Desider Issue 138 DE&S apprenticeships - unlock your potential - February 2020
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desider
Issue 138
February 2020
the magazine for
defence equipment
and support
DE&S apprenticeships - unlock your potential
Foreword
I
t has been a productive I was able to garner
first month of 2020 and I crucial insight to the success
am optimistic that we are and challenges within the
continuing to improve the way programme and see first-hand
we equip and support the the collaboration of efforts
armed forces. between our people to ensure
challenges are met head on,
and successes reflected upon.
"Understanding the needs and objectives of our military The £3.2 billion UKMFTS
customers must be at the heart of what we do" programme to increase training
capacity for UK military pilots
overall, is gaining momentum
Part of that optimism stems and we recently signed a
from the visit of our new Minister £183 million contract
for Defence Procurement, amendment to boost training
James Heappey, to Abbey for new Rotary Wing pilots.
Wood last month. This includes the uplift of four
I was struck by his energy, new Airbus H145 helicopters
enthusiasm and appreciation and a state-of-the-art simulator
of what we do at DE&S. When allowing students to fly a range
taking time to reflect on his time of missions and best prepare
as a serving soldier in Northern them for the demands of the
Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan, front line.
the minister praised our DE&S takes its social
commitment to delivering to the responsibility seriously, so I was
front line and noted our efforts pleased to see we have now
saved lives, perhaps even his. undertaken the first delivery
I am looking forward to of unused operational ration
working with him and I have packs following a deal DE&S
assured the minister that DE&S negotiated last year so that
is most definitely up for the surplus food is distributed to
challenges that come our way. those who need it most.
Elsewhere, DE&S Chairman This first delivery to FareShare
Mark Russell and I hosted provides 14,000 nutritious meals
Board-to-Board meetings to community groups, homeless
with Navy Command and hostels and lunch groups for
UK Strategic Command in the elderly, and underlines
Abbey Wood to discuss their our commitment to reducing
By Sir Simon Bollom, CEO ambitious transformation waste in an environmentally
agendas and where we have sustainable way.
synergies and opportunities to Our social responsibility
explore further. For the Navy, was also highlighted by the
the Future Maritime Support 20 DE&S staff who visited a
Programme – which is looking Bristol primary school where
at a future contract to support they joined children planting
the operation of the Naval Bases native trees in the local area.
– has the potential to deliver a The green agenda is set to be
significantly positive impact on central to all that we do at DE&S
the way our ships and their crew and I fully support this initiative,
are supported. Understanding looking at our corporate social
the needs and objectives of responsibilities.
our military customers must And finally, congratulations
be at the heart of what we do to all of those recognised in the
as it helps us to improve our New Year Honours including
operating relationship. Executive team member Air
I also took the opportunity to Marshal Sir Julian Young who
visit RAF Valley to meet with our received a knighthood. A further
employees, alongside the RAF 15 DE&S employees were
and BAE Systems staff who rewarded for their hard work
operate and sustain the Hawk and dedication and my sincere
jet under the UK Military Training thanks go to you for all your
System (UKMFTS) programme. efforts.
3
desider February 2020
Contents
Contents
www.gov.uk/government/publications/desider-2020
Twitter: @DefenceES
On the cover
Facebook: @DefenceES DE&S apprentices
LinkedIn: Defence Equipment & Support
Photos by Jack Eckersley and Beth Squire
YouTube: DE&S
Editor:
Tom Morris - 0117 9137888
tom.morris114@mod.gov.uk
Contributors:
Louisa Keefe, Louise Allford, Lowri Jones and Daniel Evans
Photography and Design:
Katherine Williams, Jack Eckersley, Charlie Perham, Beth
Squire, Mark Hawke and Andrew Linnett
6 9
Distribution Manager:
Dick Naughton - 0117 9134342
Dick.Naughton501@mod.gov.uk
Advertising Manager: Senior Leader Comment Ration packs
Edwin Rodrigues Nick Elliott, Deputy Chief First delivery of unused
edwin.rodrigues@noahsarkmedia.com
+44 (0) 748 257 1535
Executive ration packs to charity
Printing
desider is distributed free to DE&S employees and the equipment capability
organisations. Copies may be sent to readers outside MOD, including in the defence
industries and is published on the world wide web via GOV.UK and www.des.mod.uk.
While the editor takes care to ensure all material produced is accurate, no liability can
be accepted for errors or omissions. Views expressed in desider, and products and
services advertised, are not necessarily endorsed by DE&S or the MOD. All editorial
submissions must be cleared by the relevant MOD authorities.
© Crown Copyright
This magazine is printed on Novatech Matt FS 100gsm
8
UKMFTS
which is Forest Stewardship Council certified material Multi-million pound contract signed for flight training system
from well-managed forests and elemental chlorine free.
4
desider February 2020
Contents
10
Min DP visits Abbey Wood
James Heappey thanks
24
DE&S for their hard work
Emma Barnes
Represented Great Britain
at World Transplant Games
12
New Year Honours
22
Operation Morlop
DE&S staff recognised for DE&S employee Colonel Mike Duff discusses his key role
dedication to defence in returning Salisbury to normality following a nerve agent
attack in 2018
28
DE&S People
DE&S videographer Charlie
Perham recognised in the
British Army’s prestigious
photographic competition
14
Eco-warriors
16
First Person
18 Cover
story
National Apprenticeship
DE&S volunteers plant trees Chief Operating Officer for Week
at Bristol primary school Joint Enablers, Ian Smith DE&S staff celebrated
5
desider February 2020
Senior Leader Comment
Nick Elliott, DE&S' Deputy Chief Executive, talks to
Desider about his role, continuing to improve the
organisation and shaping defence for the future
A
s Deputy Chief Executive our principle delivery functions so we’re trying to think more
(DCE), I’m extremely
fortunate in that I get to
(project management, project
controls, iLog, commercial,
As we continue proactively about what we’ll need
at the end of next year, in two
see pretty much everything that engineering and IM&IT) and to further year’s time and in five year’s time,
the organisation does, from both a
delivery and business perspective.
making sure that they operate
effectively in a cohesive way in
develop and in order to meet our customers’
future needs.
