ABM, a global leader in integrated facility and aviation services, has achieved Gold Employer Recognition Scheme status as part of the company’s commitment to the Ministry of Defence Armed Forces Covenant in the UK.
As a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC), ABM is committed to ensuring both veterans and serving armed forces personnel are encouraged to join the ABM family across all lines of business, and that they are supported in their working life as team members.
ABM’s gold status, which recognises employers who have surpassed their covenant pledges, takes immediate effect and will require yearly review and ongoing commitment.
Justine Salmon, Business Support Manager and Co-Chair of ABM’s Armed Forces Working Group says: "Achieving gold certification in recognition of our dedication to the Armed Forces Covenant is a milestone we are incredibly proud of. It reflects our long-term commitment to doing the best we can to recruit, support, and stand by veterans, serving personnel, and their families, ensuring they feel valued and integrated within our company.
"Having achieved the top accolade, the work is not over. We will be continuing to maintain the gold standard and surpass expectations by driving awareness and understanding of the unique challenges faced by service personnel.”
ABM works with the AFC and other partners in the scheme to proactively recruit new team members who have served the country and give paid leave to all reservists on the team, allowing them to continue to serve whilst working for ABM in the UK. An internal Armed Forces Working Group ensures that the challenges and opinions of service personnel working at ABM are heard regularly and action is taken to continually provide support.
Jason Monaghan is Director of International Business Development at ABM, also contributing his Royal Air Force background as part of the company’s Armed Forces Working Group. He comments on ABM’s gold recognition: “For service-leavers, it can be a significant 'culture shock' when settling into civilian life. Serving in the Armed Forces is a way of life rather than just a job, therefore it's important that employers understand and support the transition process.
"As a Royal Air Force veteran myself, it is fantastic to work for a business that invests time and resource into supporting that transition as well as offering members of the reserve and cadet forces the assistance and flexibility needed to balance a civilian career alongside their ongoing commitment to military service.”
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same.
The scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to the defence and armed forces communities, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
For anyone interested in starting a career with ABM, please visit https://www.abm.co.uk/careers2/.
