FDM Group, a professional services provider with a focus on IT, has been presented with a Silver Award by the MOD Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) in acknowledgement of its support for the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant…

FDM signed the Armed Forces Corporate Covenant in July 2016 continuing to pledge to support HM Forces by upholding the Covenant’s key principles.

The covenant is a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the British Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly. Involving government, businesses, local authorities, charities and members of the public, it has two underlying principles: that members of the armed forces should face no disadvantage compared to others in the provision of public and commercial services; and that special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given the most, including the injured and the bereaved.

In 2014, FDM established its Ex-Forces Programme which helps individuals transition from the Services to employment in the commercial sector. At the end of the training, individuals become FDM Consultants and are ready to be placed with clients. To date, FDM has so far trained and placed over 200 ex-servicemen and women drawn from all ranks across each Service.

FDM Ex-Forces Consultants undertake a training programme tailored to their role preparing them for life on site. Courses cover professional skills development, exposure to the commercial sector and specific training in preparation to be a Project Manager, Business Analyst, Data and Operational Analyst, Tester, Developer or for a role in Production Support.

Rod Flavell, FDM Group’s Chief Executive Officer, explains: “It’s a great honour to receive this award in recognition of the work we do to support ex-members of the Armed Forces. The programme benefits hugely from being led by a dedicated team of ex-services personnel who intuitively understand and interpret the career history of ex-Forces Consultant and understand the transition process.”