- Behind the Wire
25.June.2025
Today, we mark Reserves Day, a national moment to recognise the often-unseen contribution of the UK’s 30,000+ reservists. Held during Armed Forces Week, this day celebrates the individuals who balance civilian careers with a commitment to serve, train, and deploy alongside regular military forces.
At MilUX, we’re proud to count two reservists among our team. Matt Odell, our CEO, serves in the Army Reserves, while Isabella Marriott brings her expertise and energy to the Royal Naval Reserve. Both exemplify the unique perspective reservists offer, combining operational insight with civilian innovation to drive forward Defence outcomes.
Matt has just returned to work after spending 2 weeks on an Annual Deployment Exercise with the University of London Officers’ Training Corps (ULOTC). Matt is Officer Commanding A Company, responsible for delivering the first-year training programme.
“Serving as Officer Commanding A Company at the University of London Officers’ Training Corps continues to be one of the most rewarding roles I’ve held. Watching Officer Cadets grow through their first year of training—building confidence, leadership, and resilience—is a privilege.
Over the past fortnight on our Annual Deployment Exercise, I’ve seen cadets take major strides forward. From learning to shoot for the first time, to successfully navigating a demanding patrol exercise, and pushing their limits through adventurous training—it’s been a transformative experience for them.
In just a few weeks, we’ll begin recruiting our next intake of 180 students. I look forward to welcoming the next generation of cadets into the ULOTC.
Balancing my responsibilities as an Army Reserve Officer enables me to continue sharpening my own leadership and decision-making skills—something I bring into every part of my professional life.”
Isabella leads Employer Support activities for the Maritime Reserves:
“It is incredibly rewarding to contribute to the Maritime Reserves while bringing a fresh perspective from the commercial sector. Ive had the opportunity to share my business analysis experience and commercial expertise with the HQ , which has been well received and genuinely impactful. The role has also allowed me to continue developing my leadership skills in a unique environment that challenges and stretch you in the right ways. But none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of both my family and my employer, their understanding and encouragement are what make this level of commitment achievable”.
Reservists play a critical role in the UK’s national defence posture, providing strategic depth, specialist expertise, and deployable capability across all domains. That same adaptability, resilience and leadership translate into immense value for organisations like ours. It informs how we design services, shape strategy, and connect with the real-world challenges faced by military personnel.
As a Silver Award holder under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, MilUX actively supports employees who serve. From flexible working arrangements to protected training time, we’re proud to uphold our pledge under the Armed Forces Covenant, ensuring reservists aren’t just accommodated, but enabled to thrive.
Reserves Day is a reminder of the powerful link between civilian life and military readiness. At MilUX, we see that connection every day in how our reservist colleagues lead, think, and deliver. Their service strengthens not only UK Defence but also the team around them.
This Reserves Day, we extend our thanks to Matt, Isabella, and all reservists across the UK. Your commitment, versatility, and quiet professionalism do not go unnoticed, and they continue to inspire the work we do in support of Defence every day.
