Empowering defence capability: Amey’s sponsored reserves and the whole force

Integrating civilian expertise through the whole force approach

Reserves play a vital role in national defence. By bringing specialist expertise from engineering, IT, logistics, and project management, Reservists bridge civilian and military spheres. Their unique insights and skills boost operational capabilities and provide fresh perspectives that drive innovation. The Ministry of Defence’s strategic objectives highlight the importance of leveraging this talent, but realising these goals requires more than policy. It demands dedicated collaboration with corporate partners willing to invest in and nurture Reservist talent.

An evolving strategy is the Whole Force Approach (WFA), a concept championed by the UK Ministry of Defence to create a fully integrated and adaptable Defence workforce. The Whole Force Approach recognises that operational effectiveness is best achieved not by relying solely on Regular military personnel, but by drawing on the strengths and expertise of Reservists, civilians, contractors, and industry partners alike. This broadened perspective ensures that the Armed Forces can access a wider pool of talent, specialist skills, and flexible resources, responding rapidly to emerging challenges. By blurring traditional boundaries and encouraging collaboration across sectors, the WFA enables Defence to deliver its mission with greater agility, resilience, and innovation within challenging economic conditions - qualities essential for success in the face of modern threats.

The WFA concept sees an individual employed by a contractor seamlessly moving from delivering contracted services as a contractor employee in a benign environment, to contracted capability in a deployed benign environment, to contracted capability on deployed operations (CONDO) to fully mobilised Reservist in uniform possibly in a high threat environment. The range of options for the Ministry of Defence to generate the capability it requires in the threat scenario envisaged without having to commit Regular personnel provides an efficient solution to maintaining operational readiness within constrained resources. Where the WFA differs from other Sponsored Reserve programmes is that Amey and the Ministry of Defence share the capitation costs, further enhancing value for money for the Armed Forces.

Building a culture that supports Reservists

The existing approach centres on creating a supportive environment for Sponsored Reservists, recognising that this commitment strengthens both the business and the military. Using the principles of the Whole Force Approach, tailored HR policies and a culture that values flexibility and career development are enabling Reservists to thrive in these unique roles. By offering flexible working arrangements, Amey enables Reservists to participate in training and deployments without putting their careers at risk, which in turn reduces attrition and ensures they return with enhanced experience and leadership skills. The company actively encourages employees to consider Reserve service, not only by raising awareness of its benefits but also by simplifying the application process. Recognition programmes highlight the achievements of reservists, bolstering morale and inspiring others throughout the workforce to get involved.

Maintaining close partnership with the Ministry of Defence and military units ensures alignment with defence needs, facilitating smoother mobilisation and reintegration. This collaboration drives mutual benefit, advancing both the UK military’s strategic objectives and Amey’s corporate agenda.

Inclusive recruitment practices also play a key role in modernising the military. By welcoming reservists of all backgrounds - including gender, ethnicity, and experience - private sector organisations can help reinforce values of equality and diversity, which underpin effective leadership and decision-making. This inclusive culture is essential for strengthening civilian-military links and building a resilient workforce that reflects society as a whole.

Leadership development is also integral to Amey’s approach. Reservists routinely demonstrate adaptability and public service, and the company invests in tailored programmes to support career progression both in a corporate and military context. This dual investment helps to identify future leaders and prepare them to meet the complex security challenges of the 21st century.

As the UK Armed Forces continue to transform, the support of industry partners like Amey are more vital than ever. By fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusion, Amey not only meets its corporate responsibilities but also helps secure the nation’s future. This commitment to reservists is more than policy; it represents a strategic partnership that delivers lasting value for Defence, employees, and society. As military challenges grow more complex, such partnerships will become indispensable in building the adaptable, talented, and integrated workforce essential for operational success.