Since assuming the role in April support of the business. improve, our This is great preparation for
2019, I’ve seen some fantastic
achievements from across the
The use of performance
metrics is now adding real
unique role at the upcoming Strategic Defence
Review where we will have a
organisation such as the Prince value and helping us manage the heart of key advisory role in helping the
of Wales aircraft carrier setting our projects better in both their defence will front-line commands work out
sail, the signing of the Boxer procurement and support. The what they need for the future.
contract for the Army’s new Chief Information Officer and become even Space, digital, cyber and how
mobile infantry vehicle and his team have brought us out of more invaluable we meet the challenge of being
the innovative Type 31 frigate the dark ages with greater laptop carbon neutral by 2050 are all
contract. I think Type 31 is a availability and remote working. going to be high on the agenda, as
game-changer for the Navy. It’s a And we are leading defence in will the Prime Minister’s focus on
very different way of doing things the implementation of robotic maintaining and developing UK-
and will give them a new flexible processes. There is still more based capability. We’re going to be
capability, both modular and work to do with Defence Digital challenged on affordability, new
scalable, at a competitive price. (the new name for ISS) in terms requirements and the aspirations
But for every one of these highly of the stability and performance of our customers; on being more
visible achievements, I am also of the platforms and systems agile, being quicker and getting to
aware there are myriad less visible they provide, but even this is market in a more efficient way.
but equally important and hard- now starting to show continuous I genuinely believe the work
won successes across the business improvement. we have done in re-shaping and
at every level. Under the leadership of improving DE&S has been great
My role as DCE has a number Director Programmes, we’re preparation for this future and,
of elements. The most important undertaking a business planning as we continue to further develop
is to ensure Sir Simon Bollom process this year to look at our and improve, our unique role at
is supported as CEO and he has long-term plans in a more focused the heart of defence will become
someone with whom he can share and co-ordinated way. The even more invaluable.
the demands of his workload. But annuality of defence means we’ve
I’m also responsible for a wide sometimes been a bit reactive
variety of other things including in how we manage our business
6
desider February 2020
News
DE&S secure £183 million boost for military
helicopter training
Pictured: A new contract has been signed to boost training services for Rotary Wing pilots (Picture provided by Ascent)
D
E&S’ UK Military the increased demand for pilot said: “This £183m boost for our
Flying Training System These crucial training identified in the 2015 helicopter training will see our
(UKMFTS) team has Strategic Defence and Security student pilots benefit from an
upgrades will help our
signed a £183 million contract to Review. ultra-modern simulator, new
boost training services for new students become the Commodore Tom Manson, infrastructure at RAF Shawbury
Rotary Wing pilots. finest helicopter pilots UKMFTS Head at DE&S, said: and four brand-new Airbus H145
The contract amendment in the world “I am delighted to uplift the helicopters. These crucial upgrades
includes an uplift of four new capacity of our tri-service military will help our students become
Airbus H145 helicopters, a state- Minister for Defence helicopter pilot training services the finest helicopter pilots in the
of-the-art simulator, infrastructure Procurement that we deliver in partnership with world.
improvements and support in James Heappey Ascent. “The UKMFTS programme is
attracting and training personnel “The new twin-engine Airbus delivering a world-class, state-
to meet the increased helicopter H145s will enhance the current of-the-art training system which
demand from the frontline. mix of H135 and H145s that are is a global exemplar for training
The new H145 helicopters and used on UKMFTS; providing aircrew in preparation for the
simulator will enable students increased flexibility to deliver the operational front line.”
to learn how to fly a range of range of training required for both
missions, covering expected pilots and aircrewmen in advance
scenarios on operational of flying front-line helicopters.”
deployment. In addition, the The four new H145 helicopters
H145s enable students to practise and simulator will be based at RAF
winching tasks and rear crew Shawbury, Shropshire, which is
activities. where the Rotary Wing element
The Rotary Wing contract of UKMFTS is delivered. The
amendment was signed by infrastructure improvements will
UKMFTS – part of DE&S – cater for the increased student
and Ascent Flight Training numbers.
Management Ltd, which delivers The H145 family (BK117,
pilot training for the UKMFTS in a EC145 and H145) is a well-proven
partnering arrangement. training aircraft with more than
It is part of a wider programme 1,300 helicopters in service around
to increase training capacity for the world and has clocked more
UK military pilots overall, as than 5.5 million flight hours.
part of the £3.2 billion UKMFTS Minister for Defence
programme and helps address Procurement James Heappey
8
desider February 2020
News
DE&S delivers on promise to supply unused ration
packs to UK charity
Pictured: Ration packs arriving at FareShare charity in their Deptford depot (Picture by Sgt Peter Devine)
D
E&S has, for the first time, turn the components of the ration to provide this support to those
donated unused ration FareShare were able to packs into the equivalent of 14,000 most in need.”
packs to FareShare, a meals. Around two million ration
turn the components
charity that distributes food to FareShare CEO Lindsay Boswell packs are used by the UK military
more than 11,000 UK charities of the ration packs said: “We’re delighted to have every year, with less than one per
including community groups, into the equivalent of partnered with MOD to help them cent of the MOD’s stock requiring
homeless hostels and lunch groups 14,000 meals get their surplus food to good disposal. This scheme means that
for older people. causes. there is an opportunity to support
The effort was put together by “Because these packs don’t those in need and ensure that any
the Logistic Delivery Operating need refrigeration, they are ideal good food does not go to waste.
