Pall-Ex has won the Silver Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) award from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) for providing training and jobs to former military personnel.
The pallet network, which is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, is the only pallet network to achieve the silver standard and one of only 31 organisations in the East Midlands to hold the award
As a signatory, Pall-Ex seeks to enable former Armed Forces personnel and their families to forge a career in logistics, providing access to training and jobs.
Kevin Buchanan, Pall-Ex chief executive, pictured with sergeant Jason Bate and major Bruce Spencer of the 162 Regiment RLC, said: “Pall-Ex is fully committed to being an armed forces employer and this recognition underlines the efforts we have made to support ex-military personnel with developing new careers in the logistics industry.
“Many of our team members at Pall-Ex and around our network have joined us following successful careers in the army, navy or air force, bringing important skills to our entire operation.
“We are indebted to all armed forces personnel for the contributions they have made to protect our country, so we believe it is our duty to provide new opportunities and rewarding roles; we continue to provide training and support to help the right candidates gain the qualifications they need.
“Throughout our network we have HGV drivers who trained for their Class 1 driver’s licence while in the armed forces and are now utilising those skills in civilian life.
“We are also continuing our charity partnership with Combat Stress, who provide vital mental health support services to veterans.”
Mark Steel, Pall-Ex MD of its international division, spent 13 years in the RAF as a propulsion technician working on fighter aircraft before joining the logistics industry.
Mark comments: “There are a huge number of transferable skills that ex-military personnel can bring to the logistics industry, including problem solving and teamwork, which are vital to every role.
“Many of us now use the same skills and knowledge in our day-to-day jobs within the Pall-Ex network, whether that is driving an HGV, team leading or planning operations.”
Cat Suckling, MOD assistant regional employer engagement director said: “This ERS Silver Award recognises employers who have actively demonstrated their support for the Armed Forces community.
“We are delighted that Pall-Ex has chosen to support the Armed Forces community, which includes veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, and the spouses and partners of those serving, as well as proactively promoting rewarding career and training opportunities throughout its network.”
Job opportunities at Pall-Ex can be viewed at www.pallex.co.uk/vacancies. Driver jobs are listed on www.pallexdrivers.co.uk.