Responding to research showing that professional qualifications have a positive impact on long term career success*, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is giving its personnel the opportunity to gain nationally-recognised management qualifications. Following a successful six-month pilot scheme, the MoD has signed a two-year partnership with the Chartered Management Institute to equip individuals across the armed service with, transferable, lifelong career skills.
According to the research, the majority or individuals and organisations believe qualifications will grow in importance over the next five years. 95 per cent said that having a general management qualification would increase their ëportabilityí should they wish to change career path and most said it would increase their chances of employment and promotion.
The MoDís new contract with the Institute marks a successful and long-standing relationship between the Institute and the armed forces. It follows a pilot programme where the Instituteís Executive Diploma in Management and Executive Diploma in Strategic Management were trialled as part of the MoDís own training and development programme.
Both of the Instituteís qualifications will equip participants with skills in management and leadership for their current role and civilian occupations. The Executive Diploma in Management develops core skills in managing performance, resources and operations. Students also get the option of learning how to manage information systems, implement recruitment plans and develop specific projects.
The Executive Diploma in Strategic Management takes this learning to the next level, offering candidates the opportunity to develop skills in strategic positioning, planning and implementation. Both qualifications meet National Occupational Standards (NOS) and are therefore recognised across non-military organisations.
ìThe message coming from the Instituteís research is clear. Individuals want skills that will benefit them throughout their career, whether they get promoted within the armed services or decide to take on another profession,î says Jo Causon, director of marketing and corporate affairs for the Chartered Management Institute.
ìIn the current skills crisis, the MoD is not only showing a commitment to its own personnel, but the wider UK economy. Organisations across all sectors should follow its example and equip individuals with the skills needed to drive UK competitiveness.î
*Taken from The Value of Qualifications published by the Chartered Management Institute, September 2007
MoD responds to report finding that individuals want transferable skills
.
