Seeking Financial Management Officer Roles After Military Retirement

I've recently retired from the military where I was a financial management officer. I'm exploring job opportunities in the civilian sector but unsure where to start. Any tips on how to transition smoothly into a similar role?

First, thank you for your military service! Transitioning to civilian life can be a change, but your service has provided you with many transferable skills. As a financial management officer, you have a strong background that can be advantageous in the civilian job market.

You might start your transition by identifying what you enjoyed about your military role, as that can help guide you to similar roles in the civilian sector. Financial Management Officers in the military typically handle budgeting, disbursements, auditing and financial advising. So, you might be interested in roles like Financial Analyst, Financial Advisor, or Budget Analyst.

Next, it’s important to translate your military experiences into civilian language on your resume and in interviews. Make sure to highlight leadership, problem-solving, and strategic planning skills, as these are valuable assets in many fields. ASTM International has resources that can help with translating military roles and skills for civilian jobs.

Networking is also key. Connect with fellow veterans who've transitioned into the civilian workforce through veteran groups or LinkedIn. They may have advice or connections that can be invaluable. Also, don't forget to take advantage of job fairs dedicated to veterans. Many companies value the discipline and leadership skills that veterans bring to the table, and some even have programs specifically focused on hiring vets.

Lastly, you can also consider furthering your education or acquiring new credentials that could underline your expertise in the civilian sector. Depending on the specific role you are targeting, a certification or further studies might be beneficial.

Remember, transitioning takes time, so don't be disheartened if things don't go quickly or exactly as planned. Good luck in your transition, and thank you again for your service!