Case Studies

Martin and Barry: enhancing the NHS Scotland workforce

Martin and Barry’s service in the Armed Forces means they naturally aligned with NHS Scotland values, and they continue their service by bringing resilience, adaptability, and working at pace, to the organisation.

Barry: supporting access to employment pathways

After an exceptional 24 year career in the British Army, Barry completed his service at the rank of Warrant Officer Class 2. His military tenure was distinguished by specialist roles, most notably as a Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) Photographer within the Defence Human Intelligence Unit (DHU).

Through his Armed Forces service, Barry has developed broad experience in strategic communication and media, project management, strategic leadership and management, and operational planning in complex environments. 

Honing these skills positioned Barry strongly for a civilian career focused on public service and organisational improvement.

Barry’s drive and ability to coordinate across teams, and contributing to service improvement, speaks to his commitment to promote NHS Scotland values through his role.

Following his transition from the Armed Forces, Barry started working as a Project Officer within Employability Services at NHS Tayside, through the Paid Placements initiative of the Armed Forces Talent Programme (AFTP) for 6 months. 

Barry recently secured a permanent role as an Information Governance Officer within NHS Tayside’s Information Governance and Cyber Assurance Team, which he considers a success of his resettlement from the Armed Forces via the AFTP. He continues to bring value by leaning into his disciplined approach to work, analytical thinking, and his natural ability to bring people together across teams at a multi-disciplinary organisation like NHS Scotland.

Martin: strengthening NHS Scotland’s digital infrastructure

Martin served an accomplished career within the Royal Regiment of Scotland, concluding his service as a Platoon Sergeant in 2 SCOTS (The Royal Highland Fusiliers). Throughout his time in the Infantry, Martin developed a comprehensive skillset shaped by demanding operational environments that translated into skills embedded in leadership, planning, risk management, and strategic analysis. 

Martin’s strengths, developed throughout his Armed Forces career, align directly with roles requiring coordination, accountability, and structured delivery: qualities highly valued across NHS Scotland.

Martin brings a wealth of experience and skills to NHS Scotland – further developing and enhancing the way in which national Health and Social Care services are delivered.

Martin entered NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) through the first round of placements initiated by the AFTP. During his placement, he quickly demonstrated his adeptness at working within complex organisational environments at pace. 

Following his placement, Martin secured a permanent role at NSS as a Project Manager where he continues to apply his translatable skills and carve a rewarding career pathway. He remains a strong advocate for the effectiveness of the AFTP in bringing together the Armed Forces community and NHS Scotland to support a sustainable workforce.