AV Dawson, a major Middlesbrough logistics company, has signed a pledge to support ex-members of the armed forced to find work in their sector. It has agreed to ensure there is complete fairness and respect in the communities where the personnel live, as well as local job opportunities. It has also pledged to encourage more logistics businesses to see the potential of former military personnel with their in-depth practical training.
“We have armed forces veterans employed in most areas of our business. The skills they build up during their service are invaluable and easily transitioned into businesses like ours. We wanted a way to show our ongoing commitment to our service veterans and the Armed Forces Covenant was the natural next step,” said Gary Dawson, managing director at AV Dawson.
AV Dawson will be working in collaboration with the Career Transition Partnership in order to establish tailored employment pathways for service leavers. Moreover, the company supports the employment of service spouses and partners and grants leave for service spouses and partners before, during and after the partner’s deployment.
“Catterick Garrison, the world’s largest Army Garrison, is based here in the North East and with many returning to their original home towns seeking employment and career opportunities; we want to support veterans in their next step. It is important that we are able to promote the exciting prospects available to veterans in the area but also encourage other local businesses to do the same. It also allows us to showcase our employment opportunities to people leaving the armed forces, veterans and their families,” Gary added.
As a bonus, the business will also support employees who choose to be members of the Reserve Forces, accommodating their training and deployment where possible.
“As a former member of the armed forces I understand fully the tremendous skills these people have to bring to companies. They are among the most disciplined and determined employees I have ever had the pleasure to work with. AV Dawson signing this covenant will be a huge benefit to ex-service personnel and the business itself. I wholeheartedly encourage other logistic businesses to follow their inspirational lead,” said James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North East England Chamber of Commerce, which has also signed an Armed Forces Covenant.
