"With a 24-year military career as both a soldier and officer, finding an organisation in my second career that met my professional challenges and aligned with my values was crucial. My initial role in a large consultancy, although working on MOD projects and contributing to defence, made me feel unheard in a vast environment. Fortunately, CDS DS provided a fantastic opportunity to lead a talented group of Risk & Governance Consultants. In the three months since becoming a Practice Lead, I haven’t looked back. Working with a team of professional and security-cleared cybersecurity consultants on a daily basis is a privilege. The continuous stream of positive feedback from satisfied clients humbles me as I lead such an amazing team."
"Kev Pinder had a 34-year career in the RAF, starting as an electronics technician and later becoming an Engineering Officer. He served in various locations, including the Falkland Islands, Iraq, and Afghanistan. In 2015, he left the RAF to join CDS DS in Cyprus after working in an MOD intelligence policy job. Kev is an experienced engineering and project manager, specialising in leading large and complex teams. He currently heads the Operational Support business unit, which has grown significantly and now consists of 55 individuals embedded with the MoD, providing direct services for critical strategic outputs."
"I am proud to have served for over 22 years as a soldier and officer, and I believe that my journey wouldn't be possible without the British Army. At CDS DS, we take great pride in employing a significant number of veterans and reservists. We recognise the valuable transferable skills they bring, allowing us to collaborate closely with our clients in the defence sector, understanding the complexities of defence operations. I am proud to work for CDS DS, as they value not just me but all those who have served, understanding the true value that veterans offer."
"As a long-time veteran (left the RN in 2006), I joined CDS DS as the Head of CS&IA Services in Jan 2020 to formally establish a new business unit. Since then, the team has grown from 12 to 30+. During this time, we have recruited a good percentage of veterans and service leavers. I've also talked to many service leavers with the offer to help reassure and help them as they transition to civvy life.
The quality of those veterans and services leavers who were already in or who have joined my team since, and those who I have spoken to and worked with along the way, has been outstanding. I'm proud that the Armed Forces continue to develop and turn out such high-quality people and hope to provide more opportunities for veterans in my team into the future."
"Michael Daley, a former Royal Signals member with 23 years of service, sought a new challenge and transitioned during the initial COVID lockdown. Despite many companies suspending recruiting, Michael connected with Martin, the Head of Cyber at CDS DS, through a LinkedIn introduction. Starting as a Senior Consultant, he was later promoted to Principal Consultant and subsequently became the Technical Assurance Practice Lead. In this role, Michael oversees a Digital Forensics Unit and develops capabilities in PenTesting, Technical Security Architecture, and Incident Response.
CDS Defence and Security, a part of Bailie Group, prioritises its people and provides excellent support to its staff. They facilitated Michael's transition into civilian life, recognising it was his first non-military role, and offered him ample mentoring."
The Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) is responsible for providing essential logistic support - from transportation to supplies.
The Royal Signals Institution offers a platform for knowledge-sharing and fostering excellence in communication and information systems.
To explore more, please read here.
Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) is a program designed to support the lifelong learning and professional development of military personnel, offering financial assistance and guidance for individuals to pursue educational opportunities beyond their military service. Find out more.
We are an ELCAS approved centre. CDS Support Ltd learner number 12217.
The British Forces Resettlement Services (BFRS) offers a range of support services, including job fairs, career guidance, and networking opportunities, to assist service members in finding rewarding civilian careers.
To find out more, please read here.
Forces Transition Group (FTG) is a dedicated organisation that supports service members in their transition from military to civilian life.
To learn more about the Forces Transition Group, please read more here.
Proud sponsors of UK Armed Forces Tennis Committee (UKAFTC).
The UK Armed Forces Tennis Committee (UKAFTC) exists to promote and develop Tennis across the 3 Services and we are pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with the sport by providing the funds to help organise and conduct inter-services championships; develop competitive squads and maximise competitive participation.
Proud sponsors of the Army Rugby Union Under 23’s Squad.
We are pleased to continue supporting the Army Rugby Union Under 23’s Squad. The ARU was formed in 1906 and has continued for more than one hundred years to provide an infrastructure for the playing of rugby union within the British Army. We are privileged to be part of the ARU U23’s development and to have the opportunity to spectate such an impressive team.
Proud sponsors of Oarsome Rowers (Army Educator Team).
The Army’s most valuable resource is its personnel. Education is vital to ensure that officers and soldiers are intellectually able to meet the roles of a modern technological army both in barracks and when deployed on complex and challenging operations. The Adjutant General’s Corps Educational and Training Services (AGC ETS) Officers provide learning and development opportunities for serving personnel wherever they are around the world.
We are excited to support Oarsome Rowers the Army Educator Team taking part in The World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic in 2024 to raise awareness of the enriching contribution of the ETS to the Army offer.
Made up of four officers from the Educational and Training Services branch of the British Army we wish them the very best of luck as they embark on this epic challenge.