Supporting the veteran community

At Close Brothers, we pride ourselves on building a diverse and inclusive culture where everyone feels they belong and can thrive. We celebrate diversity and are proud of the enthusiasm, passion and hard work of our Group-wide Employee Inclusion Networks.

We recently caught up with Doug McLaren and Neil Fraser from our Veterans Network, who described the Network's mission to support the veteran community, showing appreciation for those who have served or are currently serving, whilst making a positive impact for Close Brothers through a diverse and inclusive culture.

Can you tell us about the Veterans Network at Close Brothers and what it aims to achieve?

The Veterans Network formed in early summer 2023 sparked by an idea from Doug, who is a veteran and former member of Morgan Stanley's EMEA Veterans Network. Through the dedication of a group of committed veterans within Close Brothers, who now make up the Network's steering committee, the idea became an established and thriving Network. The Network aims to demystify the recruitment process for veterans, offer support for those transitioning from military to civilian careers and create a safe space where veterans within the company can connect and discuss shared experiences. Additionally, it focuses on supporting veteran charities and causes.

How does the network support veterans both inside and outside of the company?

The Network provides vital support to veterans within the organisation by helping them navigate the recruitment process, including translating military skills and terminology into language more familiar to the private sector. In March, the Network arranged a veterans recruitment session with the talent acquisition team to raise awareness of what a military CV looks like and how we can best support the recruitment of veterans at Close Brothers. Events such as these offer a sense of community for veterans to share their experiences. Outside of Close Brothers, the Network partners with charities like The Not Forgotten Association, which supports veterans dealing with loneliness and isolation. 

Close Brothers recently received a bronze award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. What does this mean for the company?

Receiving the bronze award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme signals that Close Brothers has made a public commitment to being an "armed forces-friendly" employer. On the 4 July, we welcomed Brigadier Kirsten Dagless to our Crown Place, London office for official recognition and signature of the Armed Forces Covenant. The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise that together we acknowledge and understand that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy, and society they serve with their lives.

The Network's formation and the bronze award reflect the company's ongoing dedication to supporting veterans, with a cohort within the firm that understands the unique challenges military service members face when transitioning to civilian careers.

What kind of impact has the Network had so far and could you share any success stories?

One of the Network's standout achievements was the 2024 "Movement Challenge," where 50 participants from across Close Brothers collectively covered 9,439km, raising £2,792 for The Not Forgotten Association. This was the Network's first significant collaboration with the charity, and it marked a major milestone in their efforts to raise funds and awareness for veteran causes. The Network is already planning additional activities with The Not Forgotten Association, continuing to deepen its partnership and support for veterans.

How can colleagues get involved with and support the Network, and what is the process?

The Veterans Network encourages participation from colleagues but is not mandatory. Those who wish to get involved can connect through the intranet page, attend internal town halls, or join events like the Movement Challenge. The Network is open to veterans, currently serving reservists, and spouses of both current military personnel and veterans. It also welcomes allies who want to understand and support the value that veterans and military families bring to the workplace. It is a space for open-minded individuals who are ready to embrace the unique skills and experiences of those with military connections.

Support for the Veterans Network can be as simple as being open-minded about hiring veterans. Many veterans come with a wealth of transferable skills that might not be immediately obvious to those who have never worked with service personnel. By recognising these skills and offering veterans the opportunity to succeed, both Close Brothers and its partners can provide valuable support to those transitioning from military service to civilian careers.

What are the Network’s key priorities going forward?

In 2025, the Veterans Network is working toward applying for the silver award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, which requires deeper involvement in supporting military charities and providing additional benefits for military reservists. The Network will also continue to focus on workshops for hiring managers to highlight the value of hiring veterans and raise awareness about how their skills can benefit the business. 

The Network looks forward to marking several events this year, including commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day, supporting Armed Forces Day and Reserves Day in June, and Remembrance Day in November, as well as continuing fundraising efforts for veteran-related causes, especially The Not Forgotten Association and the Royal British Legion.

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