleasure for me to be DE&S staff in Bristol. You have been on a transformation journey which, thanked by in many respects, is a pace setter and exemplar for our other key Chief of major single services and wider institutions across defence. General Staff “Your professionalism, focus, pace and agility has taken you General Mark Carleton- to a place whereby we, as the Smith CBE, the Chief of General customer, can be confident there Staff (CGS), thanked DE&S is a whole force that not only employees for the ruthless focus understands the demands and on delivering for the armed forces requirements of the Army but that when he visited MOD Abbey is ruthlessly focused on delivering Wood. those key capabilities in a timely, General Carleton-Smith, who efficient and as cost-effective was appointed in May, addressed manner as possible. staff urd ing a Town Hall held “On behalf of the Army, thank during his visit to the Bristol- you very much indeed for all that based site last month, where he you are doing, and let me reassure spoke candidly about his priorities you that the contribution you and the challenges he believes the make is very much recognised.” Army faces. He told DE&S employees: “It
10 desider October 2018 News In Brief
Taking the art of the ‘selfie’ to new heights This is one of just nine stunning Hawk T2’s are one of the The training fleet will training, or Juno and Jupiter images chosen from more than aircraft that make up the include Prefect, Texan, the for rotary wing training. 1,000 entries as a finalist in the UK Military Flying Training multi-engined Phenom, and The modernisation of Peoples’ Choice category of the System (UKMFTS). Juno and Jupiter helicopters. military flying training Royal Air Force Photographic DE&S placed a contract Following graduation from through UKMFTS Competition. in May 2008 for £1.1 billion Elementary Flying Training significantly reduces the time The image, titled ‘Selfie’, was with Ascent Flight Training on the Prefect, students it takes pilots to prepare for taken by Corporal Tim Laurence to design, deliver and manage move on to the Texan turbo frontline duties and reduces during a routine training sortie the full range of military prop and then the Hawk T2 the overall cost to Defence. over the coast of Anglesey in an flight training for all three trainer for fast jet training, the RAF Hawk T2. Services until 2033. Phenom for multi-engined
Proud moment as McIntosh visits building named in father's honour Stuart McIntosh has visited of Establishment Barry Burton MOD Abbey Wood from his presented Stuart with a spade home in Australia to tour the site that was used by Sir Malcolm to and see the building named in his commemorate the start of the late father’s honour. grounds work at Abbey Wood. McIntosh was named after Stuart, who lives in Sydney, Sir Malcolm McIntosh, who was visited the site with his partner Chief of Defence Procurement Jennie Halsall on September 10. between 1991 and 1996, when the He said: “My father was site was being built. incredibly proud of his work Sir Malcolm, recruited by in the UK as Chief of Defence the MOD from the Australian Procurement and MOD Abbey government, was instrumental in Wood was one of his finest getting Abbey Wood built and, in achievements. To stand outside doing so, is credited with playing the building named in his honour a key role in reducing operating was very special. I am so grateful costs and improving efficiency to those at MOD Abbey Wood and effectiveness. who made this happen. To mark the occasion, Head
11 desider October 2018 News
Defence Minister Stuart Andrew visits MOD Donnington Pictured: Stuart Andrew, Minister for Defence Procurement, praised the new facilities at MOD Donnington (Picture by Tom Morris)
efence Minister Stuart and the hard work their team relationship between DE&S and Andrew paid tribute to has undertaken to make sure this our delivery partner Team Leidos.” DE&S and the future of The delivery of this concept is becoming a reality.” Matt Wiles, Vice President DShropshire’s giant military logistics facility is testament The DFC is part of the Logistics Leidos UK, said: “When fully facility when he visited MOD to the excellent Commodities and Services operational, the DFC operated Donnington. relationship between Transformation programme. In by Kuehne + Nagel on behalf of The Defence Fulfilment Centre DE&S and our delivery April 2015 DE&S signed a 13- Team Leidos will help deliver a (DFC) was opened last year to year contract with Team Leidos modern, agile, responsive and revolutionise the way support is partner Team Leidos to run the storage, distribution modern supply chain to the MOD delivered for the armed forces Roger West, Director and commodity procurement at significantly better value for wherever they may be in the Logistics Delivery at DE&S functions formerly performed by money.” world. the Logistics Commodities and The £83 million facility, due Services Operating Centre. to be fully operational in 2019, is Alongside special the size of ten football pitches. It environmental storage, the DFC’s is set to deliver more than £300 automated storage and retrieval million worth of savings by 2028 system will be capable of picking by streamlining the way storage more than 1,000 items an hour. and distribution are delivered and Roger West, Director Logistics restructuring the way contract Delivery at DE&S, said: “It was a negotiations are conducted. privilege to welcome the Minister With two warehouses and to MOD Donnington and a support building, it will be accompany him on a tour of the a central hub for storage and site and the Defence Fulfilment distribution of defence’s £30 Centre. billion inventory, including spare “The DFC will make a parts, food, clothing and medical significant contribution to us supplies. providing better, more efficient The Defence Minister said: storage, distribution and “This impressive building, that commodity procurement services will provide the armed forces with for our armed forces. what they need, wherever they are “The delivery of this facility in the world, is testament to DE&S is testament to the excellent
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Pictured clockwise from left: Tim Hulton-Harrop holding a book about his family history, his uncle Montagu Hulton-Harrop who was the first British pilot fatality of the Second Workd War, Montagu's grave at St Andrew's church in North Weald (Essex), Ace fighter pilot John Freeborn who killed Montagu during the friendly fire incident. Freeborn went on to have a stellar career with the RAF but never forgot the tragedy or Montagu (Main picture by Beth Squire)
14 desider October 2018 Feature “The German fighterpilot circled back around and shot him” Tim Hulton-Harrop’s uncle was the first fighter pilot to be killed in the Second World War. His father was shot down months later. He spoke to Desider editor Tom Morris about his incredible family history