Centre (LDOC) headquarters, for winter night shelters where Work to include individual
Commissioning and Managing volunteers need to make food 24 hour ORP into this
Organisation, Defence Equipment quickly, or to offer out to families arrangement continues to
Sales Authority and MOD delivery in temporary accommodation who progress.
partner Team Leidos. might only have access to a kettle The donation is part of the
This consignment consisted of or a hob at Christmas time.” MOD’s ongoing commitment
210 boxes of Operational Ration Operational Ration Packs offer a to reduce waste in an
Packs (ORP); each box sustaining high-quality flexible range of food environmentally sustainable way
10 soldiers for a 24-hour period. to meet the needs of servicemen as well as supporting community
The packs include ingredients and women. The donated packs groups across the country through
that enable the preparation of are used to prepare group meals, FareShare.
nutritionally balanced meals for usually by military chefs in field
breakfast, lunch and dinner such kitchens.
as porridge, sausages, baked beans, DE&S Director Logistic
pasta and rice, and provide an Delivery Roger West said: “A little
average of 4,000 calories. under a year ago we announced
The ORP were delivered that we would support the
to FareShare headquarters in important work of FareShare by
Deptford just before Christmas, providing unused surplus rations
where they were sorted and that MOD would be unable to
distributed to charities in need of consume and would otherwise
food donations over the festive become waste.
period. FareShare were able to “I am very glad that we are able
9
desider February 2020
News In Brief
Min DP visits
Abbey Wood
The new Minister for Defence
Procurement, James Heappey,
visited MOD Abbey Wood in
Bristol full of enthusiasm for 2020,
a year he sees as very important
for DE&S.
Mr Heappey, who has served
with the British Army in Northern
Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan
before turning to politics, was
greeted by a full lecture theatre of
military and civilian personnel.
The minister thanked DE&S
as he recalled his first-hand
experience of DE&S’ delivery
of UOR (Urgent Operational
Requirements) whilst deployed in
Afghanistan, praising DE&S for
LGBT+ networks meet at Downing Street their professionalism when the
armed forces needed equipment
to be turned around quickly.
DE&S senior operations they can benefit their members, Reflecting on the ever-evolving
manager Patricia Hughes their allies and, importantly, the equipment used on deployments,
was invited to a meeting at departments. Key achievements the minister, said: “Two years
10 Downing Street to discuss included agreement on ways later, we were using different
priorities and opportunities with to progress and enhance the weapons, different uniforms, the
the two cross-government LGBT+ networks’ visibility, membership vehicles were different, the comms
networks. and activities. system, everything. And the speed
Patricia was personally invited It was agreed network activity with which it was turned around
to the meeting by Department for seen in 2020 should include to us… therefore saving lives,
Education Permanent Secretary toolkits, training delivery, perhaps my life.”
and Civil Service LGBTQIA+ procedural reviews, Civil Service The town hall closed with the
champion, Jonathan Slater, Live and PRIDE events. minister saying he is looking
following her acceptance onto Patricia, said: “The meeting forward to working closely
the Civil Service Positive Action provided a fantastic opportunity alongside DE&S, whilst CEO
Pathway programme. to have an objective discussion Simon Bollom thanked the
The meeting with networks and set worthwhile network minister for his frank and upfront
a:gender and Civil Service LGBT+ priorities, and I look forward to approach, assuring him that
included representatives from the civil service meeting its aim to DE&S is up to the challenge.
Downing Street, their press office be the most inclusive employer in
and policy units. the UK.”
It reviewed the activities and For more information, please
priorities of the networks, how visit www.agender.org.uk
MOD Quality Awards success
DE&S teams have been Centre Quality Management
recognised at the MOD Quality Team were among the winners in
Awards ceremony for their efforts the Best Improvement category.
in further improving the quality Elsewhere, Keith Tilley,
culture of the organisation. FAST quality manager was one
The awards, sponsored by the of the winners of the Quality
Chartered Quality Institute (CQI), Ambassador award.
reward excellent work in a wide The awards were opened by
range of MOD departments and DE&S’ director engineering and
defence industries, where they safety, Tim Rowntree, who is also
have adopted a ‘quality approach’ part of MOD Defence Authority
through governance, assurance for Technical and Quality
and improvement to their Assurance. The awards were
everyday work. presented by Vincent Desmond,
Among the winners of the CEO of the CQI.
Inspiring Leadership award was Tim said: “I am absolutely
DE&S’ John Bullock, head of the impressed by the quality and
skills and communications MOD dedication that has been put into
Quality Policy team. The Medical all of the nominations. Thank you
Counter Measures Quality Team and many congratulations to all of
from Chemical, Biological, the winners who have truly made
Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) a significant difference to quality
and the Air Support Operating in defence.”
10desider February 2020
News In Brief
DLE holds final Town Hall
Major General Colin McClean body of work last year including
thanked staff for their exceptional the support of live operations
efforts and asked them to in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria,
continue striving to make DE&S exercises like Saif Sareea 3 and
better every day during his final Tractable, and the significant
Town Hall as Director Land strides in terms of equipment
Equipment at MOD Abbey Wood. made with programmes including
Colin, who has been succeeded Boxer and Ajax.
by Major General Darren Crook, He concluded: “I have been
told staff: “DE&S is a great place lucky enough to have held some
to work and every day we should incredible roles but can genuinely
be doing something for our say Director Land Equipment has
soldiers, sailors and air personnel been the best one and the reason
– that is ultimately why DE&S for that is you, so on a personal
exists.” note, thank you very much.”
Colin highlighted the huge
HMS Queen Elizabeth trials
HMS Queen Elizabeth has systems in operating with the jets
sailed from her home port of that the ship, and her sister, HMS
Portsmouth to conduct flight Prince of Wales, were specifically
trials with UK F-35 Lightning jets built to accommodate.
in UK waters. The joint Royal Navy and
The 65,000-tonne warship Royal Air Force Lightning Force
previously carried out operational Training squadron, 207 Squadron,
testing with the lightning force will conduct the trials, flying
jets while training in the Atlantic aircraft to and from the decks, day
during 2018 and 2019. and night from their base at RAF
The trials will give the pilots Marham. Six pilots, both navy
practise in landing on the 4.5-acre and air force, will carry out their
deck in a range of conditions, as aircraft carrier qualification in
well as testing the ship’s crew and that time.
DE&S recognised as Diversity champion for second year running
For the second year running, Bamford said: “DE&S serve as
DE&S has been awarded a an exemplar for other parts of
Stepping Up Diversity Champion the country and without their
2020 Award for their leadership support, ‘Stepping Up’ would not
and support with the ‘Stepping continue to flourish.”
