A member of an East Kilbride college's management board has been awarded ‘Reservist of the Year 2022’ at the Ex-forces Business Awards.
South Lanarkshire College Chairing Member of the Board of Management, Paul Hutchinson, gained the accolade because of the work he undertakes for the Army Reserves and for the reserve skills he implements in his civilian career.
The Ex-Forces in Business Awards is the world’s largest celebration of ex-military in second careers – it recognises the value veterans add to businesses, as well as the employers that support the transition of servicemen and women.
Founded in 2017 by Disruptive Media Group, the Ex-Forces in Business Awards is the flagship platform globally for providing that visibility by celebrating the achievements of veterans in the wider workforce.
It also promotes the strong synergies between military values and business excellence.
The awards highlight the military-gained skills and qualities that have helped enable their business achievements and recognises the organisations that have supported them.
Paul who was nominated for the prestigious award by his line manager at Atkins - one of the world's most respected design, engineering, and project management consultancies - is currently the second in command of 51 Signal Squadron in Edinburgh.
They provide tactical voice communication networks to support deployed headquarters.
Paul’s role in the squadron ensures that the team retains capability and is ready to support operations.
Paul told Lanarkshire Live : “I was delighted to be awarded ‘Reservist of the Year’ for 2022. I was presented the award by TV Presenter Jacqui Oatley MBE, and Kevin Gartside from Barclays.
"The awards were presented at a star-studded ceremony, in the famed Great Room of Grosvenor House, Park Lane.
"I was surprised and thrilled to hear of my nomination and win, as I first joined the Armed Forces in 1993 and left in 1999, before joining the Reserves in 2017, meaning I had a gap of 18 years in my military service."
Paul added: “South Lanarkshire College, of which I am the current Chairing Member of the Board of Management, signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2019, acknowledging the importance and value of the training and experience that is accrued during military service.
"Life in the military is a sound grounding for student education, as along with technical experience, you will also learn softer skills such as, loyalty, commitment, integrity, leadership, and a willingness to get on and be a true team player for the greater success of an organisation all qualities which are essential in any well-run business today."
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