Transitioning from the Armed Forces to a career in tech consultancy

By Mike Rogers??

"After graduating with a degree in engineering, I began my career as a strategy consultant before joining the Army in 2001 as an officer in the Intelligence Corps. This military role closely mirrored what attracted me to consulting: analysing, interpreting, and communicating information to support decision-making. Returning to consulting after my time in the Army was a great way to continue doing what I was good at, however, as a lot of people find, transitioning back out of military life had its challenges.?

From consulting to the Army?

I was attracted to consulting as a career that offered exposure to lots of different and interesting companies in a way that enabled me to make an impact and a tangible difference. The analysis and communication skills that I developed and used in my engineering degree and as a consultant seamlessly transitioned to my role in the Intelligence Corps. However, the decision-making that I supported in the military had far greater and immediate consequences. The Army also allowed me to maintain a balance between mental challenges and physical activity, boosting both my health and happiness.??

From the Army Back to consulting?

The military focusses on early leadership development, requiring officers to manage diverse teams, often composed of individuals older and more experienced. This can be very challenging, however, alongside developing physical robustness, the military helps develop great mental robustness, self-confidence, teamwork, and responsibility. All of these are hugely valuable in any walk of life and proved invaluable as I navigated my transition from the Army during the financial crisis of 2008.??

Preparing for civilian jobs?

At the time, there were few schemes in place with companies that actively looked to hire ex-military people. To help translate the experience and skills I had enjoyed developing in the military into easily marketable capabilities, I gained project management qualifications and pursued an MBA at the 英国利兹大学 . Having had an early career as a consultant, an MBA was always something that I had thought of completing, and studying in Leeds provided an opportunity to put down roots in the area where I had decided to settle.??

Challenges and opportunities for military leavers?

Military leavers often face challenges where recruiters focus on specific technical expertise or experience rather than the behaviours that will benefit an organisation. The military instills a very strong work ethic, resilience, and a unique problem-solving approach as ex-military people are often energised by a challenge and will seek to solve it and improve things for the future. This mindset can create tension, however, if it managed and harnessed well, it can help organisations to super-charge their teams.??

Finding the right job?

Like many, I found it challenging to open the right doors to roles in Leeds and Yorkshire, so I headed back to London for a role with Deloitte in its Programme Leadership practice. This was a perfect match for the project and programme delivery experience I could demonstrate and qualify. I very quickly found a supportive community in this part of Deloitte, with many other consultants having military backgrounds – clearly, we had the transferrable skills that translated well to being programme professionals.?

Business analysis?

My experience within the Intelligence Corps and other roles within the military, where analysis, problem-solving, attention to detail, and decision-making are part of the day-to-day, could also have set me on a path to a role as business analyst. However, I knew that I liked organising and coordinating things too much to not go down the programme delivery path.?

Cybersecurity?

With the increasing reliance on technology and the protection of IT systems, many military leavers are very well trained, sometimes more so than their civilian contemporaries, for careers in cybersecurity. The discipline and structure that the military provides can really help people excel in this field.?

Help is at hand?

Since I left the military in 2008, I think there has been a significant change in attitudes to military leavers, and many companies now have established recruitment programmes that target ex-service personnel. These schemes are often supported by ex-military people who have been successful at making the transition, and their experience, coaching, and mentoring can greatly assist others to acheive the same, whilst adding a huge amount of value to the companies that they work for.?

Financial realities and career progression?

I do think it is important to keep your eye on the long game. Initial expectations of salary and position may not be realistic, however, most of my peers who've had the opportunity to demonstrate skills developed through their military service, have often passed their non-military colleagues once they've started work.

Every military individual's transition experience is unique. Some may have a clear career path in mind, while others might be unsure. Organisations that have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and actively recruit ex-military personnel offer excellent opportunities for these individuals to thrive in the civilian workforce. Having a buddy or someone that understands the value that you can bring is incredibly helpful."

Reach out to Mike ?

Mike is always happy to listen and share advice based on his own journey from Army to private sector consultancy. You can connect here or email [email protected].??