Mears Group plc

As a leading UK housing solutions provider, Mears manages and maintains social housing and 11,000 homes across Britain. Keeping 750,000 social homes repaired makes it the largest maintenance and regeneration provider.

Holder of the MoD’s Gold Employer Recognition Scheme award, Mears regularly attends Career Transition Partnership events to network with skilled service leavers and partners, promoting its many opportunities. Around 28 veterans currently work for Mears.

An Armed Forces Working Group drives military activities, chaired by Mears' Armed Forces Champion.

Mears recognises military-gained skills like resilience, leadership, problem-solving and teamwork, which also benefit partners. Vacancies are shared on military job boards. Guaranteed interviews are offered to suitable veteran applicants, plus short work placements for experience.

Diverse roles across Mears emphasise transferable skills from the Armed Forces. Any role-specific development is incorporated into personal plans. Where service qualifications lack onsite experience, placements are provided. With no experience, apprenticeships across trades and support services are offered.

Personal development plans are regularly reviewed at one-to-ones and appraisals, identifying progression opportunities.

An Armed Forces policy defines obligations to reservists, veterans, partners etc. Manager guidance assists in supporting those groups.

Flexible working is considered for all. Mears seeks to support reservists with leave or work pattern changes. Employees are released for reservist duties with continuous service. In recognition, reservists get 10 extra days paid leave annually.

In 2022 Mears was named a Top 25 Best Big Company to Work For, valuing engagement for a happier workforce. It was the only provider in the Social Mobility Employers Index Top 75, offering opportunities irrespective of background.