Clarke Telecom at the BuildForce Employer Engagement Event
We had a great time at the BuildForce Employer Engagement Event in Manchester on Wednesday 1st October, showing our continued support as a Strategic Partner of BuildForce and championing careers for ex-military.
The event brought together veterans, service leavers, and reservists with employers from across the construction and telecoms industries. It was a brilliant opportunity to chat with attendees about the wide range of roles available across the Renew Holdings plc group — including right here at Clarke Telecom.
Connecting military talent with new careers
Alongside other Renew partner businesses, our team spoke with ex-military attendees about what a career in telecoms could look like. There was a great employer workshop, where we shared ideas on how military skills can transfer into our industry and how we can better support that transition.
We’ve always recognised the value veterans bring: leadership, adaptability, teamwork, all qualities that align perfectly with our culture and help drive our business forward.
"We’re passionate about creating an environment where people can thrive and build long-term careers. With a workforce that already includes ex-military, we see firsthand the skills and values they bring. Through our partnership with BuildForce, we’re proud to support individuals as they transition into civilian life and help them unlock new opportunities to grow with us."
– Rachael Stanner, Head of HR at Clarke Telecom
Meet our BuildForce Mentor
We’re also proud to have Phil Shawcross, Operational Support Manager, as our BuildForce mentor. Phil plays a key role in guiding and supporting service leavers as they explore new career paths with us.
Phil joined the Army in 1985 straight from school, enlisting in the Royal Corps of Signals. On completion of his training Phil was posted to 22 Signal Regiment, Lippstadt, West Germany. During this time he conducted tours to the Falkland Islands and Kuwait.
He was then posted to 2 Signal Regiment in York, again conducting tours in Cyprus and Belize before moving to 16 Signal Regiment West Germany where he ran communications detachments in Herford & Osnabruck. On completion of his posting Phil was posted to 1 Mechanized Brigade in Tidworth where he took on the training role for the Brigade Headquarters & Signal Squadron. During this time he completed a tour to Bosnia & Herzegovina.
A posting to 16 Air Assault Brigade HQ & Signal Squadron followed where Phil oversaw the deployment of the Forward Headquarters to Iraq.
Phil Completed his service with postings as an Army Recruiter running the Kirkby Office near Liverpool and as a Permanent Staff Instructor to the Reservists with 32 Signal Regiment. Phil left the service in 2014 securing a position in Clarke Telecom after conducting a work placement.
He brings a wealth of experience from his time in the military, including Telcommunications, Training, Facilities Management and Recruitment. His insight and support are invaluable to both our team and the veterans we meet.
Why BuildForce matters
BuildForce is a UK-wide initiative that connects service leavers and veterans with careers in construction and the built environment. As a Strategic Partner, we’re proud to support their mission and help bridge the gap between military and civilian careers. Click the button to learn more about BuildForce.
Join Us
We’re committed to offering meaningful careers, training, and progression for everyone. If you’re transitioning from the military or know someone who is we’d love to hear from you. Click the button to explore our current opportunities.