London, UK – February 27, 2025 – NTT DATA UK&I, a global digital business and IT services leader, has today announced its signing of the Armed Forces Covenant, building on and formalising its commitment to supporting veterans, reservists, and military families. The Covenant is a promise that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, along with their families, are treated fairly in the communities, economy, and society they serve with their lives. As an organisation, our commitment to the Covenant also helps NTT DATA to recognise the valuable attributes the Armed Forces bring to the workplace. This milestone underscores NTT DATA’s dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace, and highlights the company’s ongoing efforts to improve public safety and defence capabilities in the UK.
The UK has a veteran population of approximately 2.4 million, alongside tens of thousands of active reservists. However, according to a report from the House of Commons in August 2024, many veterans face employment challenges and difficulties transitioning to civilian roles.[1] By pledging its support, NTT DATA aims to address these challenges by providing flexibility around military commitments, offering targeted training, and delivering a supportive workplace culture that helps employees to overcome any specific challenges they may face.
The company is also launching its “Friends of the Armed Forces Network,” a dedicated internal group designed to strengthen community ties, promote the skills of ex-service personnel, and further integrate reservists into the organisation.
“Veterans and reservists bring exceptional skills, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership, that enrich our culture and drive innovation and operational excellence,” said Stijn Nauwelaerts, Chief People Officer of NTT DATA, Inc. “Supporting the Armed Forces community is a vital part of our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive workforce. We’re proud to sign the Armed Forces Covenant, reinforcing our dedication to creating flexible and supportive career opportunities for service personnel, while also ensuring that we can continue to deliver the highest level of expertise to our clients in the public safety and defence sectors.”
Major General Nicholas Cowley OBE, General Officer Commanding Army Individual Training Command and Commandant of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, said: “When an organisation commits to signing the Armed Forces Covenant it speaks volumes about the value they attach to the skills, experience and character that members of the Armed Forces community can bring to their organisation. At a time when the security landscape is changing rapidly with express advances in military technologies such as drones and cyber warfare – it’s more important than ever to foster interchange and partnerships between the Armed Forces and our technology businesses. I am excited by the attitude of innovation shown by NTT Data UK&I and look forward to hearing more about further support initiatives as well.”
This initiative reinforces NTT DATA’s position as a trusted partner in the defence and public safety sectors. With a track record of delivering innovative technology solutions, including recent success with the Crown Prosecution Service and the Intelligent safeguarding initiative in conjunction with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), Ministry of Justice, Police Digital Service and Microsoft, the company is well positioned to address the evolving challenges faced by defence organisations.
Following the signing, NTT DATA will introduce new initiatives, including an internal Armed Forces Network, adapted recruitment processes that recognise military skills and qualifications, and expanded training and flexibility for reservists, spouses, and partners of service personnel. The company also plans to support cadet organisations, commemorate key national events such as Armed Forces Day and Remembrance Day, and actively engage in fundraising and volunteering efforts for Armed Forces charities. These steps align with the Covenant’s principles and allow NTT DATA both to deepen collaborations within the defence sector, and to strengthen ties to military-focused charities and community organisations, aligning corporate responsibility efforts with the needs of the Armed Forces community.
Clare Stephens, Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at NTT DATA UK&I, commented: “The Armed Forces Covenant aligns perfectly with NTT DATA's broader diversity, equity and inclusion strategy in the UK&I. Our Friends of Armed Forces Network directly strengthens our ongoing initiatives to cultivate a truly inclusive environment at NTT DATA UK&I, ensuring equitable opportunities for all, including veterans and their families. Now more than ever it’s crucial for responsible employers to re-state their commitment to inclusion, and signing the Covenant is one way we are ensuring that our efforts drive meaningful change within NTT DATA and the wider community.”
Mike Jones, co-executive sponsor of the Armed Forces Friends Network, and Vice President & Chief Partner Officer at NTT DATA UK&I, said: “Having served in the Armed Forces myself, I know first-hand the tremendous value that former and serving military personnel bring to a company such as NTT DATA. By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, we’re not only reinforcing our commitment to their success, but also building a stronger foundation for our entire organisation. The Friends of the Armed Forces Network, along with the changes we’re making to our policies, will help ensure that our people have the flexibility and support they need to thrive.”