Armed Forces Day 2024

Highlighting Armed Forces Day, June 29th, Hopkins Homes stands out for its enduring support of the Armed Forces community.

The regional housebuilder actively seeks top-tier talent, valuing individuals who exemplify leadership, excellence, and the ability to inspire. These traits are often intrinsic to service personnel, especially those who are transitioning to civilian careers. Recognising this exceptional pool of talent, Hopkins Homes has collaborated with the Ministry of Defence Career Transition Partnership, tapping into the vast potential of military professionals.

Hopkins Homes offers comprehensive development pathways that span various disciplines including Site Management, Engineering, Commercial, and Technical teams. The programme has yielded remarkable successes, exemplified by individuals like Melvyn Gilmour, who joined the business through the Armed Forces intake in 2019.

The veteran’s journey from trainee Assistant Site Manager to managing his own £50 million project highlights the effectiveness of Hopkins Homes’ commitment to nurturing talent.

A former Royal Marine Commando, Melvyn’s experience reflects a smooth transition from the military to a rewarding career in construction management. He confirms that the development pathway is a great way to use military training and experiences, while also building teamwork and leadership skills.

Melvyn explained, “My career at Hopkins Homes has proved to be quite a natural move from the military and the Hopkins Homes development pathway provided the ideal first step into construction management. When I left the military, I knew I wanted to build a new career in which I could exploit my training and experiences. My experience with the armed forces also proved that I enjoyed working with people as part of a team and as a leader”.

“Leading the team at Barsham Vale in Beccles is incredibly rewarding. I’m constantly developing my skills and it’s a privilege to be part of such a talented team. Witnessing our customers’ joy when they take ownership of their new home gives me huge satisfaction.”

Two men in hi vis and hard hats

Shane Vinyard, Group Head of Quality Assurance & Training for Hopkins Homes, who also shares a military background, said, “Our entry pathways offer the ideal opportunity to start a career in new homes construction management.  I am delighted that we will be offering a further intake later this year.”

“We are committed to attracting individuals who embody leadership, excellence, and the ability to inspire others. These qualities are often ingrained in military personnel transitioning into civilian careers.”

As a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, Hopkins Homes has been demonstrating its support for defence personnel since 2019.  The company’s achievements include attaining the prestigious Silver Award in the Employer Recognition Scheme, highlighting its dedication to empowering service members, reservists, veterans, and their families.

By leveraging the strengths of military personnel, the company is setting a benchmark for industry-wide support and inclusion of the Armed Forces community.

Image of our latest Armed Forces work experience placement (left), with Melvyn Gilmour, Site Manager (right)