About Connect Through Service

From the Frontline to the Forefront of Business

Born in Northern Ireland, now serving the entire UK, Connect Through Service (CTS) is the premier partner for integrating the exceptional talent of service leavers from the military and blue light sectors into the commercial world. We connect ambitious businesses with a unique pool of proven leaders, strategic thinkers, and innovators. Think of us as your forward operating base for a successful second career.

The transition from a life in uniform—be it in the armed forces or our emergency services—to 'civvy street' is a significant one. Service leavers possess a wealth of transferable skills honed under immense pressure. Whether you've commanded a platoon or managed a critical incident, you've demonstrated advanced leadership, operational excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the mission. Yet, translating that experience into the language of business can be a challenge.

Connect Through Service was founded to bridge that exact gap. As service leavers who have walked this path ourselves, we established a dedicated pathway to connect this high-calibre talent with forward-thinking businesses. Our journey began with a mission to fuel the growth of Northern Ireland by leveraging the incredible skills of its veterans and blue light personnel.

While our roots are firmly planted in Northern Ireland, our network and impact have grown. We now facilitate these vital connections across the UK, driven by the universal truth that the strategic mindset developed in service is a powerful asset in any industry.

More Than a Handshake, It's a Strategic Alliance

Our core purpose is to serve as the trusted bridge between the expertise forged in service and commercial opportunities. We go beyond standard recruitment to build genuine partnerships that allow businesses to harness the diverse skills of service leavers to drive innovation and achieve their goals. For our candidates, we provide the guidance, support, and connections needed to excel in their second careers or as trailblazing entrepreneurs. We're not just about finding you a job; we're about helping you launch your next mission.

One Community, Unrivalled Support

By uniting our community of service leavers from both military and blue light backgrounds, we've created a powerful collective. This allows us to secure unparalleled benefits from our business partners—a network of companies genuinely thrilled to support those who have served and their families. Under the CTS roof, you'll find more than just job listings. You'll discover a community ready to have your six.

We are the bridge that connects you to meaningful opportunities, expert guidance, and the unwavering support you need not just to find a second career, but to thrive in it. Whether you're aiming to climb the corporate ladder or become a trailblazing entrepreneur, your next chapter starts here. Welcome to Connect Through Service.

We've Stood Where You Stand - The CTS Team

Graham Given

I grew up in Antrim, Northern Ireland and am very proud of the positive influence of my parents who both served within the emergency services (Blue lights). They both did a job that they loved and saw reward in doing. Following in their footsteps I have spent most of his working career in either the Blue Lights or military service.

Having joined the Territorial Army when I left school at the age of 18, as a young Royal Engineer ‘Sapper’, I was able to learn new skills and find exciting challenges, which were a welcome distraction to my studies at Queen’s University Belfast.

Having gained a Territorial Army commission as an undergraduate I spent most of my time as a postgraduate at University of Ulster trying to work out whether to enter the commercial world or follow my passion. Opting for the latter I joined the regular Army and completed the yearlong officer commissioning course at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1996. Often pinching myself with the people I encountered along the way, the varied roles that were entrusted on me to do, or the many varied situations and locations I found yourself in, there was never a minute’s regret in following my passion and joining the Army.

After 12 exciting years in the Army, and many ‘airmiles later’ it was time to move on to a new career in policing for the next chapter. Joining the Police Service of Northern Ireland in 2007 led to another 10 years of exciting service in what is one of the most rewarding careers. Every ‘shift’ was different and brought its own challenges, whether it was helping people at their most vulnerable and in need of help or just trying to make a safer place to live. There was always a feeling that you were really making a difference – best 10 years!

Both the Army and the Police were great learning environments, for starting my own business – the next chapter. Leaving the police in 2018 I took an idea with a friend and started Cherton Secure to provide professional services to organisations seeking to manage and mitigate risk. One thing I have learnt in my short term in business is it’s not easy but there are great people out there who are only too willing to help and guide you. Every day is a challenge, and every day there will be knock backs, but it is a case of picking yourself up, dusting yourself down and getting on with it. Over the last few years we have built a company which now has customers globally who use the skills and knowledge of service leavers to solve their problems.

It is great to look back over the last 30 years, but it is more exciting to think about the new challenges and with CTS how I can help make a difference to those still serving or transitioning out of service.

Graham now lives in Belfast and is married to Emma, and they have 3 children.

Jason Gillard

Meet Jason Gillard, born in Salisbury in 1981. Jason's journey began with a remarkable 13-year tenure in the British Army's Royal Signals, achieving the rank of Acting Sergeant. Post his military service, he embarked on a challenging path, working in close protection roles in Afghanistan and Iraq, showcasing his dedication to service and security.

Transitioning from defence to community welfare, Jason spent a year with the PSNI as a custody detention officer, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to public safety. Not one to rest on his laurels, he ventured into the world of fitness, founding the award-winning Bootcamp Mercury Fitness NI, where his passion for physical well-being and leadership flourished.

Moreover, Jason's altruistic endeavours extend beyond fitness, as he initiated the Northern Ireland Veterans Awards, now a significant success, recognising the valor and contributions of veterans.

In his personal life, Jason finds joy in the simple pleasures: married to Cecily and blessed with four daughters, he cherishes family time. A sports enthusiast, Jason's love for rugby and dedication to training and running reflects his disciplined approach to life.

For the Service Leaver, are you ready to redeploy your expertise? We equip you with the network, intelligence, and support to command your second career. Your next objective starts now.

For the Business, don't just fill a role; recruit a mindset. In a world of uncertainty, you need proven operators who bring stability, drive, and an instinct for teamwork. We are your direct link to professionals engineered to lead, adapt, and execute under pressure. They don't just fit your culture; they strengthen it.

Your objective is clear. Join our network and engage with us today. Whether you're advancing your career or reinforcing your business, we are your strategic partner.

The Blue Lights Awards

It takes a rare calibre of person to answer the call when crisis hits. The Blue Light Awards are our tribute to them—a national celebration of the dedication, bravery, and unwavering service that defines our emergency and rescue community across the UK and Ireland.

We believe recognition belongs to everyone who wears the uniform and everyone who supports it. From the paramedics on the front line and the officers on the beat, to the call handlers who are the calm in the storm and the support staff who form the backbone of the operation. Our Blue Light Awards are designed to shine a light on the entire ecosystem of service.

Now Taking Nominations: Scotland 2025

The search is on for Scotland's finest. If you know an individual or team that has shown exceptional courage or commitment, this is your chance to put them in the spotlight and nominate them for the Blue Light Awards - Scotland.

The winners will be announced at a glamorous gala evening at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Glasgow, on Thursday, 30th October 2025. Join us for a night dedicated to honouring true heroes.

Click To Nominate a Blue Light Hero or Join Our Celebrations 🎉

Our Chosen Charity Causes for 2025

Blesma

The Limbless Veterans, is dedicated to assisting serving and ex-Service men and women who have suffered life-changing limb loss or the use of a limb, an eye or loss of sight in the honourable service of our country.