Ex-military serviceman Aaron Barnes has swapped the frontline for the forecourt thanks to a careers programme between the RAF and Jardine Motors.

The two organisations have teamed up to offer an employment pathway for military personnel who, having left the services, are keen to offer their unique and transferrable skills to UK employers.

Barnes (pictured) is one of the first people to benefit from a partnership that is based on the RAF’s ‘Careers Transition Programme’ and has joined Jardine Motors Group’s brand new Audi dealership in Oldham, in the newly-created position of handover specialist.

With experience of completing tours of duty in both Iraq and Afghanistan carrying out a number of positions including aviation specialist, arming landing point commander and physical training instructor, Barnes is now applying skills to ensure handovers are a pleasurable and well-planned experience.

Barnes said: “I am confident that the many skills learnt in my ten years spent in the military are totally transferrable to the private sector, and I’m grateful that the partnership between the forces and Jardine Motors Group has created this very exciting opportunity for me.”

As part of Jardine’s commitment to ex-servicemen, it will provide the support; training and coaching required to help him successfully move into his new role.

Jardine Motors Group’s HR director Clare Martin said: “We are constantly looking to enhance our employee profile and attract stars like Aaron who have brilliant transferrable skills that can aid our ambitious growth plans.

“His positive attitude shone through at the interview stage and with the support that Jardine Motors Group will provide, I am highly confident he will go on to make a great contribution in his role and carve out a long and rewarding career with us.

"I look forward to following Aaron’s progress in the months ahead.”