Meet Ryan McNally: Store Manager and Former Armed Forces Member

Hi Ryan, tell us about your experience with the Armed Forces.

"I joined the Army straight from school as it had been an ambition from a young age. At age 16, I joined the Junior Leaders Regiment RAC in Bovington, Dorset, where I completed my basic training for 6 months.

After that I rebadged to the newly formed Royal Logistics Corp and specialised in supply chain.

I served in the UK mainly in Shropshire and Colchester, I did however get to travel the world on operations and exercises."

Why did you originally decide to join M&S?

"I’ve now been with M&S for nearly 25 years. Initially, I joined as a part-time, seasonal worker after I relocated back home to the North East.

The brand was what brought me here and the knowledge that I needed support in readjusting to civilian life as an ex-soldier. Despite experiencing some very dark days personally, I made some exceptional connections.

I am now the Store Manager, leading a team and using all the experience I gained in the military and from my time at M&S."

Tell us more about the M&S Armed Forces Network.

"The network is a safe place where like-minded colleagues can go and support each other. As a Store Manager, I felt I needed to support colleagues from across the business who were or have been going through similar experiences to readjusting as I had. I feel totally supported to offer my opinions to the network regarding any issues so that we can work together to resolve them. I also love the fact that our network represents the thoughts of so many different people so we can best support colleagues in different ways."

What would you say to a veteran who is considering joining M&S?

"Get on the bus, the ride is great!

No two days are the same, very much like being in the military. And the connections you build with colleagues and our customers is what makes M&S special. It really is that simple."

However you identify and regardless of your background, our colleague support networks are open and welcoming to all. Learn more here.