VALOUR Field Officer - South West (East)

Overview and Location

This role is based in Tidworth, covering the regions of Somerset, Dorset, BCP, and Wiltshire, requiring frequent travel within these areas as well as to other UK locations. Travel expenses related to work away from the base location will be reimbursed according to departmental policies.

About the Role

The Office for Veterans’ Affairs (OVA), part of the Ministry of Defence, oversees the Veterans Strategy which aims to reshape society’s approach toward those who have served in the Armed Forces. This strategy is structured around three core themes to ensure the best outcomes for veterans and the UK, committed to the Armed Forces Covenant.

VALOUR, launched in May 2025 with a £50 million fund, is the first nationwide government-led initiative to enhance access to health, housing, and employment services for ex-Service personnel.

Joining this innovative initiative provides an opportunity to work within a passionate and forward-thinking environment focused on transforming veteran support across the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with a variety of stakeholders including local governments and the VCSE Sector to connect services across regional and national levels, supported by data-driven approaches.
• Serve as a vital liaison between Defence and local communities on veterans’ affairs and act as a subject matter expert for Defence teams.
• Utilize data insights to support collaboration, influence policy and delivery at regional and local scales, and improve veteran services.
• Facilitate greater alignment among national, devolved, and local strategies to ensure consistent implementation of the Armed Forces Covenant and enhanced community services.
• Foster trust, promote innovation, and proactively strengthen relationships to better the landscape of veteran support.
• Organize and lead sub-regional forums to engage relevant stakeholders and maintain clear communication channels.
• Identify and drive initiatives on strategic priorities within local government partnerships.
• Contribute to ongoing improvement of the VALOUR system by enhancing visibility of veteran support and sharing best practices.
• Advocate for statutory services and influence regional strategies to improve outcomes for the Armed Forces community.

Candidate Profile

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with proven experience managing diverse stakeholder relationships across sectors and seniority levels.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including confident public speaking and presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder management, collaborative working, and facilitating forums.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work remotely, take initiative, and organize workloads effectively.
• Capacity to navigate complex environments and solve problems analytically.
• Awareness of the Armed Forces Covenant, challenges of military service, and transition to civilian life.
• Willingness to travel frequently, mainly locally and regionally, with occasional UK-wide travel.

Desirable Qualifications

• Possession of a full UK Driving Licence.
• Experience working within the Armed Forces community support network.
• Understanding of local government structures and Armed Forces support services.

Terms and Benefits

The post is a full-time role at 37 hours per week, offering a salary of £37,720 plus a Civil Service pension contribution of £10,927. The position supports tailored learning and development, flexible working arrangements (including hybrid office and remote work), and promotes inclusion and diversity.

No relocation expenses are provided. A six-month probation period applies to new Civil Service entrants. The position requires adherence to a smoke-free working environment policy and commitment to the Ministry of Defence’s values and health standards. The role's duties may evolve, requiring flexibility to meet changing priorities.

Applicants should note that pay-related allowances are under review which may affect current entitlements. Childcare voucher schemes are not available but other government schemes may apply.

Additional Information

The Ministry of Defence may contact candidates for feedback to improve recruitment processes, in compliance with data protection regulations. Responsible use of artificial intelligence tools is advised when applying; all submitted materials must be truthful and original.