RMR Scotland celebrates employer bonds

RMR Scotland hosted the biennial Royal Marines Scotland Dinner on behalf of the Commandant General Royal Marines Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE RM (1SL), welcoming a distinguished audience, including valued employers, to Edinburgh Castle.

The 12 June event offered an opportunity to recognise and thank those whose support is vital to the Royal Marines, particularly employers who continue to back serving Marines, Reservists and Veterans. Their presence affirmed the strong partnership between the Corps and the organisations that enable its people to thrive both in and out of uniform.

Guest listening to one of the speeches.

Set within the Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle, the evening reflected the proud traditions of the Royal Marines. Guests were welcomed with the sound of bagpipes, and the Royal Marines Band Scotland’s Corps of Drums marked the formal opening of the dinner with the ceremonial “Mess Beatings”.

Throughout the evening, employers heard directly from serving and former Royal Marines about the ethos, and demands of military service. Gaining insights that highlighted the qualities that Marines, Reservists and Veterans bring to civilian workplaces: resilience, leadership, adaptability, and teamwork.

Guest of honour Kathryn Lindsay enjoying the musical performance.

Speeches from Major General Bruce CBE DSO, Governor of Edinburgh Castle, and Major General Forbes RM underscored the evolving role of the Corps in the UK’s future defence posture. Guest of honour Kathryn Lindsay, Chief Executive of Angus Council, spoke passionately about the enduring relationship between RM Condor and the local community, demonstrating how military and civilian partnerships enrich both sides.

Angus Council signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2018 and was awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award in 2020. In addition, Sharon Faulkner (the Council’s Head of HR, IT and Organisational Development) chair’s Highland RFCA’s Highland Gold Network.

The aim of the group is to advocate for defence people, while sharing best practice and ideas, and to encourage and mentor Bronze and Silver employers to gain Gold status. It currently has 47 members.

Castle guests were treated to a diverse musical programme from the Royal Marines Band Scotland, featuring everything from traditional military pieces to Scottish favourites. The evening concluded with stirring renditions of Hearts of Oak and Life on the Ocean Wave.