I was told the day after John Freeborn killed my that is depicted in the film The Great Escape). uncle his hair turned white and stayed that way “He ejected from his plane and the German fighter for the rest of his life – I have no idea whether pilot circled back around and shot his kneecap off. A “that’s true, of course”, Tim Hulton-Harrop says. few inches higher and I wouldn’t be here. He is talking to me about Montagu Hulton- “Dad had a very bad stammer as a result of his Harrop’s unfortunate demise on September 6, 1939, experiences in Stalag Luft III so he didn’t really talk when he was shot in the back of the head by friendly about his or his brother’s involvement in the War.” fire from Freeman’s Spitfire. It is worth noting that Freeborn, who was This sorry set of circumstances made Tim’s uncle exonerated at court martial and went on to have a the first British pilot fatality of the Second World hugely distinguished career which saw him awarded War – just three days in – and his Hurricane the first the Distinguished Flying Cross & Bar for his efforts aircraft ot be shot down by a Spitfire. during the Battle of Britain and Dunkirk, never got History tells us that the incident, known as the over Montagu’s death. Battle of Barking Creek, was a catalogue of errors. Tim said: “John Freeborn did go and visit It started with a radar fault causing a false alarm Montagu’s grave not that long before his death to pay that unidentified aircraft erw e approaching over the his respects, as far as I am aware.” Essex coast, and resulted in a series of Hurricane and This is backed up by Freeborn, who, in 2009, went Spitfire aircraft being scrambled – manned by RAF on record saying: “I think about him (Montagu) pilots who had no experience of combat and little nearly every day. I always have done... I've had a good knowledge of German aircraft. life, and he should have had a good life too.” Ultimately, a combination of poor Tim, who joined the MOD straight from school communications, adrenalin and confusion resulted in 1977, remains pragmatic about the tragedy and in the command to open fire and Spitfire pilot John appears to hold no animosity towards Freeborn. Freeborn, who went on to become a flying ace, fatally “It was, as they say, the fog of war”, he said. shot Montagu and he was dead before his Hurricane “Much I have seen written about it suggests that aircraft hit the ground. Montagu’s death resulted in a much-needed revamp Tim, a Business Change manager in the Land of the RAF’s radar, identification procedures and Equipment domain, said: “As it happens my dad Cyril communications. was shot down in his Hurricane over Holland not “That helps me take a positive out of what was of long after his brother Montagu and he was a POW for course a great tragedy.” four years in Stalag Luft III (a POW camp in Poland
15 Picture: Jack Eckersley desider October 2018 DE&S People
On a great team, improving process and her love of Mayan culture in Mexico Sonya Ball is the Finance Business Partner to Director Land Equipment. Her role is to provide advice and guidance to project teams to ensure they can deliver what the armed forces need when they need it
What does your role involve? extremely rewarding when the What do you most enjoy about I am the Finance Business team succeeds. Given the size and your job? scale of what we do, it would be Partner to Director Land I love my job, it’s the best job impossible to do it alone. I really Equipment (LE). I provide I’ve had for a variety of different enjoy interacting and working analysis, understanding reasons. The one that stands out with others rather than being a and reporting on financial is the people I work with – that's lone role. I am very lucky to work performance within the LE what keeps me motivated. I also in a really strong team with great operating centre. I am involved think the fact that I get involved in people and I am very proud of in the end to end finance process, a variety of different things keeps what we deliver. providing advice and guidance my interest levels high. on a range of financial issues and What is your view on What do you enjoy doing in helping ensure that the accounts, transformation? financial forecast and plans are your spare time? I think embracing change is robust and accurate. Importantly I have two children, so I tend key – I always retain a positive for me this means, in turn, that to spend most weekends either outlook. There are different ways I play a role in ensuring that the at the side of a rugby pitch or of doing things to achieve the armed forces get the equipment watching drama performances. I same outcome, but the way we’ve and support they need when they really enjoy walking as a way of always done it isn’t necessarily need it. unwinding and often trek into the always the best. I always try and Welsh countryside at the weekend. contribute by challenging and What about your role is We also enjoy going as a family to gaining understanding, but once exciting, rewarding or watch Wales play rugby. interesting? a decision has been made then, My job is extremely varied if it is in the best interest of the What might surprise people and exciting. Every day brings organisation, you need to embrace about you? a different challenge and I it and move forward. I love the peace and quiet. I’m genuinely enjoy the work I do. I Why did you choose to pursue naturally quite outgoing but I deal with all financial aspects of a career in DE&S? really enjoy my own company and the operating centre, all of which a great night in for me involves I trained as a Chartered come with different issues so no a glass of wine and a good book. Accountant starting my career two days are the same. The best I also love my holidays and my as an auditor in an accountancy part of my job is the people I favourite place in the world to practice. I then worked in industry work with. They are a fantastic go is Mexico because we went on for 10 years in senior finance bunch of people, all of whom honeymoon 20 years ago. I find positions until I joined DE&S bring different qualities. I also the blend of relaxation and Mayan in 2015. What attracted me to find that in my job I’m constantly culture fascinating. DE&S was the variety of work it learning and developing, which undertakes, it’s purpose and the keeps my interest levels high. I am nature of the roles it offers. The particularly interested in helping flexibility that the organisation to improve things and my current offers was also key to my decision role allows me to do that. – I’m happy to work hard and put How important to you is in extra hours but it’s good to be teamwork? able to shape this around family Extremely important. I find it life.