Up’ programme. The DE&S ‘Stepping Up’ team
The Stepping Up programme were presented with their award
is aimed at Black, Asian and at the Stepping Up Graduation
Minority Ethnic (BAME) Ceremony at City Hall in Bristol,
aspiring senior leaders, who have where the team enjoyed the
an interest in expanding their company of the Bristol Mayor
leadership abilities to take up Marvin Rees and his deputy
senior leadership roles. It aims Councillor Asher Craig.
to create a sustainable pool of Stepping UP Ambassador,
talented and equipped BAME Abimbola Oyekoya, said: “I
leaders to tackle the social, would recommend the Stepping
organisational and psychological UP Programme to any BAME
barriers restricting BAME colleague aspiring for senior
colleague’s progression to senior leadership roles. The exposure,
leadership. knowledge-exchange and
Programme Director Christine networking are unrivalled.”
11desider February 2020
Feature
Pictured clockwise from top left: Commander Sue Seagrave, Chief of Materiel (Air) Air Marshal Sir Julian Young, Major Maikali Nawaqaliva, Wing Commander Timothy Rand,
Captain John Voyce, Colonel Mike Duff and Group Captain Mark Butterworth (Pictures by Jack Eckersley, Beth Squire and submitted)
12desider February 2020
Feature
News
DE&S staff celebrated in
New Year Honours
C
hief of Materiel (Air) Air Marshal Sir Julian Commander Sue Seagrave from Weapon Support
Young has been knighted and fellow DE&S within Ships has been awarded an MBE for enduring
staff recognised for their hard work and contribution to improving sea-training through
dedication in the New Year Honours list. innovation alongside Major Maikali Nawaqaliva
Sir Julian, who has worked at DE&S since 2012 from the Defence Supply Chain Operations &
and been in charge of the Air domain since April Movements (DSCOM), who was recognised for his
2016, has become a Knight Commander of the Order work for the Fijian community in the UK.
of the British Empire for long-term service to the Maikali said: “It was a wonderful and emotional
Royal Air Force, to DE&S and for being the Defence surprise, especially when all my children were with us
Engineering Champion for the past five years. at home celebrating Christmas.
He said: “I am absolutely delighted, though it’s “As a Fijian it is a great honour. I have had
going to take time to sink in. I told my wife first and messages from back home in Fiji and even those
we opened a bottle of champagne. Then, as it was from my village who have been inspired. If I was
about to be announced publicly online, I told my back home, this would have caused a huge village
adult children and my mother who were all staying celebration.
with us at home. It was an incredibly special moment. “This type of recognition nearly always results as
“For now, I view this honour as a reflection of part of a team effort and, amongst many others, I’d
multiple teams of people that I have had the great like to thank my colleagues in DSCOM who have
privilege of working with over several years, during afforded me the time to continue with this work.”
which we’ve delivered some great outcomes. A real Sue said: “It was a complete surprise. I thought I
bonus for me personally is that my wife Helen, for her had been summoned to give a short notice brief on
35-years of support (and hassle), gets a name change some support accelerator stuff before Christmas.”
as well. Lesley Richardson, private secretary to Director
“I’m immensely proud that the Air Domain has General Resources was also awarded an MBE.
delivered some game-changing projects to the RAF in Seven other members of staff received the
the last three-and-a-half years. It’s a pleasure to work Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) – a silver medal
at DE&S, it really is. I was meant to be retired by now, for distinguished service or gallantry, principally
but had been asked by Sir Simon to stay on and was by non-commissioned officers of all of the British
delighted to do so as I love my job and shall be sorry armed forces. They were Warrant Officer Ones Ben
to go when the time comes this summer.” Taylor and Andrew Webster (both Land), Robert
Elsewhere, Wing Commander Timothy Rand Jones, Robert Edwards, Barry McConnell (All Joint
who works within the C130J delivery team in Enablers), Alan Axon (Commercial) and Flight
Cambridge was awarded an OBE. Sergeant Richie Law (Support Directorate). Major
Tim said: “Awards like this are only possible with Daniel Edwards within Joint Enablers received
continued and sustained support by other team a Commander (Standing Joint Commander) UK
members and colleagues. In my case, I had a superb, Commendation.
professional and dedicated set of individuals who Finally, prior to the New Year Awards, Group
never failed to impress with their efforts.” Captain Mark Butterworth, deputy head of the
Also awarded an OBE was Colonel Mike Duff, of Combat Air Strategy team, was awarded an OBE.
the Remotely Piloted Air Systems team, and Captain Mark received the award following his tour as
John Voyce, who headed up the Type 45 team in Officer Commanding Engineering and Logistics
Naval Ships Support before taking up the position of Wing at RAF Coningsby, where he was responsible
Commanding Officer on board HMS Sultan. for maintenance, continuing airworthiness and
Mike, an Army Reservist and Assistant logistics of Typhoon and Battle of Britain Memorial
Commander South West, played a key role in Flight (BBMF) aircraft.
returning Salisbury to normality following the nerve Working closely with the DE&S Typhoon delivery
agent poisoning of March 2018. See pages 22 and 23 team, his tour saw engineers and logisticians from
for more information. Coningsby supporting Typhoon activities around the
John was chief engineer and then team leader world including the Falkland Islands and Operation
for the Type 45 programme and, through personal Shader, culminating in BBMF joining the RAF100
resilience and engineering professionalism, he flypast on July 10, 2018.
instilled pride and passion across the Type 45 He said: “It was tremendous to be presented
enterprise. He was known for his ability to inspire with this honour by the Duke of Cambridge, but I
and motivate his colleagues, and under his leadership know that I owe a debt of gratitude to all those in
the team achieved a dramatic turnaround in Type 45 the RAF, sister services, civil service and industry,
availability. particularly the exceptional engineers and logisticians
I have worked with, who have provided me with the
opportunity to have such an enjoyable career.”
