Nottinghamshire Police has welcomed many ex-military personnel who’ve chosen to join the force as their next career path
From frontline officers to support staff, there are a number of opportunities available to those looking for a civilian career.
Finding a new purpose
Dave Nicks, a former Grenadier Guard, served in the military from 1991-1995, undertaking a range of public duties including Trooping the Colour, Royal Palace Guards and State Opening of Parliament. He also completed an operational tour of South Armagh in Northern Ireland.
Wanting to make a difference to the community which he grew up in, Dave joined Nottinghamshire Police in 2000 and has since had a versatile career – starting on response then moving into the firearms unit, to becoming a beat manager, then a detective followed by a detective sergeant, to now working as a custody sergeant.
“Having served in the Guards, much of the skillset can be used, particularly having an organised approach, maintaining professionalism and always being ready to move. These have stood me in good stead throughout my career and are standards I continue to uphold”.
Transferable skills
Leaving the armed forces and returning to civilian life is a big transition, but a career in policing offers a new way to serve the community that is both rewarding and fulfilling.
No two days are ever the same and you’re able to maintain the camaraderie and overarching team spirit that you get with the military.
Join Nottinghamshire Police
“We actively welcome applications from ex-military personnel and we’re proud to support veterans in building a rewarding second career with us.
Individuals with a military background bring with them a wealth of skills and personal qualities that make them highly effective within policing.
Service life develops discipline, resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure – all vital attributes to engage and serve our communities.
Many also have experience of leadership, problem-solving and the ability to de-escalate conflict which are uniquely placed to help them thrive and make a difference within Nottinghamshire Police.”
– Claire Salter, Head of People Services.
Supporting our armed forces
Nottinghamshire Police was awarded the Gold Award as part of the Armed Forces Covenant and the Employer Recognition Scheme. It also actively ensures its workforce is aware of its positive policies towards issues relating to those in the forces and are advocates in support of those issues to partner organisations, suppliers, and customers.
Of its 4,269 employees, there are currently more than 100 ex-military personnel in varying roles including taser trainers, digital support managers and control room managers.
In 2024, Nottinghamshire Police it was named Employer of the Year in the Boots and Beret awards hosted by Nottinghamshire County Council after winning the Community Together award in the previous year.
Please visit: www.nottinghamshire.police.uk/careers to see current vacancies. Additionally, you can request further information by emailing recruitment@notts.police.uk
