A Kendal-based author and former combat leader has been nominated as a finalist in one of the UK’s most diverse and inclusive awards.
Neil Jurd, who served in the Army for 25 years before establishing his own leadership consultancy firm, has been announced as a finalist in the education, training and development category of this year’s Soldiering On awards.
The awards recognise the dedication of those who have served their country and who have gone on support their community through vocational education, training or skills development.
Neil was nominated for his work as director of ACF Initial Officer Training where he has transformed the course, focusing on leadership based on connection and inclusion and the importance of personality over rank of position in leading others.
He said: “Helping young people develop their leadership skills and guiding them in finding the confidence they need to lead a team has become a strong passion of mine.
“Currently I work with headteachers and senior leaders in the world of education to deal with the difficult task of reshaping and reinvigorating the education sector after what has been an incredibly difficult year for them and our young people.
“To even be considered as a finalist for this award is an honour and a privilege. I am thankful to the armed forces community. It’s important we celebrate and share each other’s achievements no matter how small or big they may be.”
As an officer in the British Army Neil served in Yemen, Bosnia and Sierra Leone as well as teaching leadership at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He is the author of The Leadership Book – A-Step-By-Step Guide To Excellent Leadership, which offers a creative and easy approach to leadership and team development.