13desider February 2020
News
Volunteers go green with One Tree Per Child
Pictured: DE&S volunteers worked with Bristol City Council scheme One Tree Per Child and pupils from Fair Furlong school to plant trees (Picture by Andrew Linnett)
V
olunteers from across of a greener environment. Jonathan Jones, Typhoon
DE&S came together to Trees play a pivotal “Typhoon is a huge defence team environmental manager and
plant native tree species and I was keen that we made our lead organiser for the event, said:
at a local primary school under a
role in the fight contribution to the Government’s “Trees play a pivotal role in the
Bristol City council scheme, One against climate Greening initiative.” fight against climate change,
Tree Per Child. change, cleaning our John Atkinson, One Tree Per cleaning our air, storing carbon
Originally initiated in Australia, air, storing carbon and Child officer, said: “You really feel and producing oxygen. We hope as
Bristol became the first council producing oxygen. We like you’re making a difference. many people as possible will follow
in the UK to launch the scheme hope as many people You see tangible results every day, our example and get involved with
in 2015. By planting trees in as possible will follow so it’s very rewarding and planting similar schemes.
schools, parks and open spaces, and maintaining trees is a fantastic “A trillion trees planted in the
the scheme’s aim was to have every our example and get learning resource. A lot of kids coming years could significantly
child planting one tree as part of a involved with similar don’t cope too well in a classroom reduce the amount of carbon in
primary school activity and, by the schemes environment and, getting them the atmosphere, potentially by up
end of 2016, a total of 39,000 trees outside, you can have some to 25 per cent.”
were planted. Jonathan Jones, Typhoon amazing conversations not just Each DE&S volunteer donated
Since then, the roots of the Environmental Manager about science, biology and botany, £25 each to take part; raising
charity have gone from strength but also about art and maths. You £400 for the Bristol and Bath
to strength, whilst relying on can link anything into trees.” Parks Foundation, a charitable
volunteers for their support. Naming the trees as they partnership between Bristol and
Along with pupils aged nine planted them, the children enjoyed Bath Parks aimed at supporting
and 10, teachers from Fair Furlong getting muddy and helping DE&S local communities, improving
School and 20 volunteers from staff dig shallow holes for the trees their local green spaces and
DE&S helped to plant a wide to be planted in. promoting wellbeing.
selection of native trees in the In between digging, nine-year- Christian Lang, Deputy Head
school grounds. old Mason said: “I want my little of Fair Furlong school, said: “We
The volunteers were joined by sister to grow up and go to this had a really successful day with the
representatives from One Tree school and climb all the trees that DE&S volunteers and One Tree
Per Child, who donated the native we made.” Per Child. A lot of our kids spend
species including hazel, hawthorn, Aditi, 10, added: “I want other lots of time indoors so it was great
rowan, silver birch, willow and people to follow in our footsteps to give them the opportunity to be
cherry trees. and plant more trees so we can part of this project; getting them
Typhoon delivery team help the environment.” outside and doing something
environmental lead, Keith As well as the trees providing physical and fun as well as creating
Woodbridge, said: “We were fruit for the children to pick, an environment that they’ve had
delighted to offer our support to planting trees in their playing field influence on and they can be
this exciting project; educating will provide a habitat for wildlife proud of.”
very young people in the benefits to thrive in their playground.
14Picture: Jack Eckersley
desider February 2020
DE&S People
On empowerment,
embedding change and
being a huge rugby fan
Ian Smith is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for
Joint Enablers (JE) and has worked for DE&S and its
predecessors since he was 16
What does your role involve? to be innovative and take risks. If Why did you choose to pursue
I am responsible to CoM you empower yourself to look for a career in DE&S?
(JE) for effective and efficient better ways to do things, you also I started at DE&S’ predecessor
operation of the domain, including empower others to do the same. just after my 16th birthday as
leadership of the domain functions How are you helping embed an electrical apprentice and
and headquarters shared services change in your area? have been here ever since, more
teams, delivery and exploitation of than 37 years. I saw it as a great
change, continuous improvement Around finance and change opportunity to have a career in an
and overall operational and I think we need to alter the exciting environment and it has
delivery excellence. conversation, from saying we definitely been that. Out of 33 of
don’t have enough resource and us who started together, there are
What about your role is people to making the best use still some of us based in the MOD,
exciting, rewarding or of the resource we have. That’s a so the career aspect was true for
interesting? theme that runs throughout the us!
I am in a new role as JE COO conversations I have with people
moving from leading a delivery about embedding change. The What do you most enjoy about
Senior Leadership Group pillar. introduction of the balanced your job?
To me, it is fascinating to see how matrix has been challenging and As the years have gone by, I
DE&S operates and understand having people allocated to your think the workplace has become
how I can make a difference, area rather than recruiting more less formal and more diverse and
although it’s like drinking from directly is a big cultural change. I really enjoy meeting different
a fire hose with so much to take But if we are to develop people and people and them sharing the
in. People within my wider team be more professional it is essential. knowledge and experience they
have been incredibly helpful with I see the internal promotion have. I’m always learning in this
providing briefings and telling campaigns as a big step forward role and many others I have been
me what I need to know to get up and getting my team members in.
and running, and that’s exciting ready for progression and reaching
to see the enthusiasm people have their potential is very important What do you enjoy doing in
for their JE roles. It is rewarding to me. I am also very supportive your spare time?
to see people step up and get of smart working and the use I am a huge rugby fan and have
involved in work that is outside of technology. In my view, all been all over the world following
their day jobs, like the recent meetings should be Skype-enabled the sport.
information gathering we did wherever technology/facilities
allow. That should be standard in What might surprise people
around empowerment. I was really
a modern working environment. about you?
impressed with the people who
participated. I’m also looking at how we enable I was lucky enough to spend a
project managers and operation year on the advanced command
How important to you is managers to really unlock the staff course as one of only five
teamwork? potential of the transformation civilians with 200 of our UK
It’s easy to say that teamwork tools. Using the data to manage military colleagues and 100 of our
is vital, of course it is, but for me your project is what the tools international military colleagues. I
an important part of teamwork are for. Why wouldn’t you? But not only survived, but it intensified
is role-modelling the behaviours we need to ensure the right my respect for our armed forces
I need from my teams, so I try to visualisation for project managers and I feel passionate about
be proactive and try new things and operation managers and that ensuring we deliver for them.
so colleagues can see that it is OK they know how to do this.
