30.06.2021, 00:21
Ex-Forces Business Award
Holly Ferneyhough, business support manager with Atalian Servest in the United Kingdom, has been named “Rising Star of the Year” at the 2021 Ex-Forces Business Awards.
One of ten candidates shortlisted for the ‘Rising Star’ award category, Ferneyhough was selected for achieving rapid post-military career progression whilst demonstrating unrivalled leadership skills and commitment to business results.
Ferneyhough served in the Army Air Corps for eight years as a Groundcrew Specialist. During this time, she safely completed two operational tours of Afghanistan and travelled on several expeditions worldwide. Joining Atalian Servest in 2016, she has progressed from the position of executive assistant to business support manager, and is responsible for research, data accuracy and spearheading business growth.
The judges were impressed by the manner in which Ferneyhough initially secured her executive assistant role to get a ‘foot-in-the-door’ prior to her promotion to a managerial position on the back of proving her worth. She was also commended for aligning herself with a company that mirrors her growth values, and a mindset that believes anything is possible.
Ben Rossi, founder of the Ex-Forces in Business Awards, commented: “The judges noted that Holly clearly not only adds value to everything she does but also always adds something extra. In an incredibly high field of Rising Stars, Holly pipped victory for the breadth of her impact and the value she offers.”
Ferneyhough added: “It feels very surreal to have won the Rising Star of the Year Award. I wouldn’t have imagined when I left the Army in 2015 that I would win an award for my move to a commercial career. Working for a global organisation that supports ex-military personnel has been instrumental in my growth and success.
“While I am incredibly proud of all my achievements to date, the award has shown me that anything is possible. I want to continue to make the most of every opportunity and to progress even further.”
Matt Chapman, Atalian Servest Chief Marketing and Development Officer who also serves as Ferneyhough’s line manager, comments: “We have always recognised the tremendous value that the Armed Forces community brings to our business.
“Holly has an incredible success story to celebrate. She has really maximised the opportunities that have been available to her and has shaped her own platform for growth.
“She’s made a significant contribution to Atalian Servest in managing data, developing thought leaders and championed our D&I platform. This will continue to positively impact the lives and careers of employees from management to front line security, cleaning, catering and engineering colleagues. We are proud to have Holly as part of our team.”
The Ex-Forces in Business Awards bill themselves as the world’s largest celebration of ex-military personnel in second careers, and recognise the value veterans bring to businesses as well as employers who support the transition of servicemen and women to civilian life.