17 desider October 2018 News
F-35 take-off technology site opens Pictured: Stuart Andrew, Minister for Defence Procurement, during his visit to Rolls-Royce (Picture by Beth Squire)
new state-of-the-art facility “The F-35 programme is the are around 200 British personnel making unique vertical biggest in the history of defence, at the American site testing the lift et chnology for fighter The opening of the and is supporting a hundred jobs aircraft. Ajets has been opened in Bristol by new LiftWorks facility here at LiftWorks – as well as DE&S’ Chief of Materiel (Air) Defence Minister Stuart Andrew. at Rolls-Royce thousands more right across the Air Marshal Julian Young said: The LiftWorks facility, which promises even greater country.” “The Short Take-off na d Vertical has opened at Rolls-Royce, makes enhancements to this The LiftSystem, which has Landing system on the UK’s the LiftSystem to provide F-35 a thrust strong enough to lift F-35B Lightning II fleet has been fighter jets with a fan propulsion pioneering technology 17 Mini cars and a clutch that performing exceptionally well for system that allows them to take off Air Marshal Julian Young, provides enough torque to turn the Lightning Force. We saw this over short distances, hover, swivel Chief of Materiel (Air) at the London Eye, was designed and earlier this Summer when F-35s mid-air and land vertically. DE&S developed by teams of engineers used the Vertical Landing Pads at It is vital to the jets being able at Rolls-Royce in Bristol and RAF Marham for the first time. to operate from aircraft carriers, Indianapolis. “The opening of the new and comes just weeks ahead of The LiftWorks facility is one of LiftWorks facility at Rolls- the stealth jets completing their many cutting-edge manufacturing Royce promises even greater historic first trials off the flight sites across the UK contributing to enhancements to this pioneering deck of Britain’s largest ever the wider Rolls-Royce LiftSystem technology.” warship, HMS Queen Elizabeth. contract for the F-35 programme. The site will support more than 40 per cent of the work under this 100 jobs in the area after more contract takes place in the UK, than £20 million was injected into supporting 900 jobs across the transforming the former Defence supply chain. Manufacturing building into an During the visit, the Minister advanced facility dedicated to unveiled a plaque marking the developing the unique technology. official opening of the Filton site Defence Minister Stuart Andrew before embarking on a tour of the said: “The incredibly powerful facility, where he met employees, systems made at this high-tech apprentices and graduates. facility mean our jets will be able The Minister also announced to operate from British sovereign that the UK has accepted its 16th territory anywhere across the jet, which is now set to fly into world’s seas to fight any adversaries Beaufort, South Carolina. There which threaten us.
18 Enhancing our capabilities to meet future defence needs
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Pictured clockwise from top left: Catherine on HMS Clyde, Christian and Catherine visited Stanley (the Islands’ tiny capital), the Atlantic Conveyor Memorial, they enjoyed an unexpected trip to see icebergs, Christian with an A400M as a backdrop, Catherine in the back of an A400M, houses in Stanley, a beautiful but sometimes dangerous landscape.
20 desider October 2018 Feature "When you are the tail-end of an 8,000-mile supply chain you can’t just pop out to get some nuts and bolts when you need them"
Two DE&S graduates on the A400M Atlas team have returned from an unforgettable visit to the Falkland Islands. They spoke to Desider editor Tom Morris
I was anxious about going because I didn’t know a host of exciting opportunities that will live long in what to expect, but it was an absolutely amazing the memory, most of which are thanks to 1312 Flight experience and I’m so grateful I did”, Catherine and the duo’s sponsor Squadron Leader Paul Bolton. “Giblin says. “We got to fly in an A400M for the first time and Catherine, a Project Professional graduate on the were joined by Typhoons and they suddenly put their A400M Atlas project team, was made aware of the afterburners on and shot off – it was just incredible”, chance to go to the Falklands by fellow graduate Catherine said. Christian McLean-Mair. “When we went in the back they started to do Christian, who holds a Masters in military history, some tactical manoeuvres. I couldn’t believe how identified an opportunity to visit the Falklands to agile such a massive aircraft could be!” gather vital information about the challenges in Christian added: “Then we flew with them and delivering and maintaining the A400M on the Islands did some iceberg hunting and found two. It was after its recent milestone deployment. unbelievable, we flew so low circling them you could After extensive research, a successful business see the vivid blue of the ice.” case and gaining military approval, the two found The pair also visited Stanley – the tiny capital themselves on-board a Voyager aircraft am king the (2,100 people) of the Islands, toured HMS Clyde, the 18-hour 8,000-mile journey to the archipelago in the offshore patrol vessel that serves as the Permanent South Atlantic Ocean and, before they knew it, were Guard ship, helped out during a local primary enjoying a tour around RAF Mount Pleasant – their school’s visit to the A400M hangar, visited one of the home for the four-day visit. Typhoon hangars (and got to sit in the cockpit), and The A400M is used in the Falklands for search and paid tribute at memorials located on the Islands. rescue, transport, and maritime patrols, ensuring that “We also went to this idyllic sandy beach where there is no unlicensed fishing vessels or intrusions there were warnings about landmines, it was very by unwelcome third parties. However, the extreme surreal that somewhere so beautiful could hold such weather conditions can make keeping the planes danger”, Catherine said. maintained and flying a challenge. Christian added: “It was an incredible trip and one Christian said: “When you are the tail-end of an very few people get the chance to experience. It’s an 8,000-mile supply chain you can’t just pop out to experience that neither of us will ever forget.” get some nuts and bolts when you need them. Even A400M Team Leader, James Dowson, said: “This ordering them can be a challenge, as the internet and has been a unique and memorable development phone connections are quite poor. As a result, they opportunity for Catherine and Christian, and also have to be extremely organised. very useful for helping the outputs of the Delivery “It was invaluable for us to meet both engineers Team. They have captured insightful feedback and the pilots to hear from them exactly what they from the aircrew and maintainers who operate and need to ensure there is not a gap in the capability. It support the aircraft no a daily basis in a demanding has given us information that is hugely relevant to our environment, which will allow us to improve our team and will support the continuing improvement support to A400M operations in the Falkland of the A400M aircraft us pport, both at home and in Islands.” more challenging environments.” While this was the main thrust of their visit, Christian and Catherine found themselves treated to