17desider February 2020
Feature
DE&S Apprentices
The talent of DE&S apprentices is being celebrated as part of National Apprenticeship Week.
DE&S currently employs more than 500 apprentices across nine schemes and recruits hundreds of new
faces every year from all backgrounds and experiences.
Jane Squire, DE&S head of entry talent, said: “Whether you’ve just left school, realised university is not
for you or are looking for a career change, an apprenticeship at DE&S could be a great gateway to a
successful career. The 500-plus apprentices currently working for the business come from all walks of
life. We’re an inclusive employer and we’re always looking for the best talent to develop
their future here with DE&S.
Bonus content at
"From engineering and finance to nurturing the next generation of corporate www.des.mod.uk
professionals, we have something for everyone.”
For more information about DE&S apprenticeships, visit www.des.mod.uk/careers
Dayne Lenton was unequivocal as he Poseidon team, added: “I didn’t do very well
summed up what it’s like to be an apprentice as I didn’t have the support, so I wanted to
at DE&S. throw myself back into education and I’ve
“This is the best employer I’ve ever had – managed to do much better.”
there’s so much available to you here,” said Distinctions in his Business and
the 31-year-old. Technology Education Council (BTEC)
“I was worried I might get forgotten and level three and Higher National Certificate
left out of all of the fun things or the big, (HNC) have followed, as has a letter of
important things, but every team I’ve been commendation from Bridgwater & Taunton
in has really tried to involve us and give us College, where he studies.
meaningful work that interests us, keeps Dayne worked in the NHS blood and
us moving along and maintains a drive to transplant facility in Filton before becoming
become better engineers.” a storekeeper at Team Leidos, which supports
As someone with autism and attention the MOD logistically. There, he spotted a
deficit hyperactivity disorder, Dayne DE&S recruitment email.
struggled at school in Bristol. “I saw what was on offer – the
Since becoming an apprentice he has qualifications, the job that hopefully comes
excelled in the academic department of out of it at the end if you pass all the courses,
the three-year advanced engineering and and I had nothing to lose really so I decided
management course. why not, just go for it,” he added.
Dayne, who recently joined the P-8A
After 20 years as a primary school teacher, “There’s also tailored training, so as well as
DE&S provided Jo Hall with an opportunity your academic study there is other training
to embark upon a completely different career. that is accessible to you provided internally
The mum-of-three is into her third so you can suit that to you and what your
and final year of a finance apprenticeship; training is.
working in cost control supporting a number “Having previously worked in the public
of Land projects including SHORAD (Short sector I was looking for another public sector
Range Air Defence). role, so that was another thing that drew me
“I loved my job as a teacher very much, to this.”
but it was taking over my life in the evenings With three children aged from 12 to 16, Jo
and weekends and it was time for a change,” has found the benefit of flexible working very
she said. helpful.
“I was looking to change career and I was “Sometimes I need to leave early to take
trying to think about something I could do them to places so it’s been a really useful part
and progress quite quickly. I wanted to do of the job,” she added.
something useful where I could study for a Inside work, Jo has enjoyed the variety
qualification.” of different placements, travelling to see
“I knew on the apprenticeship I definitely projects in action and the camaraderie.
had a day in college every week, which would “It’s a real mix of ages and there are people
make it easier to get back into the habit of at DE&S from all different places.”
studying.
18desider February 2020
Feature
The DE&S apprenticeship scheme is added: “Finding out that there were 250
presenting James Burton with opportunities applicants and only 18 of us were chosen was
he didn’t know existed. definitely a proud moment for me.”
The 29-year-old used to work 14 hours Over and above the job itself, James sees
a day, but beneath the surface a passion for numerous benefits of working for DE&S.
engineering was burning. He said: “You get the pension, which is
Four months into his engineering incredible, you get looked after, you get
management apprenticeship, he is loving his opportunities to go forward and develop
new direction in life. your skills as you work through it.
“Engineering is something I’d had a “Prior to this I was doing industrial
passion in for a long time and I was looking roofing, sheeting and cladding and was
around at jobs to see what was on the working maybe 13/14 hours a day. Here, you
market,” he said. get the opportunity of flexible working hours
“I saw the apprenticeship scheme and which suit you and a shorter working day.
thought that looked exactly like something “That means I get to enjoy some of my
I wanted to do with my life. It presented hobbies, which include going to the gym
opportunities that I previously didn’t know for an hour every evening and powerlifting
existed.” training.”
The student at Cornwall College’s
Engineering Skills Centre in Plymouth
With two elder brothers, all things military “I joined the apprenticeship scheme
were often a hot topic of conversation for because I thought it was a good way to get a
Rina Bendahan growing up. degree and I’m more of a hands-on learner,
Now the 23-year-old is a degree apprentice rather than just plain school learning.”
at DE&S she gets to see the wide variety Two years into a five-year scheme, Rina
of vehicles, vessels, aircraft and kit being works on magazine safety for maritime
procured up close. platforms and warships in harbour.
“I have two older brothers and that’s the “If you’re interested in it and push for it,
sort of thing we liked to talk about and you can get it,” she added.
watch when we were kids,” she said. “That’s “DE&S is very happy to continue your
basically where my interest comes from.” professional development and there are loads
Rina is a member of the Weapons of opportunities here to progress your career.
Ordnance Munitions and Explosives “I really enjoy going to see the kit we're
(WOME) team at the Submarine Delivery working on. That's been amazing. You can't
Agency/Naval Authority Group, which is a imagine it properly until you've actually been
far cry from her previous profession. to see it.”
“I was studying to be a paramedic,” she
said. “I was good at the job but I wanted to
expand my horizons.
Becoming an apprentice at DE&S was a for my son and I thought: ‘this is something
family affair for Peter McAfee. I can do’.
