As we mark Armed Forces Week, we want to take a moment to recognise and celebrate the people within our organisation whose lives are shaped by service. From veterans who bring invaluable skills and experience to their roles, to reservists balancing civilian and military commitments, and spouses who provide unwavering support behind the scenes—each story reflects resilience, dedication and community. This week, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on these colleagues, sharing their experiences and highlighting the vital contribution they make, both in and out of uniform.
We are proud to be part of the Armed Forces Covenant and to demonstrate our commitment to supporting those who have served our country. We believe that the skills and experience of veterans and reservists are an asset to our organisation, and we are committed to ensuring that they have the support they need to succeed in the workplace.
Alongside his role as a Port Operative for KBS, Matthew Parsons is a proud reservist and is a member of the Training Branch. Hear from Matthew, as he reflects on his role as a reservist, the requirements, and the benefits.
What is the role of a reservist? What does it require?
The role of a reservist can vary depending on trade and specialisation; however, broadly speaking, reservists provide support to the regular armed forces. This support can be delivered directly—deploying on operations alongside regular counterparts—or indirectly through functions such as intelligence, administration, logistics, and other key areas.
What is your role?
I am a member of the Training Branch, having transferred from regular service in July 2024. Drawing on my prior experience, I deliver command, leadership, and management training to reservist personnel as they progress through their careers.
My responsibilities include attending training weekends for both Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and instructional duties, maintaining Defence Trainer competence and ensuring my instructional methods remain aligned with current best practice, delivering structured weekend training courses to students, and acting as a course instructor on extended leadership courses, including the Spring and Summer courses, each lasting approximately two weeks.
What are the benefits of being a reservist?
There are many benefits to being a reservist! You get opportunities for Full-Time Reserve Service (FTRS) contracts, providing an additional layer of job security, as well as competitive pay and allowances. Being a reservist also gives you access to recognised qualifications and training that are highly transferrable to civilian employment.
How supported do you feel as a reservist at KBS?
Since joining the reserves, I have already been supported to instruct on previous courses and have recently requested to return as an instructor for the upcoming summer course. I am hopeful that this request will be supported again.
Want to hear from more of our colleagues? Read more here
