“Tenacity will pay off”: a service leaver’s success in workplace and facilities management

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“Tenacity will pay off”: a service leaver’s success in workplace and facilities management

Recently, IWFM achieved the Bronze Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), in recognition for support for veterans and reservists. One such action was the launch of the Veterans In FM Network, a dedicated career route for veterans to network and support each other in their workplace and facilities management (WFM) careers. Veterans possess an array of skills, experiences and ambitions, so we’re keen to highlight individuals from this rich talent pool to better understand their different WFM paths.

One such individual is Charlie Antelme, Mitie’s Head of Defence since 2019. Prior, Antelme served in the Army for seventeen years, including eight operational tours. Antelme’s WFM beginnings came through work in oil and gas in Africa and the security industry in emerging markets. Antelme spoke to us about his transition to civilian life, networking and his career highlights to date.

How did you prepare for civilian life and the major career change?

I spent a good deal of time talking to veterans and to civilians who were keen to help. A lot of networking. It can take a long time to get the right job and at times the fact that people don’t always understand the value veterans can bring can be frustrating, but ultimately tenacity will pay off.

What transferable skills and experiences from your service have been the most valuable to your WFM career?

The ability to work in and build disparate teams and to bring energy and focus to projects and problems. I say to veterans, you already have so many of the skills you need; it is a diverse industry, full of good people – come and join!

What steps did you take to network and make connections in the WFM industry?

When I first left the military, I was recommended to look at Serco, G4S and Mitie. I was offered jobs by the first two but chose to go into the oil industry. When I came back to the UK from the UAE I reached out to a connection at Mitie. He had a need at the same time I was available - to help build the defence business.

When I joined Mitie we had no defence business – through contract wins and the acquisition of Interserve, defence is our biggest client. That has been a great journey to be part of. Additionally, Mitie’s response to Covid was something both humbling and inspiring and it was fantastic to have played my part.

Now Mitie has a strong veteran and defence minded community - it is great to go to work with like-minded people. Working hard, solving problems and smiling through adversity are key skills; the best traits of the military are shared by the best people in Mitie, regardless of whether they have served or not.

How has your WFM experience contributed to your personal and professional growth and development since leaving the Army?

My training has been ‘on the job’ and through engagement with all elements of the business. Every day is a school day, the combination of commerciality with a commitment to providing a first-class service, often under pressure has been a great education. Ultimately, good people make a difference.

To find out more about Veterans In FM’s work, click here or visit us on LinkedIn.