18 November 2024
At The FirstPort Group, we believe in creating a workplace where veterans feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. This commitment resonates with Rikki, a veteran and a Head of Operations at The FirstPort Group. Rikki shares with us his journey from the Navy to civilian employment, and why he believes The FirstPort Group is a great fit for veterans.
Rikki’s armed forces journey began when he joined the Royal Navy in 1997. Inspired by conversations with servicemen while working in Plymouth’s dockyard, he was drawn to the opportunities for camaraderie, structure, and personal growth that the military offered. He served until 2003 and says the transition out of the military was not easy. “When you leave the military, you almost feel a bit like an orphan, it’s like I’d been thrown out of the house at 16,” he recalls. Fortunately, Rikki quickly secured a job in security, progressing later to roles within the police.
Finding structure at FirstPort
As Rikki progressed in his career, he came to appreciate the importance of a job with clear structure, a strong support network, and leadership that allows people to grow and contribute.
He explains: “FirstPort has a clear management structure. If you’re performing well, they trust you to get on with it. And if you want to progress, they’ll give you those opportunities.”
Rikki says he often encourages former military colleagues to consider roles in The FirstPort Group, particularly those who miss the stability and purpose they had in the service, adding: “What veterans want is stability and function. They want to know there’s a clear management structure. But they also want the independence to make their own impact, which FirstPort offers.”
The value of veteran skills
Rikki believes veterans bring unique transferable skills to civilian roles. He explains: “The most important thing is to recognise the skills you bring from the military – discipline, resilience, adaptability – and find a place where these are valued. FirstPort is one of those places. There’s stability here and a sense of purpose.”
There are also new skills to learn whilst working at The FirstPort Group. “My communication skills have gone through the roof since joining,” Rikki says, emphasising how working with a diverse team has helped him bridge gaps and engage effectively with people from all walks of life.
He added: “The principles I learned in the service – honour, respect, loyalty – are values FirstPort also embraces. It’s a place where veterans can continue to be part of something bigger.”
The FirstPort Group is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, showcasing its commitment to the Armed Forces Community. This includes promoting the organisation as an Armed Forces-friendly business and recognising military skills and qualifications in its recruitment and selection processes.
To search our latest jobs in your location and across the UK, click here. Or you can contact our recruitment team at careers@firstport.co.uk.
