Kier, a leading provider of construction and infrastructure services is one of the employers named today by the Ministry of Defence as having been re-awarded Gold by the Defence Employer Recognition (ERS) scheme, for its ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces community.
The prestigious ERS scheme celebrates companies who have shown support and advocacy to the Armed Forces, including those currently serving as well as their families, veterans, and volunteers.
Kier has held the highest award, Gold, since 2016 and once again demonstrated to the ERS panel its sustained efforts to provide its employees with career opportunities and mentoring, as well as supportive HR policies and a supportive community network.
In 2013, Kier was one of the first companies to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and over the past eight years, it has partnered with BuildForce, Project Recce and the Career Transition Partnership to increase awareness of the wide-ranging roles available within the construction industry. As a result, Kier now has an extensive ex-armed forces community within its business, from polling drivers to site managers, information security officers and managing directors.
Andrew Davies, chief executive of Kier, states: “I am proud of our longstanding commitment to the Armed Forces community and it is testament to the opportunities and initiatives we offer, as well as the policies and community network we have in place, that we have retained our ERS Gold award.
“We know and appreciate the skills people from the Armed Forces community possess and we will continue to foster a diverse and inclusive workforce which effectively supports our people and allows them to thrive long after leaving active service.”
Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Leo Docherty said: “I would like to thank all the organisations who have proven their support for the Defence community during such unprecedented and challenging times.
“The vast range of those recognised this year demonstrates how employing the Armed Forces community makes a truly positive and beneficial impact for all employers, regardless of size, sector or location.” The Employer Recognition Scheme was launched in 2014 to recognise employer support for the wider principles of the Armed Forces Covenant and the full spectrum of Defence personnel. This includes the Reserves, service leavers, cadets, spouses and wounded, injured and sick.”
