Mace strikes gold on Defence Employer Recognition Scheme

Mace, the international consultancy and construction company, has been awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award.

The prestigious accolade – awarded by the Ministry of Defence to only a select group of committed companies – highlights Mace’s unwavering dedication to supporting ex-military personnel, serving Reservists and their families.

In the three years since signing the Armed Forces Covenant and receiving a silver ERS award, efforts have been ramped up to push for gold.      

Key factors in securing the award included a continued commitment to offering work placement opportunities for candidates at The Royal School of Military Engineering (RSME), full pay for Reservist Leave, and ongoing advocacy within the construction industry through close collaboration with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP).  

From signing the Armed Forces Covenant to achieving gold ERS standard, the Mace Military Network has been a vocal driving force. Run by Mace employees and set up in recognition of the growing community of ex-military and Reservist colleagues, the group was created with the goal of providing a dedicated support structure, while also raising the profile of military skills and experience across business.

Underpinning the Network’s efforts is a mentor programme for those joining Mace from the military. The group offers support and guidance based on personal experiences to help new-starters make the transition to civilian life. 

Last year, the Network held a charity dinner at the Honourable Artillery Company, bringing together over 30 top construction companies and raising £26,000 for two military charities.

Mace currently employs 76 service leavers and nine Reservists, and aims to recruit more members of the Armed Forces in the future.

Mark Holmes, Mace Deputy Chairman and Group Board Sponsor for the Mace Military Network, said:

“Through my involvement with the Mace Military Network I have the privilege of seeing the value ex-military personnel and Reservists bring to Mace and I’m delighted for everyone who worked so hard to achieve this accolade. By receiving the Gold Award on the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, we are making it crystal clear to people with a military background that we recognise your experience and skills, and that we will provide you with the support you need to transition to a civilian career if you join Mace.” 

Andy Sharples, Director for Defence, Energy, Nuclear and Utilities, said:

“Our defence business has unquestionably benefited from the insight of Mace’s ex-military and Reservist community, but the value extends into every sector we operate in. The inherent professionalism, leadership, problem solving and technical capabilities these talented individuals bring to our industry are second to none. Achieving the Gold Award is testament to the efforts of the existing military community at Mace, and it serves as an important signal of intent as we seek to bring even more armed forces leavers and Reservists into the business.”