RAF background gave me a flying start in civvy street . . .
FLYING officer Kiri Chiakli was made redundant from the RAF after nine years.
‘I was due to start flying training to become a navigator when defence cuts were announced,’ says Kiri. ‘I was disappointed to leave.’
He decided to put the practical and communications skills he had gained in the RAF to good use and started his own business with a Revive! franchise, offering mobile vehicle repairs, in King’s Lynn, Norfolk.
The 31-year-old says: ‘I preferred hands-on tasks, which was a good foundation for starting a franchise. It’s a tried-and-tested business model that will only fail if you are not following the systems and guidance Revive! gives.’
Six years later, he runs two vans providing mobile repair services and has plans to expand.
He says: ‘I meet new people and enjoy helping others. I have built great customer relationships and like being my own boss and building a future for my family.’
Mark Llewellyn, Revive! managing director, says: ‘Former services personnel have the qualities we look for in a Revive! franchisee. They are well-organised, excellent communicators, ambitious and not afraid of hard work. We have a training programme and support team to ensure a smooth transition from service to civilian life.’ The franchise investment is £27,500.
Meanwhile, Sue Mark bought a Bright & Beautiful cleaning service franchise in Southampton after 22 years’ service in the Royal Navy as an engineer.
She says: ‘I have now built a team of 13 housekeepers. I liked the fact Bright & Beautiful had in place tried- and- tested systems, with support, guidance and training.
‘Many of the skills I gained in the Navy, such as organisation and the ability to deal with any situation calmly, have been transferable.’
Investment in Bright & Beautiful starts at around £25,000.