21 desider October 2018 News
Final maintenance on Tornado is a poignant moment Pictured: Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, and Officer Commanding No 9 (Bomber) Squadron, Wing Commander James Heeps, mark the completion of the final depth maintenance of a orT nado aircraft at RAF Marham, alongside personnel from RAF Marham, the DE&S Fast Air Support Team and BAE Systems (Picture courtesy of RAF Marham)
he final aircraft depth of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal the aircraft into the disposal phase maintenance has been Sir Stephen Hillier, a former We are incredibly of the CADMID cycle – a unique completed on Tornado as Tornado pilot who has flown the challenge given the scale of the proud of playing our Tthe aircraft en ars its retirement aircraft no operations. Tornado support solution.” from service in March 2019. Drawdown and disposal of part in keeping the The long-term future of RAF The depth maintenance, the the Tornado aircraft na d support aircraft maintained, Marham is as the home of the 246th carried out, was undertaken solution by the Fast Air Support supported and ready UK's F-35 Lightning fleet, but the at RAF Marham under the Team is well advanced. for operations until base will continue to support the Availability Transformation The Team has coordinated the the very end Tornado right up until the end for Tornado Aircraft Contract, disposal of surplus inventory, has of Tornado operations in March managed by the DE&S Fast Air closed dozens of contracts and David Herschell, DE&S Fast 2019. Support Team. managed the transfer of retired Air Support Team Tornado first flew in 1974 and aircraft ot other RAF units, has been in RAF service since including RAF Cosford, RAF 1979. It has provided the backbone Honington and RAF Wittering, for of RAF’s precision-strike force for training purposes. An aircraft ah s many years and has been deployed also been moved to the Imperial on operations almost constantly War Museum at Duxford. since the 1991 Gulf War. It can David Herschell, Tornado carry precision guided weapons, Deactivation Manager in the Storm Shadow air-launched DE&S Fast Air Support Team, cruise missiles, Brimstone air- said: “The Tornado has been an launched ground attack missiles, exceptional aircraft of r the RAF and reconnaissance and target over many years. The completion acquisition pods. of the final depth maintenance Following the successful minor on this aircraft was a poignant star maintenance by BAE Systems’ moment for us all. maintenance team, the aircraft “We are incredibly proud of (ZA449) was delivered back to the playing our part in keeping the RAF. aircraft am intained, supported and The significance of the occasion ready for operations until the very was marked by a visit of the Chief end. Concurrently, we’re managing
22 desider October 2018 Project ManagerNews Engineer Commercial Finance Graduate FIND YOUR FUTURE Business Manager Communications Project Controller Human Resources Security des.mod.uk A new home for careers at DE&S 23 desider October 2018 News
DE&S stepping up to boost BAME leadership Pictured: The Stepping Up summit at MOD Abbey Wood in full swing (Picture by Andrew Linnett)
E&S is championing in DE&S, and the Stepping Up She said: “I'm passionate about diversity in the workplace The Stepping Up programme is one way that we can using my experience to help young by helping people from invest in the future by supporting people reach their full potential programme aims to DBlack, Asian and Minority Ethnic people from BAME backgrounds and pleased to be contributing to (BAME) backgrounds to move inspire and empower from across the region to develop the development of my Stepping into higher management positions future BAME leaders, their leadership skills and reach Up mentee. She's a talented young across the South West. guiding them on how to their full potential.” woman with great potential and As a major employer in the develop their skills and DE&S Stepping Up programme it's a pleasure to see her grow region, the organisation is equipping them to apply participant Zahoor Ahmad added: in confidence as she progresses committed to ensuring that it for more senior roles “Working in large organisations, through the programme.” creates a diverse and inclusive which can tend to have few people This year’s programme will run workforce that is representative of Zahoor Ahmad, from black and ethnic minorities until December 2018, with next the population around Bristol. DE&S Stepping Up in senior level positions, makes it year’s applicants invited to apply Welcoming more than 70 people programme participant hard for middle managers from between October 1 and November from BAME backgrounds to its BAME groups to know how to 12 this year by visiting https://jobs. headquarters at MOD Abbey reach top level jobs. bristol.gov.uk/home.html Wood, DE&S hosted the first “The Stepping Up programme General enquiries will be Stepping Up summit to take place aims to inspire and empower responded to at steppingup@ in the city, inviting the aspiring future BAME leaders, guiding bristol.gov.uk. leaders to discuss the global trends them on how to develop their that will have an impact on their skills and equipping them to apply roles in business over the coming for more senior roles.” decades. As well as taking part in the o co te t t The Stepping Up programme programme and hosting the www.des.mod.uk was launched in January by Bristol Global Trends Summit, DE&S has Mayor Marvin Rees to develop provided mentors for Stepping leadership skills and provide Up participants from other learning opportunities for those organisations and will also offer from a BAME background who are short-term project placements for living and working in businesses participants to come and work at around Bristol. the organisation. Sir Simon Bollom, DE&S Sharon McKoy, Head of CEO, said: "We are committed to Corporate Communications, is improving diversity at all levels one such mentor.
