From the Army to a Career in Finance: One Veteran Shares His Story

Most kids learn about volcanoes through books or perhaps in science class while experimenting with baking soda and vinegar. But for Osric Richards, this natural phenomenon had an outside impact on his childhood—and life.

“I’m originally from the island of Montserrat in the West Indies, a place known for its serene beauty, but also for the volatility of its active volcanoes,” he says. “At the age of 12, I embarked on a life-altering journey, leaving home to settle in the United Kingdom, driven by the necessity to escape the looming volcanic threat.”

Richards still resides in the U.K., where he is an associate at BlackRock’s Edinburgh office working on the Global Investment Operations Services (GIOS) team. But before he pursued a career in finance, he spent almost a decade serving in the British Army.

“The opportunity to traverse the globe and dedicate myself to the service of my country was a selling point for me,” Richards says. “From mastering telecommunication systems to taking the lead of combat teams in Afghanistan, my responsibilities were ever evolving.”

Richards has had a similarly varied experience at BlackRock, whose Veteran & Elite Athlete Program is dedicated to helping veterans learn new skills and transition to the civilian workforce through a six-month paid internship.

“My career journey at BlackRock has been marked by continuous growth and diversified responsibilities,” says Richards, who began as a member of the Global Client Services team before shifting to a role focused on regulatory affairs and compliance. In his current position, he “fosters collaboration and operational excellence across investment and client-facing teams.”

Here, Richards shares how the program set him up for success, why BlackRock’s community of veterans is integral to his sense of belonging at work, and how being a father has changed him.

Leaving the army was undoubtedly a significant and challenging decision, given my longstanding commitment to it from a young age. Soldiers develop a unique blend of adaptability and acute risk awareness. This led me to explore career avenues that aligned with the transferable skills I had honed during my military service.

During my transition to the civilian workforce, I actively engaged in networking events and information sessions. There is a prevailing sentiment that soldiers possess highly valuable transferable skills, and I felt I possessed the requisite skills for a successful career in finance and asset management. This proved accurate as my proficiency in risk management, a skill honed during deployments, was a natural fit in this industry.

I discovered the Veteran & Elite Athlete Program through the Army Career Transition Partnership. BlackRock organized an event at its London office to provide more comprehensive insight into the program, which allowed me to gain a deeper view into the firm and engage with fellow veterans who had successfully transitioned into finance.

The program spans six months, with placements in both London and Edinburgh. What particularly excited me about this paid internship is the tailored team placement, ensuring that individuals are matched with roles that best suit their skills and backgrounds. The overarching aim of this internship is to empower veterans as they enter the financial industry, providing a strong support system of fellow veterans.

Engaging in conversations with veterans who had previously worked in finance, especially at BlackRock, was a compelling factor in my decision. Their experiences and the assurance of ongoing support really solidified the opportunity for me.

My experience was initially daunting as it represented a significant departure from my familiar military background. I grappled with apprehensions, including the fear of imposter syndrome. But the program proved to be an incredible journey that helped me overcome these fears and develop valuable skills.

During my internship, I was assigned to the Client Onboarding team, a role that required close collaboration with various stakeholders within the organization. This role involved ensuring the efficient and risk-controlled implementation of regulatory and operational aspects related to new portfolio launches and portfolio lifecycle activities.

One of the challenges I faced was adapting to a new set of terminologies and concepts, which underlined the importance of the transferable skills I had acquired. I had to swiftly acclimate to this environment to effectively contribute to the projects.

Throughout my time in the program, I received unwavering support. The buddy system, where a fellow veteran provided guidance and mentorship, was invaluable. The “lunch and learn” sessions enriched my understanding of the business, and I had access to mentorship opportunities through the various employee-led networks within BlackRock. My team was also exceptionally supportive in nurturing my professional growth and development.

First and foremost, I received an abundance of support during my time in the program. The mentorship, guidance, and resources provided were invaluable in helping me transition smoothly into the company. This level of support made me feel like a valued member of the team from day one, and I knew I would continue to have access to these resources as a full-time employee.

The people and culture at BlackRock overall were exceptional. I felt a strong sense of camaraderie among my colleagues, and the collaborative atmosphere was truly inspiring. The emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and personal growth was evident throughout the organization.

The role I was ultimately offered aligned seamlessly with my transferable skills and career goals. BlackRock recognized my potential and provided an opportunity that allowed me to leverage my strengths while also offering room for professional development and growth. Joining BlackRock full time was a decision I made with confidence.

VET is dedicated to delivering value to BlackRock, its employees, and the veteran community through talent and engagement initiatives. The committee’s goals include supporting veterans in their career growth, fostering inclusivity, organizing engagement programs, and participating in charitable activities. As a veteran at BlackRock, VET has profoundly impacted my experience. It has provided a vital support network, facilitated professional development, and enabled me to connect with like-minded individuals. Through its charitable activities, VET has also made a significant difference in the lives of many veterans, showcasing its commitment to giving back to the community.

What has surprised me the most is the profound impact parenthood has on one’s perspective and priorities. It’s astonishing how your focus shifts from personal pursuits to your child’s well-being and future. The level of love, responsibility, and joy that parenthood brings is beyond what I could have imagined.

Support for working parents from companies like BlackRock plays a pivotal role. