In 2023, we became the 10,000th signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant as part of our commitment to improve the lives of service people and their families. More recently, we’ve introduced an internal Veteran and Military Families Support Community which connects Partners from across the business who may have a partner, spouse, parent, sibling or other family member who is serving or has served in the military.

The Partnership has a strong heritage of supporting the armed forces and, as a Purpose-driven business, we pride ourselves on inclusiveness. We’re committed to ensuring we provide opportunities to people from all backgrounds, including those with links to the military.

We have many current Partners (employees) working in various roles across the business including Project Managers, Senior Leaders, HGV Drivers and more. There are plenty of opportunities for those leaving service to transfer their skills into the Partnership.

But don’t just take our word for it. We recently caught up with some of our Partners who wanted to share their own personal experiences of leaving the Armed Forces and finding a career in the Partnership. 

Gary’s Story

Regional Distribution Centre Planning Manager

After not knowing what I wanted to do for a job after I left the RAF, a couple of fellow Veterans had just secured warehouse jobs with Waitrose. I originally joined on the 6am – 2pm morning shift (which suited me at the time as I was able to pick my young children up from school). I thought, this will work in the short term. I have regular hours on a shift that suits my family and will help whilst I work out what career path I want to follow.

I quickly recognised that there are many similarities between the Armed Forces and the Partnership; structure, solid ethics, rules, great training, development and teamwork.

I honestly never saw it as a long term career but, 33-years later, the Partnership has offered me wonderful opportunities and support. From training and development, to job variety and a great team ethic.

Angela’s Story

Physician

I joined the RAF in the 1980s as a doctor. I served in many locations, and latterly at RAF Brize Norton. For the past 12 years I have been the Partnership’s doctor.

I have found the same ethics, teamwork and camaraderie in the Partnership as I valued in the military.

I have met many ex-service personnel in a wide variety of roles since joining the Partnership. I would recommend the John Lewis Partnership as a great fit for those who are looking for a follow on career after serving in the military.

Aaron’s Story

Supermarket Assistant

I got injured in Afghanistan in September 2010. I lost my sergeant and one of my closest friends in the incident. I was left with a fractured spine and hip. Very lucky it was only just that. I had my spine fused and my hip pinned, which meant in November 2012 I was Medically Discharged from the army for my injuries and having PTSD.

I applied for a job at Waitrose in the middle of 2013 – it was only meant to be a stop gap – but 11 years later, I am still here!

The Partnership as a whole have been fantastic when it comes to helping me, especially as I can have some very up and down days.

Winter months are the worst for me, as it really affects my spine and hip. There are many people within my branch who don’t really know my story, as I suffer from survivor’s guilt. But I thought I would write this to show that the Partnership is a brilliant place for all ex-service people.

Lance’s Story

Supermarket Assistant

I’m an army veteran and have worked at Waitrose Cheltenham for 8-years. I enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for wines and interacting with our customers.

I was originally commissioned into the Grenadier Guards and then spent 26-years in the Army Reserve and served in Bosnia, Kosovo and Afghanistan. I then became Commandant of Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force.

I was, until recently, Chairman of Wessex Reserve Forces & Cadets Association which promotes the Armed Forces Covenant in the South West of England and I’m currently involved in four veterans associations and charities alongside my work at the Partnership.