To meet the exacting criteria, the RAF has invested heavily in raising the capability and impact of its people function by aligning its values with the CIPD Profession Map, building skills and knowledge, and ensuring individuals are recognised through CIPD professional membership. They are also investing in supporting staff with CIPD qualifications, training and ongoing professionalisation through the Experience Assessment. There has also been a focus on providing entry level career pathways as well as access to development through volunteering opportunities.

Air Commodore Adrian Burns, RAF Deputy Head of People Ops Profession, said: “The award of CIPD Development Partner status to the Royal Air Force is in equal parts humbling and inspiring.  It recognises the superb work of our people to enhance their skills while also acknowledging the Professionalism of the RAF in striving to deliver modern and inclusive HR practices. As an individual with CIPD and post grad HR qualifications, I have seen for myself how the CIPD resources and network of HR specialists has enabled the Royal Air Force to take the very best ideas in private sector HR and bring it into the RAF, and from there to the front line and operations.”

Adam Stanbury, CIPD Global Head of Employer Solutions, said: “We are delighted to recognise the RAF as our first military People Development Partner. The award demonstrates an exceptional degree of commitment to developing people professionals, ensuring they are the best they can be. Much work has taken place to achieve PDP status and we look forward to continuing our work with the RAF in the years to come.”