Leyland Trucks has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, supporting veterans’ transition to civilian jobs.
- The company aims to achieve higher recognition in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
- A new HR policy ensures ex-military applicants advance to interviews, easing their transition.
- The signing ceremony included a tour of Leyland’s assembly plant and attendance by notable figures.
- Leyland’s commitment reflects wider efforts by PACCAR to support veterans globally.
Leyland Trucks, a prominent manufacturer based in Lancashire, has made a significant commitment to supporting veterans by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. This vow places Leyland among over 11,000 organisations in the UK dedicated to aiding service leavers, veterans, and their families in transitioning to civilian employment. This initiative marks a strategic effort by the company to enhance its role as a veteran-friendly employer.
Leyland Trucks seeks to elevate its status within the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, aspiring beyond its current Bronze award to Silver and eventually Gold. By doing so, Leyland intends to solidify its commitment to integrating ex-forces personnel into its workforce. A key part of this strategy is the implementation of a new Human Resources policy that ensures ex-military candidates automatically progress to the interview stage, thus helping to remove employment barriers that veterans typically encounter due to unconventional career paths.
The Covenant signing event at Leyland was marked by the presence of key figures, including Managing Director Peter Ahrens and Lieutenant Commander Tom Pinfold. The ceremony was further honoured by the attendance of Amanda Parker, the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Defence. Attendees were given a tour of Leyland’s assembly plant, a facility steeped in history and innovation, allowing them to witness the production of the complete DAF vehicle range and even experience driving one of Leyland’s new battery electric vehicles.
Stephen Goate, a senior quality engineer at Leyland Trucks and a British Army veteran, remarked on the value of the skills he developed in the military, such as discipline and time management, in his civilian role. He praised Leyland for recognising the unique capabilities that veterans bring, stating that the company genuinely respects the skills and work ethic fostered by military service.
The event also highlighted Leyland’s alignment with PACCAR’s global mission of veteran support, akin to initiatives like “Hiring Our Heroes” in the United States. Representatives from the Ministry of Defence, such as Warrant Officer Michael Leonard and Sergeant Steve Garrett, participated, reinforcing the collaboration between Leyland and military entities. Additionally, the Lord-Lieutenant presented Mark Scott, Leyland’s armed forces champion, with the King’s Coronation Medal, recognising his significant contributions during and after his military career.
Peter Ahrens expressed the importance of this step as part of Leyland’s long-standing tradition of community support and national service. By signing the Covenant, Leyland Trucks not only honors its past but also looks forward to developing a workforce enriched with the skills and experiences of ex-military personnel. The company is keen on fostering leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability — qualities abundant among veterans.
Leyland Trucks’ dedication to integrating ex-forces personnel exemplifies its broader commitment to community and national service.
