British multinational company Serco has been awarded the Armed Forces Recruitment Service contract by the U.K. Ministry of Defence. The contract aims to create a comprehensive enlistment system for the nation’s armed forces, benefitting the Royal Navy, the British Army, the Royal Air Force and Strategic Command.
The new service will use Serco’s expertise, experience and a network of partners to guide recruits from the initial assessment to onboarding and training.
The Serco team has a strong background in recruitment and includes several key partners such as global workforce solutions provider Adecco, talent management digital solutions firm Akkodis, and vocational education and training company MPCT. They will also oversee all Armed Forces Career Offices across the country.
The contract has a performance period of seven years, with three one-year options. Serco expects to complete a mobilization period lasting up to two years, with the new service commencing in early 2027.
Mark Irwin, CEO of Serco Group, emphasized how the new contract continues the company’s long-standing support for the Ministry of Defence in various missions.
“We fully recognize the critical importance of recruiting and retaining the right number of well-trained personnel willing to serve and defend their country,” he said. “Along with our partners, we have invested in the development of this solution since the procurement for AFRS was launched in 2021 and we are fully committed to ongoing collaboration with the MoD to ensure we adapt to current and emerging needs.”
Several lawmakers have urged the national government to address military recruitment challenges. In February 2024, a report released by the House of Commons highlighted various difficulties faced by the U.K. armed forces, calling for an immediate response to enhance the nation’s capacity to engage in high-intensity conflicts.