Shield Reply awarded Silver Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award in recognition of support for ex-military personnel

3 September 2025

Shield Reply is proud to have been awarded the Silver Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award, acknowledging their commitment to supporting ex-military service leavers as they transition into civilian careers. This recognition highlights their ongoing efforts to create meaningful opportunities within digital technology roles across the Defence, Security and Intelligence sectors.

To receive the Silver Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, organisations must have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and already hold the Bronze Award, demonstrating progress through established plans and policies. They must ensure fair recruitment practices that do not disadvantage service personnel or members of the armed forces community. Employers are expected to raise internal awareness of their support, particularly through positive HR policies on Reservists, and to offer at least five days' additional leave for Reserve training. They should also support the wider cadet movement and must not have been subject to any negative publicity.

“Having served 27 years in the military and making the transition to civilian work over 10 years ago, I understand the value veterans bring to companies” commented Jim Mulholland, Partner at Shield Reply, “We’re grateful to the Employee Recognition Scheme for supporting Service leavers and employers. We firmly believe that the ERS work is absolutely essential to support the successful career step from military life to the civilian workplace." Mulholland went on to elaborate, “At Shield Reply, 20% of our workforce are ex-military, with more joining soon. As a tech company in Defence, Security, and Intelligence, veterans’ experience alongside tech experts helps us meet customer needs effectively.”

“It has been a real pleasure working with Shield Reply this year on their application for the Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Award,” said Emily Kadoch, Defence Relationship Manager at Wessex Reserve Forces & Cadets Association. “The Silver Award recognises organisations supporting the armed forces community, including reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers, and military families. Shield Reply employs both Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and veterans, understanding their importance. Their support, such as providing paid leave for Reservist and Cadet Force Adult Volunteer employees, goes beyond the award criteria. I look forward to celebrating this achievement later this year.”

With obtaining the Silver ERS Award, Shield Reply reinforces its commitment to supporting the armed forces community, and strengthens its position as a trusted technology partner in the Defence, Security, and Intelligence sectors, where veteran insight and technical excellence drive meaningful impact.
To learn more about Employer Recognition Scheme, visit: here.