Jason Moriarty

Military Background and Education

I enlisted in the Australian Army in 1994, serving for nearly three decades across various operational, instructional, and leadership roles. Throughout my career, I gained significant experience in complex, high-pressure environments, culminating in senior leadership positions over the last decade. My service included four operational tours, most notably co-leading a mission to Iraq with a contingent of over 450 soldiers, where we delivered strategic outcomes under challenging conditions.

While serving, I also pursued academic qualifications that enhanced my professional capabilities. I earned a Degree in Organisational Leadership and a Master’s in Business, complementing my practical leadership experience.

These qualifications, alongside Defence-specific training, developed my ability to think critically and lead effectively, preparing me for the challenges of transitioning into a civilian career.

Educational Journey

My path to higher education was unconventional. Like many Defence members, I initially focused on professional development within the Army, delaying formal tertiary education. However, as I progressed in my career, I recognised the value of a robust academic foundation to complement my leadership skills and expand future opportunities.

In my mid-career, I decided to pursue a Master’s in Business with UNSW which I completed online with practical onsite intensives, while balancing the demands of full-time military service. The flexibility of part-time study allowed me to adapt my learning to the dynamic nature of my work, often completing assignments in austere environments.

Despite initial apprehensions about returning to formal education after years in service, I find myself enjoying the academic challenge of studying again, achieving good results in my courses. This milestone became a defining moment, reinforcing my commitment to lifelong learning.

My academic journey equipped me with a solid grounding in business principles, including economics, strategy, and organisational behaviour. These skills continue to be instrumental in my civilian career, particularly as I navigate complex projects and stakeholder relationships in the corporate world.

Transition to Civilian Career

Leaving the Army after nearly 30 years was a profound decision, driven by a desire for new challenges and to spend more time with my family. Transitioning to civilian life was both exciting and daunting, as I sought to translate decades of military leadership and operational expertise into a corporate context.

Initially, I worked as a consultant focusing on leadership, resilience, and performance, where I applied my military experiences to help organisations achieve their goals. This role was invaluable in bridging the gap between Defence and corporate environments, teaching me the importance of soft skills, adaptability, and effective communication.

A year later, I joined Thales Australia as a Senior Project Manager/ Product Line Manager, leveraging my Defence background to manage complex projects and foster collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Australian Defence Force. The role enabled me to apply both my military and academic knowledge to deliver outcomes in a high-stakes environment.

Personal Reflection

Transitioning from a structured military career to the dynamic civilian workforce required significant personal and professional adaptation including a growth mindset. While I brought a wealth of experience in leadership, teamwork, and resilience, I quickly realised the importance of enhancing my interpersonal skillset and navigating diverse workplace cultures to effectively communicate in the civilian world of work.

I continue to challenge myself to adapt and grow, particularly in areas such as stakeholder engagement and articulating the value of my experiences. The transition has also deepened my appreciation for the skills developed during my Army career, which remain integral to my success today.

Advice to Future Veterans

For those considering the transition from Defence, my advice is simple: recognise the value of your experiences and be prepared to articulate them.

While the civilian workforce may not always understand the nuances of military service, the leadership, discipline, and problem-solving abilities you’ve honed are highly transferable.

Invest in upskilling early which might include study through a recognised provider including universities or TAFEs.

Seek mentorship by approaching your networks and others who have made the transition journey to the civilian workforce and undertaking upskilling. External service organisations also have supports which include mentoring and employability support to work with. 

Approach the transition with the same determination you demonstrated in uniform. Remember, your military service is not only a foundation for your career but also a unique asset that sets you apart in any environment.