24 THE UK MARITIME ENTERPRISE: Full conference details will be available in September 2018. The conference will include a IMPLEMENTING A NATIONAL SHIPBUILDING STRATEGY reception and a dinner onboard the historic ship HMS Warrior in Portsmouth.
A national conference that looks at progress to implement the United Kingdom’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. Speakers from the highest echelons of the industry and government will promote debate and discuss critical issues.
Wednesday 20 & Thursday 21 February 2019 in the Guildhall of the Maritime City of Portsmouth. Lead Sponsor
Organised by the Society of Maritime Industries www.maritimeindustries.org desider October 2018 News
Desider reaches a decade of celebrating the very best of DE&S Pictured: The changing face of Desider since it was first printed in 0082
his year marks Desider’s Ajax and Dreadnought, which appreciated and readers will 10th year of celebrating all have featured regularly in the be able to have their say in the the amazing achievements magazine and frequently attract new year, when there will be a Tof teams and individuals attention from regional, national readership survey to gather your throughout DE&S and Defence. and international media. thoughts – both good and bad. In Desider’s first ever edition But there are so many great Your feedback is important to – which featured a soldier with programmes at DE&S deserving us and will be analysed to see if a SA80 assault rifle – the editor of coverage, and doing just that we can do anything to make sure stated they wanted the magazine is a big part of Desider’s remit, so Desider remains what a Cabinet to be ‘useful, informative and please do get in touch if you feel Officee r view described as a ‘well entertaining’ and that mantra your team should feature. regarded, high quality product.’ remains. The magazine, which this But more than that, Desider month publishes its 123rd edition, wants to showcase to the has evolved significantly over the I believe it’s crucial wider audience the incredible past decade and in May this year achievements by people at DE&S we did a significant re-design. we have a platform sites across the country and We have concentrated on that allows us to further afield. presenting shorter, more digestible celebrate our amazing We have a dedicated workforce stories with a bigger emphasis on teams, staff and and are involved in some truly great pictures, more stories about achievements fantastic programmes – all with the people behind the continuing the purpose of providing the very success of DE&S and more use Tom Morris, Desider editor best equipment and support to our of colour to reflect the dynamic armed forces. nature of the organisation. DE&S, and now the Submarine But the team are always looking Delivery Agency (SDA), have for ways to improve and serve some huge programmes, including their readers the very best content. the Queen Elizabeth carriers, F-35, We hope the new look is
26 desider October 2018 News
Welsh defence industry showcase world-class products to Defence Minister Pictured: Stuart Andrew MP, Minister for Defence Procurement, with Richard Daniel, CEO Raytheon UK (Picture courtesy of Raytheon UK)
efence Minister Stuart systems as they continue to Mr Andrew was also given an Andrew saw first-hand the Wales is crucial to operate in a climate of intensifying insight into the important work crucial role Welsh firms threats.” being done by Kent Periscopes. the United Kingdom’s Dplay in the defence sector after a Mr Andrew’s tour of Welsh The company provides the two-day tour of leading military world-leading defence firms began at DECA Sealand, British Army with crucial suppliers in the country. industry, our armed which will be at the forefront periscopes and sights for armoured Defence invests £945 million forces, and their of maintaining the UK’s new personnel carriers, infantry in Welsh industry, and supports future capabilities supersonic F-35 Lightning Force fighting vehicles and tanks. more than 6,000 jobs in the nation, fighter jets. The minister’s final stop with leading firms such as Defence Stuart Andrew, Minister for Whilst at DECA, which will involved a visit to Qioptiq, a Electronics and Components Defence Procurement become a global repair hub for company that specialises in optics Agency (DECA), Kent Periscopes, the aircraft, eh announced the and photonics and provides crucial Qioptiq and Raytheon all providing F-35B Lightning has carried out night vision equipment to UK essential equipment to our armed its first trials armed with UK-built armed forces. forces. weapons (see page 10 for report). The relationship between the The minister also visited MOD and Welsh industry is of Raytheon, where he had the huge importance, which was chance to see the development of clearly demonstrated in the recent cutting-edge capabilities for the publication of the Dunne Review. British aerospace and defence Of the £945 million invested in sectors. the country through the MOD, The company’s technology £246m is with firms producing is used in some of the most weapons and ammunition. advanced aircraft urs veillance and Defence Minister Stuart Andrew intelligence systems in existence. said: “Wales is crucial to the United This includes Sentinel, the Kingdom’s world-leading defence UK’s most advanced manned industry, our armed forces and surveillance aircraft, na d the their future capabilities. Minister’s visit coincided with “The country’s entrepreneurship, the company celebrating 10 years innovation and skills ensure our of Sentinel in service and of it brave servicemen and women are exceeding 30,000 operational equipped with the latest cutting- flying hours. edge equipment and intelligence On the second day of his tour,
27 desider October 2018 DE&S People
60 second spotlight "I'm quite happy to pick up a microphone and sing a couple of songs on a karaoke night out!"
