Top ‘marques’ to Mission Motorsport for support of our veterans
It never ceases to be heart-warming, when announcements are made in favour of our nation’s Armed Forces, writes Iain Robertson, and none more so than when a ‘hero operator’ finds its value increased by another brand coming on-board.
Mission Motorsport, the forces motorsport charity, the motto of which is ‘Race Retrain Recover’, works in partnership with the Royal Foundation (the charitable trust of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge) to deliver Mission Automotive. It is an initiative that has helped companies like Jaguar Cars to implement engagement programmes that provide placement and employment opportunities for veterans, helping them bridge the gap between their military services and their new civilian lives.
James Cameron, CEO, Mission Motorsport (pictured) said: “Our servicemen and women have so much to offer society after they have left military service. Working with major motor brands can only serve to help our veterans lead fulfilling civilian lives. Jaguar recognises that the ex-military are already highly trained and incredibly motivated and now Volvo has joined our client base. The firm echoes the same best practice and working ethos on which we, at Mission Automotive, pride ourselves and I am really looking forward to reaping the rewards of this new partnership.”
Since its inception, Mission Motorsport has supported over 1,700 veterans in full-time positions with member companies. Many of them have endured career ending injuries while serving. Volvo is eager to build the figures substantially. The company will work closely with Mission Automotive’s Relationship Managers to run insight visits, arrange work placements and training in a wide range of roles across all disciplines within the retailer network, including Service Technicians, Sales Consultant, Product Specialist, Service Advisors, Parts Advisors and Drivers. The aim is to secure permanent employment for ex-military personnel wishing to find rewarding careers across the motor industry.
Volvo has transformed into a true high-quality brand over recent years and has reinforced its position as an industry leader in new technologies that can change significantly how people drive and own their vehicles, making it an exciting business in which to work. The company already has a diverse workforce and is always seeking ambitious, motivated candidates that are seeking to kickstart their careers in a supportive growing environment, which provides stimulating challenges. Volvo is intending to recruit 150 technicians next year alone and Mission Motorsport has a vital and well proven role in servicing the requirements.
Laura Loughran, Commercial Training Manager for Volvo Car UK told us: “Having had family serve in the Royal Navy, I understand how difficult it can be for those leaving the Armed Forces to translate their many and varied skills into civilian life. As a leading automotive manufacturer, Volvo has a comprehensive personnel support and training programme, which we believe will be immensely beneficial for those seeking employment through Mission Automotive. In return, the company will gain by being able to recruit from a huge pool of military talent. I am full of pride that we shall be able to help ex-Armed Forces members to match skills learnt in the military, with lifelong, sustainable automotive careers.”
With Volvo now joining Jaguar Cars as a partner with Mission Motorsport, it can only be a matter of time before Land Rover joins the portfolio, followed by other brands keen to benefit from its range of developmental programmes. Ever since we first heard about the excellent work being carried out by James Cameron and his team, we have been ardent fans. It is clear that Mission Motorsport can provide a valuable resource to many more brands across the motor industry.
