The Director of Edinburgh Napier University’s Centre for Military Research, Education and Public Engagement has been recognised for her work championing veterans in their careers.
Professor Gerri Matthews-Smith was named Advocate of the Year at the fifth annual Scottish edition of the Ex-Forces in Business Awards.
Described as the world’s largest celebration of veterans in second careers, the accolades aim to showcase the diverse talents of the armed forces community to employers. The winners were announced during a ceremony presented by broadcaster and author Sally Magnusson in Glasgow on Thursday 14 March.
During her time with ENU, Professor Matthews-Smith has built a strong record of collaborative research involving the armed forces, while working with organisations devoted to military transition, education, and wellbeing.
As an Associate Research Professor with The Business School at ENU, she was involved in the launch a report looking into the transition from the military to civilian life last summer – the first analysis of its kind.
Reacting to the win, Gerri said: “I was delighted to receive this prestigious award, which I accept on behalf of all the team at the Centre for Military Research, Education and Public Engagement, as well as all our partners in the NHS and third sector who make this work possible.
“Our veterans are the reason we walk freely on the street, and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude, a smooth transition, and a safe and comfortable retirement.”
Lt Cdr Susie Hamilton, Scottish Veterans Commissioner, said: "People who serve in the Armed Forces gain world-class skills and values which are highly transferable into every sector. Yet while the business case in hiring veterans is strong, it’s not always well understood.
“I applaud the work of the Ex-Forces in Business Awards in demonstrating this business case in the best way possible: by showcasing the business achievements of this tremendous talent pool as well as the Forces Friendly companies across Scotland which actively seek to employ from the Armed Forces community.”
Top picture: Gerri Matthews-Smith with Lt Cdr Susie Hamilton
Below: ENU’s team at the Scottish Ex-Forces in Business Awards