Testimonials

Alstom pledged its support to the Armed Forces by signing the Armed Forces Covenant in 2016. In early 2021, Alston acquired Bombardier, which had done likewise in 2018. In order to ensure coherence across the business, SaluteMyJob was asked to facilitate a strategic workshop to ensure coherence across the business and to refresh the combined company’s commitments to support the Armed Forces under the singular, Alstom brand.

The aims of the workshop were to:
- Review delivery of Alstom and Bombardier’s AFC pledges
- Understand good practice
- Agree what a successful Armed Forces programme for Alstom would look like
- Agree core components of the programme and how they would impact positively on the business
- Identify activity owners and responsibilities
- Set measures of success

Representatives from across Alstom's business, HR and comms representatives attended the workshop. The architects of 2 Armed Forces programmes run by other companies in the rail sector (Siemens and Canadian Pacific Railway) presented summaries as examples of good practice and as the basis of discussion. Having set a strategic goal to 'become an employer of choice to the UK Armed Forces community', Alstom chose to develop their own variant of the 'Attract, Hire and Retain' model that has proven successful for Canadian Pacific Railway and took a series of short, medium and longer term actions to deliver a re-energised commitment to the Armed Forces.

Alison Knight, Head of Talent UK&I at Alstom, said "We found the workshop facilitated by SaluteMyJob to be informative, stimulating and enjoyable. The 2 presentations of programmes being run by other companies in our sector were excellent examples of the activities of fellow 'Forces Friendly' employers. The engaging style of the workshop enabled us to have a lively discussion, resulting in a series of practical actions for us to develop, over time, into a structured, sustainable programme to deliver the company's pledges to support the Armed Forces. The SaluteMyJob have a deep knowledge of the challenges facing both employers and jobseekers and we liked the focus on constructing a programme designed to impact positively on the business, as well as support the MOD's goals."

Andrew Jackson, Managing Director of SaluteMyJob, said "Alstom is typical of many employers that are keen to develop programmes to support the Armed Forces and to attract talent from a skilled and culturally diverse community. Planning and implementing structured, sustainable and measurable programmes is key to reaping the benefits of such programmes - and fulfilling pledges made by Armed Forces Covenant signatories. It was hugely encouraging to witness the enthusiasm and determination of the Alstom team to support veterans and others from the Armed Forces community".

Leaving the Army after 10 years was a significant life change. SaluteMyJob made it a smoother transition. The tailored support, from job matching to resume assistance, was instrumental in finding the right civilian role. Within months, I secured a logistics position in a leading company. SaluteMyJob didn't just help me change careers; they helped me find a fulfilling civilian path

Transitioning from the Royal Marines to civilian life was a challenge, but SaluteMyJob made it seamless. The Pathways programme's focus on practical training and mentorship provided the tools I needed. With their support, I secured a role in security management. SaluteMyJob understands the unique skills veterans bring to the table, and their commitment to our success is unmatched

As a former RAF Pilot, I was unsure how my skills would translate outside the military. SaluteMyJob's Pathways programme not only understood but also celebrated my unique background. The programme's targeted training and networking opportunities helped me land a position in aviation consultancy. SaluteMyJob made my transition a rewarding journey, and I'm grateful for the doors they opened for me.

After 12 years of dedicated service in the British Army, transitioning to civilian life felt like a daunting challenge. Fortunately, SaluteMyJob was there to offer support. Through their Pathways programme, I found a tailored approach to career transition that perfectly matched my skills with civilian opportunities. The mentorship I received was invaluable, guiding me through the intricacies of the job market. Thanks to SaluteMyJob, I successfully transitioned into a leadership role in a major logistics company. The Pathways programme isn't just a service; it's a lifeline for veterans like me.

As an RAF Aircraft Technician, my technical skills were well-honed, but translating them into a civilian career seemed like a complex task. SaluteMyJob made this transition seamless. The Pathways programme provided me with targeted training, ensuring my skills were recognised in the civilian job market. The support I received extended beyond technical guidance; it included resume assistance, interview coaching, and introductions to employers who valued my military background. Today, I am proudly working in the aerospace industry, and I thank SaluteMyJob for helping me soar into this new chapter of my career.

After serving in the Royal Navy for 15 years, the prospect of transitioning to civilian life was both exciting and uncertain. SaluteMyJob's Pathways programme proved to be the perfect ally in this journey. The programme not only recognised the transferable skills I gained in the Navy but also provided a comprehensive network of employers looking for veterans like me. The support from SaluteMyJob was personalised, addressing the unique challenges veterans face during transition. Today, I am thriving in a management role in the cyber security industry, and I credit SaluteMyJob for setting me on this course for success.