504 Reserve Squadron welcomed business leaders and employers from across East Midlands and East Anglia to their inaugural Employers’ Reception on Wednesday 17th May at Royal Air Force Wittering.
Image By: AS2 Georgina Callaway
The evening was hosted in 3 Mobile Catering Squadron’s hangar with Support Force’ Reservists of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force Band providing superb musical accompaniment.
504 Squadron Honorary Air Commodore Veronica Pickering officially opened the reception, and guests enjoyed a range of capability demonstrations showcasing the plethora of Logistics and Engineering activities 504 Squadron Reservists undertake. There was also a tour of the RAF Wittering Heritage Centre hangar and delicious food served by Reservist Chefs.
Image By: AS2 Georgina Callaway
Phillip Goddard-Brooks-Stephenson from Gold Employer Recognition Scheme award holder, KuKu Connect, provided an inspiring talk on the benefits and considerations of business partnerships with the Armed Forces, while Regional Employer Engagement Director, Bruce Spencer outlined the importance of businesses and organisations’ supporting the Armed Forces Covenant.
Image By: AS2 Georgina Callaway
He said: “The training benefit RAF Reservists receive has an annual value to the employer of around £10,000. These transferrable skills and the inherent confidence that comes with military training brings enormous benefit to the workplace.”
504 Squadron aims to strengthen partnerships with civilian employers to promote awareness of RAF Reserves’ contribution to Defence, optimise collaborative support to serving Reservists and promote RAF Reserve opportunities among employees. The team is launching a series of virtual Employers’ Coffee Mornings culminating in a collaborative event with Nottingham University.
Image By: AS2 Georgina Callaway
Dean of Nottingham University Business School, Professor David Park said: “This was an excellent event at RAF Wittering with an amazing group of colleagues. Lots to inspire!”
Squadron Leader Kaye Slater, Officer Commanding 504 Squadron, said: “It was fantastic to celebrate the support of our Reservists’ employers and build new partnerships with local business leaders. The understanding, support and encouragement of civilian employers makes all the difference to those who volunteer to train and serve with 504 Squadron.”
Image By: AS2 Georgina Callaway
Local businesses are welcome to join 504’s Virtual Coffee Mornings, to find out more, please email [email protected]. You can find out more about the Employer Recognition Scheme at https://eastmidlandsrfca.co.uk/employer-engagement-supporting-reservists/employer-recognition-scheme/