in Information Capability Management with the Defence Paul Ng Academy and hope to complete my dissertation in the next nine months, so I'm currently Job reading a lot of academic journal articles. I enjoy running, skiing, Engineering Manager in Artillery photography, astrophotography Systems and am getting into bouldering (climbing without ropes) with my Your route into DE&S? daughter. I also help run Code Club at our local primary school I was accepted onto the MOD and help with the children's team Student bursary scheme in at church. If work meetings allow, 1998, then joined the Defence I try to attend one of the weekly Engineering and Science Group events run by the Abbey Wood graduate engineering scheme. I Christian Fellowship. spent a few years working for the Defence Procurement Agency What are you most proud of? on the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (now Voyager) before then Being a civil servant and 'serving going to work in Main Building, others' doesn't sound particularly London, for a couple of years in glamorous, but I'm glad to have Resources and Plans. I came found a job that I enjoy and to to Abbey Wood and the newly be part of several teams working formed DE&S in 2007 as part alongside dedicated, professional of the Artillery Systems project and interesting individuals who team. I have remained here ever are delivering and supporting kit since working as a project officer, for our armed forces. project manager or engineer on a range of projects. If you were sent to a desert island, what three things Your claim to fame? would you take with you?
I have a few very low-grade A bible, decent coffee and a big claims to fame. I ate breakfast box of lego. at the same time in a (very large) mess dining room as Prince What irritates you the most? Harry and have been filmed by local TV in the overnight queue Lots of things irritate me, but I find for Wimbledon tickets. I have also I become even more irritable if I What would surprise people been filmed having a BBQ in a don't get to run or cycle at least about you? park in Melbourne, in torrential twice a week. rain, on what was the coldest I'm quite happy to pick up a recorded Christmas day. What is your favourite place in microphone and sing a couple of Do you or the world? songs on a karaoke night out! Your advice to anyone? someone you Anywhere with a downhill ski Focus on what you’re doing in the slope and fresh snow. However, know deserve their present, admit it when you make Breckenridge, Colorado, stands 60 seconds in the a mistake, forgive often and take out: a friend and I came across time to listen to stories. We learn an expert run called ‘eye of spotlight? a lot from stories and are often the needle, experts only’ and Email inspired by them. someone had added a note [email protected] underneath saying, ‘no seriously, What do you do when you’re experts only’. We managed to get away from work? down that run in one piece and the adrenaline rush at the end of I'm currently doing a Masters that was quite something.
28 desider October 2018 News
DE&S employees continue to dial up efforts in local community Pictured: Retired engineer Bryan Curry, leader of the 2nd Stoke Gifford Rainbows DE&S’ Alix Evans and Staff Sergeant Richard Bagenda, a chief engineer at DE&S
E&S employees have would allow it to be a safe, water helped a Girlguiding tight library. group transform a disused Richard was also assisted Dtelephone box into an exciting toy by Bryan Curry, a retired local library for local children. resident, who previously worked Alix Evans, who works in the as a maintenance engineer for BT Land Domain and is leader of telephone. the 2nd Stoke Gifford Rainbows, Richard said: “Working as an said the girls wanted to help engineer at DE&S I knew I had other children less fortunate than the skills to help and I wanted to themselves after they visited the get involved in such a valuable North Bristol Foodbank. community project. It is great Now, eight months on, the to see it opened and ready for telephone box has been officially service.” opened during a ceremony With help from DE&S staff Working as an attended by members of the to collect tokens for the Airbus engineer at DE&S I Stoke Gifford Parish Council and community awards, the Rainbows knew I had the skills Girlguiding Bristol and South won 2nd place and also drew on Gloucestershire Assistant County the specialist skills in the local to help and I wanted Commissioner Laura Whiteway. community to help with the to get involved in such The red box has had a major project. a valuable community facelift na d been filled with good Alix added: “Working for DE&S project quality second hand toys and we are always thinking about our books ready for children in the customers and the community Staff Sergeant Richard local community to borrow six we serve, and I take this into Bagenda, a chief engineer days a week. my volunteer work with the at DE&S Alix said: “The girls have put in Girlguiding group. so much work, but it has all been “We work hard with the girls worth it.” to encourage them to think In order to get the Toy Library about their community and this opened, the group had to obtain is a perfect way for them to do permission from the parish something visible and positive in council before enlisting Staff their area.” If you are interested in getting Sergeant Richard Bagenda – a Donations of good quality toys involved in community schemes chief engineer with DE&S – to are now accepted – please email you can contact the DE&S provide a free survey of the box 2ndstokegiffordrainbows@gmail. volunteers network who can and recommend repairs which com signpost to local organisations.
