Centrica

As a leading UK energy provider and parent of British Gas, Centrica is transitioning itself and customers to net zero. With 9,000 engineers and technicians, it already employs over 450 UK veterans but wants more military talent for its workforce of the future. In 2022 Centrica launched a full-time resourced Ex-Forces Pathway, focused on recruiting service leavers, reservists, partners and veterans into roles from apprentice to senior leadership. Over 150 individuals joined in the first year across functions like engineering, customer service, project management and pathway head. Direct military recruitment is enabled, with a new paid Military Leadership Placement also being trialled. This develops high-potential leavers through 6 months of commercial experience before retention and promotion. Centrica has a ‘FlexFirst’ approach allowing employees to balance delivery, connectivity and wellbeing rather than fixed office days. An Armed Forces Covenant signatory since 2013, and currently Silver ERS rated, Centrica provides reservists 10 additional leave days for training. The Ex-Forces Pathway works closely with Centrica’s 300+ strong internal Forces Network of veterans, reserves, spouses and supporters. Established in 2021, the network has a leadership team, charter, “buddy” system for new military hires, and guiding principles with members at its heart. It runs webinars and supports Pathway employment events through member volunteers. Wellbeing resources assist all employees and families. Centrica’s net zero mission by 2045 depends on the forces community’s skills to shape the future. The company is building a flexible, diverse and inclusive workplace reflecting its customers and communities, with first-class training for future skills. Real solutions need real people from all backgrounds. In summary, via its Pathway, Forces Network and flexible working, Centrica actively supports military recruitment, transition and development for its net zero future. With 450 veterans already, it is committed to harnessing exceptional forces talent.