Having seen his son flourish after leaving “I wanted to look at learning a little bit
school and becoming an engineer, the more and broaden my work experience, and
57-year-old thought why not join up himself. it was ideal for me.
Having run a Post Office and shop with “The role has been interesting and
his wife Julia in South Gloucestershire for challenging in the sense that you have to
two decades, Peter already had a grasp of be very accurate. I enjoy the satisfaction of
numbers. getting things done.
Now he is working towards accounting “We are always learning. There are always
qualifications as a finance apprentice cost things that come up that are so unusual and
controller in the Ships domain at Abbey it’s good to be progressing and feeling that
Wood. you’re really getting on top of the job.
Peter said: “My son Nick came in at 16 and “I used to work 70-odd hours a week and
it was wonderful for him. to work 37.5, have one day a week to study
“He now has his degree, no debts, he’s on and be able to use the flexi-time system is
the housing ladder and has been supported wonderful. The terms and conditions we
really well by the MOD and the peers he have here are probably second to none.”
went in with.
“I just thought what a good scheme it was
19desider February 2020
DE&S People
CEO Commendations
DE&S former winners: on winning their awards and where they are now
Adrian Birch reflects on the CEO Commendation the
Sea Ceptor team was awarded
MoD and Industry team were this time I felt much more aware of team that has had a major success,
recognised at the highest level the presence of most of the ex-co then don’t be shy and put yourself
of the organisation and felt and 2-star directors and many forward.
enormously proud of what had senior customers and sponsors
been achieved. Inevitably, given of each award. The sense that this How have you built on your
the complexity of the development was an important event for DE&S success?
and integration programme, also came across strongly. After As is often the case, following
issues emerged. But the joint the main presentations there was achievement of a major project
Why were you nominated for team pulled together and through an opportunity to socialise and milestone, many of the team
this award? commitment, agility and excellent share experiences, both amongst have moved on to new projects
The award recognised the collaborative working, identified the award winners and with the and challenges, taking with them
team’s role in the development and implemented solutions DE&S and customer senior team, the valuable experience gained
and integration of the new world- without material impact to the and receive a pat on the back from through helping to introduce into
class Sea Ceptor Weapon System project schedule to deliver the COM(Land), which was definitely service a cutting-edge anti-air
onto Type 23 frigates for the Royal capability to the naval customer different from 10 years ago! weapon capability. However new
Navy, and achieving a successful in half the development time of blood has come into the team to
introduction into service. Sea similar projects. What would you say to other continue the roll-out of the system
Ceptor provides a step-change teams/individuals hoping to be to the rest of the Type 23 fleet,
in naval air defence capability What are your memories of the awarded a CEO Commendation? support the deployed systems, and
to counter emerging air threats, awards ceremony? A CEO Commendation is a prepare for its installation onto
protecting the host ships and I was fortunate enough to very tangible recognition of the further platforms such as the Type
wider maritime task group. be a member of a team that fantastic work that is performed 26 and Type 31. For my part, I
received a Chief of Defence across the acquisition community have moved to a new team, as a
This is the highest accolade you Materiel Award 10 years ago, so in support of the armed forces. partial retiree, changed functions,
can achieve within DE&S, how comparisons between the two There is keen competition for the and am enjoying applying my
did it feel? events were inevitable. There were awards, which reflects the breadth safety engineering experience to a
I was delighted that the similarities – same location in and quality of outputs in any year, different weapon system.
combined efforts of the joint Main Building, same format, but but if you know of or are in a
20desider February 2020
Feature
Pictured: Colonel Mike Duff and images of the decontamination of Salisbury during 2018 (Pictures by Beth Squire and submitted)
22desider February 2020
Feature
“I was briefed on what
Novichok was – a
phenomenally lethal
substance”
Colonel Mike Duff has been awarded an OBE for his key role in returning
Salisbury to normality following a nerve agent attack in 2018. Until now,
members of Operation Morlop have been sworn to secrecy, but with the
media ban relaxed he spoke with Desider editor Tom Morris
“
To be engaged in something that dominates both Laboratory (DSTL), Wiltshire Council, the NHS and
the national and international media was quite regional police, fire and ambulance services.
extraordinary,” Colonel Mike Duff says. “This was a multi-agency response and the level
He is referring to his year-long involvement, as a of innovation and professionalism demonstrated by
mobilised Army Reservist, in the decontamination of all involved, given the nature and complexity of the
Salisbury following the attempted murder by nerve incident, was exceptional,” Mike said.
agent of former Russian intelligence officer Sergei By June 2018 the operation was proceeding well
Skripal. and with most sites decontaminated, Mike said there
The idea that this pretty city, known for its was a genuine feeling there was light at the end of the
majestic cathedral, medieval walls and proximity tunnel.
to Stonehenge, could be the scene of an attempted But, on June 30, he was alerted to a similar
assassination using such an unconventional weapon poisoning just seven miles away in the small town of
seemed unfathomable. Amesbury. This resulted in the death of an innocent
Novichok, the nerve agent used in the March 2018 woman and a man ending up in a critical condition.
attack, also struck down Skripal’s daughter Yulia, who It was quickly established that both had been
had been visiting her father. Despite the substance’s exposed to Novichok as the result of contact with a
lethal nature they both survived, thanks mainly to the fake perfume bottle containing the nerve agent.
incredible work by the local health services. Mike said: “Following the events in Amesbury
Just a few days after the attack, Mike, whose we had a new set of contaminated sites to clean
civilian job is with DE&S at Abbey Wood, had started due to both this tragic event and the spread of
a period of Easter leave and was looking forward to contamination caused by the immediate response to
some relaxation at his home in Wiltshire. it.
