Sponsored Reservist Manager - AirTanker Services Limited : Job Details

We’re actively exploring the potential for this role to become a Sponsored Reservist (SR) position. If confirmed, it would offer you a unique dual commitment—combining a civilian role with continued service. You’ll need to be both willing and eligible to take on this rewarding responsibility. Additional financial benefits would apply once SR status is achieved and maintained, with full details available during the recruitment process.

Serve with Purpose. Lead with Impact.

Are you a current or former member of the RAF or UK Armed Forces looking for a role that keeps you connected to service, purpose, and operational excellence? At AirTanker, we’re offering a unique opportunity to do just that—as our Sponsored Reservist Manager.

This is a rare dual-role opportunity: you’ll play a key role in supporting the operational readiness and wellbeing of our Sponsored Reservists (SRs), while also being prepared and eligible to obtain SR status yourself. It’s a chance to continue serving your country—while building a fulfilling career in a forward-thinking, mission-driven organisation.

Why AirTanker?

AirTanker is a vital part of the UK’s defence capability, delivering air-to-air refuelling and air transport services to the RAF and MOD. We operate at the intersection of military precision and commercial innovation. As SR Manager, you’ll help ensure our reservists are ready, supported, and integrated—so they can deliver when it matters most.

• Dual Role Potential: A position of responsibility with the expectation that you are willing and capable of obtaining Sponsored Reservist status.
• Strategic Collaboration: Work closely with the Head of Strategic Workforce Planning to shape SR requirements and ensure alignment with operational needs.
• Mission-Critical Impact: You’ll be supporting a highly skilled, deployable workforce that plays a direct role in delivering the UK’s air mobility and refuelling capability. These are not just employees—they are operational enablers essential to national defence.
• People-Centric Focus: Champion wellbeing, training, and support for a unique and valued workforce.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Including private medical insurance, bonus scheme, EV scheme, contributory pension, and more.
• Adventure & Belonging: Battlefield tours, adventure training, and family fun days.

• Support the delivery of SR recruitment and onboarding in partnership with Talent Acquisition.
• Collaborate with the Head of Strategic Workforce Planning to define SR requirements and contribute to resource planning.
• Act as the key liaison between AirTanker, RAF Cranwell, RPMC, and other stakeholders.
• Deliver workshops and briefings on SR policy, cultural awareness, and best practices.
• Monitor SR wellbeing, conduct harmony reviews, and support mental and physical health initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with MOD regulations and Joint Service Publications (JSPs).
• Track training compliance and readiness in collaboration with Training and Capability teams.
• Chair the SR Action Group and lead initiatives to improve SR experience and performance.
• Provide expert advice on reservist-related policies, including leave, pay, benefits, and mobilisation.

• Current or recent experience serving in the RAF or UK Armed Forces (Army, Navy), either as a regular or reservist.
• CIPD Level 5 or equivalent HR/people management experience.
• An understanding of Reserve Forces employment protections, MOD policy, and ideally civilian employment law.
• Working knowledge of MOD systems and processes, with the ability to ensure compliance with MOD regulations and Joint Service Publications (JSPs).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A proactive, organised, and empathetic approach to supporting people and operations.
• Willingness and eligibility to obtain Sponsored Reservist status. Further information on SRs can be found on our careers website. 

Ready to make a meaningful impact and serve with purpose and pride?

Join AirTanker and help shape the future of defence support—on both sides of the wire.