November is one of the most solemn times of the year, when we remember those who sacrificed their lives in the service of this country. Importantly, we also give thanks to those who serve now, and those who have served and survived and are leading their now normal (or challenging) lives. I would like to suggest employers, and organisations looking for volunteers, remember at this time of the year this cohort of ex-military leaders – they make excellent leaders in society due to their exceptional training, experience, and character traits honed through years of service. 

These individuals are trained to lead under pressure, make decisive and strategic decisions, and manage resources effectively. Their leadership skills are tested in some of the most challenging environments, requiring them to navigate complex situations with limited information and high stakes. This experience translates well into civilian leadership roles, where they can apply their ability to think critically and act decisively.

Moreover, ex-military leaders embody important values such as discipline, integrity, and accountability—qualities that are essential for effective leadership. They are accustomed to taking responsibility for both their actions and the outcomes of their teams, which in turn fosters a culture of trust and reliability. Their life-long commitment to these values ensures that they approach leadership with a strong ethical foundation, prioritising the welfare of their organisations and people.

Additionally, military leaders are skilled in managing diverse teams and fostering unity in pursuit of common goals. Their experience working with individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and expertise enables them to bring people together, bridge divides, and harness collective strengths. This ability to unite and motivate others is crucial in any leadership position, particularly in today’s interconnected, global, and often polarised society.

Finally, military leaders bring a global perspective to leadership, having often served in various regions and engaged with different cultures. This international experience broadens their understanding of global issues, making them well-suited to lead in an increasingly globalised world. They are trained to anticipate and respond to external challenges, adapt to changing environments, and innovate in the face of adversity. Their motto is often ‘adapt, improvise, overcome’.

In sum, ex-military leaders are a unique cohort in our society. They can excel as leaders in society due to their disciplined approach, ethical grounding, proven decision-making skills, and ability to unite and motivate diverse teams. Their unique combination of experience and character positions them to make significant contributions in both public and private sector leadership roles. Do not forget them!