29 desider October 2018 DE&S People Champs, charity and getting a kick out of raising cash
ritish Forces Post Office employee Sergeant Jenn Leonard gave up some of her holiday Bthis year to volunteer at some very special camps. pprentices from Defence manufacturing workshop at CEMAST – Jenn is a long-time supporter of the Families' Munitions Gosport took part in Fareham College’s centre of excellence Activity Breaks (FAB) charity – an organisation that a Scrapheap Challenge-style for engineering, manufacturing and A runs fun-packed activity breaks for bereaved military competition designed to test their advanced skills training. families. flair for manufacturing and ability to This year’s competition was won by In August she took part in her fifth camp – this year work as a team. Phase 3 students: Matthew Harrison, in Brecon, Wales. Eighteen apprentices, all working Ashley Biginton, George Ballard, Joe Camps are held across the UK for children up to 19 towards an advanced apprenticeship in Salmon and Thomas Brading (pictured years old who have suffered the loss of a loved one mechanical manufacturing engineering, above). serving in the Armed Forces, whether that be a parent, took part in ‘Phase Wars’, an annual They impressed judges with their sibling or guardian. competition hosted by Fareham V2 Piston Engine, made using a They can take part in activities such as canoeing, College. combination of materials including climbing and abseiling, with volunteers, who are all Working in partnership with Defence brass and steel. The initial prototypes trained in supporting children and young adults facing Munitions Gosport, it pits 1st, 2nd and were constructed ahead of the bereavement, acting as their mentors. 3rd phase apprentices against one competition using CEMAST’s extensive Jenn said: “It's very rewarding – especially when you another. 3D printing facilities. The judges see kids who are very shy when they arrive come out The apprentices were given credited them on their exemplary of themselves as the week goes on, interacting with one week, and a budget of £200 workmanship and fabrication skills, other children, making new friends and, best of all, for materials, to design and make turning out a beautifully polished piece having lots of laughs and special moments that they whatever they wished in the of engineering. can take away with them.”
he Poppy Appeal Team The competition, staged at Abbey Wood held on September 26, is one of Ta six-a-side football a series of events including tournament, raising almost the sponsoring of waterproof £700 for the Bristol Poppy poppies to create a garden of Appeal. remembrance at Abbey Wood. In 2018 The Royal British Adam Hodson, from the Legion is leading the nation in Land domain at DE&S, runs the saying ‘Thank You’ to the First annual competition. World War generation who He said: “We are extremely served, sacrificed themselves grateful to all of those who took and changed our world. part in this year’s six-a-side The ‘Thank You 100’ competition. The money raised football tournament, staged to at the event will contribute to celebrate and remember that our efforts raising as much 100 years ago, the First World cash as possible for the Bristol War ended and a new world Poppy Appeal.” began, consisted of 16 teams from across the domains.
30 desider October 2018 DE&S People
the MOD Lottery June "H" Rowbotham MOTTO winners £10,000 Sue French, Corsham Award presented £2,500 Lynne Bennion, Harrogate E&S employee Laird Evans Humphrey “H” Rowbotham £1,000 Ruth Jones, ABW presented the “H” Rowbotham worked for 25 years in DE&S and £500 Stephanie Partridge, ABW Memorial Award to Dr Karen its predecessors, establishing the D £250 Alan Anderson Glasgow Lane from BAE Systems for her Technical Enabling Services Human outstanding contribution to Human Factors Group to act as a focal point £100 Stuart Hepton, Aldershot Factors Integration (HFI). for HFI policy coordination and the Mandy Gregory, Gosport Laird (pictured far left) handed provision of practical guidance to over the award in his role as Chair Project Teams. He died in August Christine Selway, ABW of the MOD-Industry HFI Steering 2009. Erica Verity, Portsmouth Group, paying tribute to the energy, The “H” Rowbotham Memorial Simon Carder, Salisbury enthusiasm and commitment Dr Lane Award is presented annually by DE&S, Derek Braddon, Plymouth (pictured) channels into HFI research Cranfield University and eamT Defence and implementation. Information to an individual who has Peter Coe, Corsham Dr Lane is head of Human Factors in made an outstanding contribution to Mark Bullock, Okehampton BAE Systems Defence Information and HFI. Grant Johnstone, ABW Training Services, in addition to being Dr Lane was nominated by Mike director of the HFI Defence Technology Boardman (pictured far right) of the Annette Matton, Whitehall Centre and, more recently, the highly Defence, Science and Technology Albert Davies, Gosport successful Defence Human Capability Laboratory. Luke Massey, Corsham Science and Technology Centre. Wendy Hints, Hereford Lee Dymond, ABW Jack Piper, Feltham Rita Harper, Tidworth Johanne Debnam, Whitehall Ian Taylor, Whitehall Jeremy Lambert, ABW Beverly Devlin, ABW
Last month's missing word was: Carrier
Y R E L L I T R A Y F O W J K A E N T N U B W M S T Y W T Q D A Y E L O Word Search I K F T Z M G P E F U I R A Y A S C Artillery Diversity Mexico S Y E S O Y Q D I E T A N O N E V E Ajax Employee Pilot R F A L K L A N D T O M L U L R X R Boxer Falkland Post office Brecon Karaoke Selfie E O T I N C I Y L K F P E F M W O B Charity Library Spitfire V E S J E H X P E G M I I X J M B T Community Marham Tornado I F E D E A Z D D E C E R E I A O J Decade Mentor Wales
D S L Z J R Y R A R B I L E V C G C Find which word or name is missing from this C C A A W I M E N T O R E X O B O M wordsearch. U E W N S T Q C H N C J Y M V V U L Note - they may appear vertically, Q M Y X S Y X R V U M A Z B R N L Y horizontally, diagonally, forward or backward. T M H M S Z W P H W S A M E H X C N
S N U F T P O S T O F F I C E U U H
31 desider October 2018 Recruitment Case
