Celebrating and supporting our veterans at the Forces in Business Awards 2025

Published: 27 June 2025

Supporting ex-forces personnel is a core part of life for us – and a key strand of our ESG commitments. With over 115 veterans across the Group, we’re proud to offer meaningful careers to those transitioning from military service.

Last night, on 26 June, we attended the Forces in Business Awards in London – including our three shortlisted ex-military colleagues: David Pound, for Service Leaver of the Year; Jason Collins, for Team Leader of the Year; and Simon Wiley, also for Service Leaver of the Year.

These awards – along with national events like Armed Forces Day on 28 June – celebrate the impact that former Armed Forces personnel make in civilian roles, and we were proud to see our people recognised.

David Pound

Shortlisted for Service Leaver of the Year

After five years in the British Army Welsh Guards, David joined Adler & Allan and manages environmental response tasks and teams.

He completed an 18-week project at an MOD site, finishing on time, on budget, and without incidents. In 2023, David responded to a superyacht fire in Torquay Harbour, preventing fuel contamination from affecting other vessels.

Jason Collins

Shortlisted for Team Leader of the Year

Jason joined Adler & Allan in 1996 after military service. He developed a new on-site inspection report process, improving accuracy and reducing turnaround time. Customers and colleagues praise his professionalism.

He also once raised over £500 for the Royal British Legion through an endurance motorcycle challenge.

Simon Wiley

Shortlisted for Service Leaver of the Year

Before joining Group company Aqua Consultants, Simon served 23 years in the Royal Marines, including tours in Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq.

He manages a portfolio made up of more than 40 projects with a value over £150m for Northumbrian Water Group, leading his team to generate £1.6m in savings.

Simon mentors junior project managers and supports veterans' mental health. He raised over £75,000 for the Royal Marines Charity and over £1,000 for Help for Heroes.

Their nominations reflect the professionalism and valuable skills that veterans bring to businesses like ours.

Support beyond award recognition

At the heart of our commitment is our military community group. Led by Ryan Stockwell and supported by area champions including Simon Wiley, Tom McNulty, Lee Bond, Shaun Bennett, Mya Huntley, Anthony Lavery, Gavin Greenfield, Victoria Galli, and Aaron Robinson, the group provides guidance, connection, and advocacy for colleagues with a military background. Their dedication shapes how we support veterans day-to-day.

This year alone we’ve welcomed 23 new veterans and expanded our support for adult cadet volunteers and reservists across the Group. It’s one way we keep the 'S' in ESG front and centre – by backing those who’ve served with practical support and career opportunities.

We are excited about the opportunities and growth that the rest of the year will bring as we continue to make a difference by supporting veterans in their transition to civilian roles or those seeking a change in their career paths.