With DSEI 2025 just around the corner (9–12 September at ExCeL London), the UK’s leading defence and security exhibition is set to bring together over 1,600 exhibitors and 45,000 attendees from across the globe.
For SMEs, service leavers, and organisations navigating the defence sector, understanding the current trends in talent, technology, and recruitment is essential.
Jonathan Lee Recruitment will be at the show, sharing insight on SME defence opportunities, meeting existing and targeted future clients, and exploring further on the market challenge for attracting and retaining specialist talent. You can also explore our Defence Recruitment Services for broader context on how the sector is evolving.
Securing Advantage: SMEs in Defence
Agile procurement and resilient supply chains are becoming increasingly important for defence organisations. SMEs looking to work in defence need a clear understanding of procurement processes and compliance requirements.
Our guide How SMEs Can Win Defence Contracts explains:
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How to navigate defence procurement
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Ways to meet contract and compliance standards
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Building relationships with prime contractors
Attendees can benefit from exploring these strategies to understand how SME defence opportunities are evolving.
Driving Advantage: Technology & Security Clearance
Technology is a key driver in modern defence. From AI and autonomous systems to cybersecurity and drones?UAV’s, success depends on both innovative tools and the talent capable of operating them safely.
Our post Security Clearance in Defence: What You Need to Know provides an overview of:
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Clearance types and eligibility
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Process timelines
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Implications for recruitment and career planning
This is particularly useful for candidates exploring service leaver careers in defence, as well as organisations planning for sensitive projects.
Maintaining Advantage: Talent for the Future
A highly skilled workforce underpins operational effectiveness. Whether it’s service leavers transitioning to civilian careers or SMEs expanding recruitment in response to increased defence investment, understanding the talent landscape is key.
Relevant insights:
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Service Leavers & Civilian Careers – guidance for veterans navigating career transitions.
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How the UK’s Increased Defence Investment Will Boost SME Recruitment – trends in SME recruitment and workforce planning.
These insights help organisations and candidates plan for the future of defence recruitment in the UK.
Learning from Defence Case Studies
Real-world examples show how recruitment strategies translate into success:
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CES Advanced Armour – sourcing technical and engineering talent for advanced armour solutions.
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NP Aerospace – supporting specialist aerospace manufacturing recruitment.
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RBSL – helping a defence technology leader scale efficiently.
These examples highlight how defence recruitment specialists UK are adapting to sector demands, and the practical impact of recruitment strategies on organisations of different sizes.
Meeting the Team at DSEI 2025
For anyone attending DSEI 2025, Jason Cole, Matthew Heath, and Matt Johnson will be present to discuss talent trends, sector insights, and recruitment strategies.
📞 You can connect with them by calling +44 (0)1384 397555 or emailing website@jonlee.co.uk
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