cost and quality. I am involved across a wide range Study of activities, including stakeholder management, financial management of the project, governance David Ball, Joint Fires Synthetic and compliance, strategic planning and delivery, Trainer Project Manager gives his contracting external delivery partners and managing and supporting my team. This means every day insight into some of the benefits of is different and presents fresh opportunities and challenges. I also get to work with some interesting working for the organisation simulators, be at the forefront of using augmented and mixed reality technology and regularly engage the gaming industry, who are at the cutting edge of Name much of the technology we are buying. David Ball What are the opportunities to develop and Job title: progress within your function? Joint Fires Synthetic Trainer (JFST) Project Manager There are development and support teams in the Project Management (PM) function to help you How long have you worked for DE&S? progress, but even without them, if you work hard Two and a half years and are prepared to learn and not give up, you will gain recognition and be given opportunity. I joined, Why did you choose to pursue a career in DE&S? as a deputy PM, with no MOD experience and very Although I had some project management quickly my line manager recognised my ability to experience, I thought DE&S would be an excellent learn, apply myself and remain tenacious in my place to really learn my trade. There are a large approach to delivery. Within seven months I was variety of training opportunities and within the first temporarily promoted to PM and six months later six months of being here I passed the Association I was given the role on a full-time basis. Within the for Proposal Management Professional course and last six weeks I’ve been given a temporary promotion exam and had training in High Value Investment and am leading all new acquisitions in the Training Appraisals and the week-long “Introduction to and Simulation Systems Programme. It is an exciting Defence simulation” course. I have also been given opportunity to share the knowledge I’ve gained and real responsibility and decision-making authority, continue to develop at a higher level. which is great for my personal development. What do you most enjoy about your job? What are you looking forward to in your role over I really enjoy problem solving and planning the the next 12 months? progression of the project. We are just hitting the competition phase of our project, where we are taking the Army’s detailed What’s your ambition? requirement to the market for suppliers to compete To expand my skills and experience and ultimately to provide a solution to meet the required capability. I manage massive complex projects. am really looking forward to seeing the solutions and down-selecting a preferred supplier. It’s when we will Would you recommend DE&S to others as a great really feel progress and be on the way to delivering a place to work? o co te t t critical training capability for the Army. Absolutely. It is very inclusive, there are load of www.des.mod.uk professional and personal/recreational opportunities. What does your role entail? From a work/life balance perspective it is As the JFST project manager I am the person tremendous, with a good pension, flexi time and a ultimately responsible for delivering JFST to time, diverse range of interesting people to work with.
32 Picture: Jack Eckersley Picture:
WORK FOR DE&S For more info and job opportunities visit: www.des.mod.uk
33 desider October 2018 Recruitment
Here are six great reasons to work for DE&S
Bonuses & Pension Flexible Recognition Our Alpha pension is Working conservatively valued at 21% Annual bonus and one- of your salary. Most private Balancing work and life, off payments based on companies only offer 6-12% various working patterns performance for going above and beyond
Professional Holiday Facilities Development 25 days rising to 30 days after We provide a modern, 5 years safe and convenient work Choose a career path that’s environment right for you
For even more reasons see our 'Little Book of Big Benefits' at www.des.mod.uk
34 desider October 2018 Recruitment
Future Vacancies Systems Designer DE&S Bristol £30,000 - £39,000pa Professional II Estimated timeline: Launching mid November 2018 Post type Permanent Job Description: As a Systems Designer you will provide expert advice and guidance in supporting the delivery of Network and Systems Design solutions, relevant to their specialist area. This will include regular interaction with both internal and external parties. Commercial Executive DE&S & SDA Bristol £56,000 - £78,000pa Senior Professional Estimated timeline: Launching mid October 2018 Post type Permanent Job Description: With a commercial delegation of up to £100m, you will be responsible for a portfolio of teams and requirements, with a delivery and support focus, providing commercial leadership. You'll be accountable for ensuring commercial sourcing strategies within your portfolio contribute to the government/departmental procurement agenda. These requirements will see you dealing extensively with UK and international suppliers, throughout the supply chain, on complex and contentious contract negotiations and contract management, as well as having significant responsibility for managing and developing employees. You will develop and implement change that will significantly impact the overall organisation and will be involved in strategic planning for your immediate area of responsibility. Senior Commercial Manager DE&S & SDA Bristol £42,000 - £59,000pa Professional I Estimated timeline: Launching mid October 2018 Post type Permanent Job Description: You'll deal extensively with suppliers on complex and contentious contract negotiations and contract management, as well as having significant responsibility for managing and developing employees. You could be the commercial lead within a delivery team, responsible for all commercial issues, working closely with the delivery lead, or part of the corporate team working on strategic issues and setting the direction of the commercial function. Whichever role you are in, you will develop and implement significant new ideas within your immediate area of responsibility, which impacts on other service areas. WORK FOR DE&S For more info and job opportunities visit: www.des.mod.uk
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