However, within 24 hours of starting his leave “People forget this, but every time the Chemical
the regional Army headquarters, now commanding Biological Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) teams
the military response to the attack, asked Mike went in to decontaminate these sites they were in
to mobilise and deploy to Salisbury for what was genuine danger – and teams deployed almost every
expected to be just a couple of weeks. day throughout the whole operation. This was an
“My transition from DE&S civil servant to incredibly well-trained and courageous group of
mobilised service happened very quickly,” Mike said, people who did their job with minimum fuss and
adding: “On day one of my deployment I was briefed fanfare.”
on what Novichok was and what it could do. This Finally, he is determined to register his thanks
really focused the mind – it’s a phenomenally lethal to those at DE&S who covered his absence and is
substance.” extremely grateful that the organisation allowed him
As the increasing gravity of the situation became to take part in such an operation.
apparent his mobilised service was extended to “I am incredibly grateful for DE&S’ support during
two months and, by the time the military’s role was this incredible period of my life,” Mike says.
completed, he had spent a year away from his day job. “The speed at which I was allowed to mobilise was
His role in the operation meant Mike worked incredible and I owe all of those who stepped in to
alongside a huge number of stakeholders including cover my role in my absence a huge debt of gratitude.”
the Department for Environment Food & Rural
Affairs (DEFRA), Defence Science and Technology
23desider February 2020
Picture: Jack Eckersley
DE&S
News
People
Emma stars again at British Transplant Games
R
esource support manager normal working duties.
Emma Barnes was again in “I’ve been lucky to receive
the medals after competing support from the CSSC and DE&S
for Great Britain at Badminton in allowing me time off to be able
in her second World Transplant to take part in the Games. I hope
Games along with more than 2,000 that this support continues
other transplant recipients from when I plan to compete in
around the world. future Games,” said Emma.
After receiving a liver transplant Speaking of her future
due to a rare form of cancer in goals, Emma said: “I’m
2013, Emma was encouraged by preparing for the British
the nurses who looked after her Transplant Games which
at Kings College Hospital to take will be held in Coventry
part in the Games which are held later this summer and
annually. I’m hoping I do well
Emma, who works in Defence enough to be selected
Supply Chain Operations and to go to the next World
Movements (DSCOM), said: “I Games which are being
enjoyed playing various sports held in the USA in Texas
whilst I was at school, so was next year. Ultimately,
excited to get back into doing I would like to get the
sport again once I was fully message out more
recovered from my transplant. The about organ donation
games gave me the opportunity to and give hope to those
do exactly that.” people who may be
The transplant Games were need a transplant.”
formed to encourage patients to For more
regain fitness and give athletes the information about
motivation to strive towards full becoming an organ
rehabilitation whilst championing donor, visit www.
the value of donation and raising organdonation.
public awareness of organ and nhs.uk
tissue donation.
Emma explained: “The Games
are open to people who have
received an organ or stem cell
transplant and through the Games
I’ve met so many other people
that have been through similar
experiences as me and competing
together is so rewarding.”
Emma has taken part four times
now in the British Transplant
Games and following on from
success in these was selected to
represent Great Britain in the
World Transplant Games which
are held every two years.
With various sports on offer
ranging from athletics, swimming
and cycling, Emma competed
in badminton singles, women’s
doubles and mixed doubles,
which were held this year at
a state-of-the-art complex in
Sport Central at Northumbria
University in Newcastle. Emma
celebrated winning bronze
medals in all her events and the
host GB & NI team topped the
medals table.
“The games are a way for
people to showcase what they
can do after their transplant
and a way to celebrate life itself
as none of us would be here
if it wasn’t for our donor,”
Emma said.
Training hard every week
with local badminton groups
and coaches, Emma has
been able to focus on her
development alongside her
24desider February 2020
DE&S People
60 second spotlight
"Walking is my great passion, especially fell walking"
Jill Ruddick
Northumberland. I bought
a book called “Lakeland to
Lindisfarne” by John Gilham
Job: in a National Trust shop and
kept it for a few years before I
Head of Establishment and suggested undertaking the walk
Business Support Senior to my husband. It took a bit of
Management planning finding suitable B&Bs,
pubs and hotels to stay at, but
Your route into DE&S? it felt like a massive adventure.
We completed the walk across
I previously worked at the the Lake District, the Pennines
regimental headquarters of The and across Northumberland to
Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment Holy Island where we’d been
at Carlisle Castle. Following a married six years earlier. The
Strategic Defence and Security satisfaction of seeing the sea
Review and the amalgamation in Northumberland, knowing
of regiments, my post was we’d crossed the country under
declared surplus. I was in our own steam, was immense.
the redeployment pool for 18 And to add to that we raised
months prior to being tipped just under £1,300 for The Great
off by my union rep that there North Air Ambulance.
was a job that might suit me at
DM Longtown. I applied, had a If you were sent to a desert
suitability interview and the rest, island, what three things
as they say, is history. That was would you take with you?
just over 10 years ago.
My husband as he’s my best
Your claim to fame? friend. Art materials as I’d have
the time to learn to paint. Wool
I have no claim to fame, but my to knit or crochet new clothes - it
15 minutes of fame came when, would help to satisfy my creative
on the spur of the moment, I urge whilst doing something
rang the Jeremy Vine Show useful.
when they were doing a feature
on chip pan fires as my brother What irritates you the most?
had slept through a chip pan fire
and lived to tell the tale! Climate change is a hot
topic but no-one ever
Your advice to anyone? mentions addressing World
overpopulation.
I try not to give advice because it
can backfire, but I tend to believe What is your favourite place
that if you treat people decently in the world?
and with compassion, they will
return the favour. Holy Island in Northumberland.
As I said earlier, I was married
What do you do when you’re there, and it never loses its
away from work? mystical allure and fascination for Do you or
me (despite the hordes of other
Walking is my great passion, tourists when the tide goes out). I someone you
especially fell walking when I
can muster the effort to drive to
love the big skies, its history, the know deserve
birds and freedom and walking
the Lake District. I have plenty its amazing beaches. their 60 seconds
of energy for walking, but the
driving bit is a tad boring. What would surprise people
in the spotlight?
about you?
What are you most proud of? Email
I’m really quite shy. Louisa.Keefe101@mod.gov.uk
Apart from my daughter, I’m
most proud of walking coast
to coast from Ravenglass
in Cumbria to Holy Island in
26
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