Babcock and BAE Systems were joint winners in the 2025 ranking of the UK’s top 50 ‘Employers for Veterans’ list, published by Forces in Business.
The list, part of the GREAT British Employers of Veterans programme, recognised organisations offering clear and supportive pathways for veterans, reservists and military families.
The assessment process combined data with expert evaluation by an independent judging panel made up of 21 business leaders who are also veterans.
The panel included representatives from Asda, Fortinet, the University of Cambridge, RICS and the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance.
Ben Rossi, founder of the global Forces in Business Awards series and the 50 GREAT British Employers of Veterans programme, said: “This comprehensive ranking of Forces Friendly employers has become a cornerstone resource for veterans, reservists and their families – and a powerful benchmark for organisations seeking to lead in veteran employment.
“To feature in the Top 50 is to stand among the most committed supporters of the Armed Forces community. Inclusion is not easily earned.
“The 2025 list reflects a growing coalition of employers who truly understand military talent, setting best practice and proving that investing in the Armed Forces community is not just the right thing to do – it’s a clear strategic advantage. We applaud you all.”
The top 10 organisations in the 2025 ranking were Babcock, BAE Systems, Serco, Inzpire, Centrica, FDM Group, Company X Consulting, MBDA UK, Microsoft and Northrop Grumman UK.
Other employers in the top 50 included NHS Business Services Authority, Landmarc Support Services, Lloyd’s of London, Siemens Mobility, Mitie, Fujitsu, Savills, Airbus and GE Aerospace.
Reaction:
David Henretty, chair of the Mears Armed Forces Network:
“Being recognised once again as one of the Top 50 Employers of Veterans is a real honour and a testament to the inclusive culture we’re building at Mears.
“We’re committed to supporting veterans and reservists in finding fulfilling careers beyond service, and this achievement reflects the hard work of so many across the business who continue to advocate for the Armed Forces community every day.”
Kate Mallard, head of HR at Landmarc:
“We are incredibly proud to be named one of the Top 50 British Employers of Veterans.
“The values, resilience and leadership of our Armed Forces communities make a lasting impact on our teams, and we remain committed to supporting them at every stage of their careers.”
Sarah Wilkes, managing director of Frazer-Nash:
“We are incredibly proud to be recognised as one of the UK’s top employers for the armed forces community.
“This achievement reflects the values we live by every day and the deep respect we have for the skills, experience and dedication that veterans and their families bring to our organisation.
“We remain committed to creating an environment where they can thrive and continue to make a difference.”
Hannah Wiltshire, member of the Armed Forces Community Committee:
“Being recognised as one of the UK’s Top 50 Employers for the armed forces community is a fantastic achievement, particularly after our Gold ERS Award last year.
“Our community continues to be recognised, with individuals also receiving formal recognition of their support to their local armed forces communities as reservists, cadet force adult volunteers and veterans.”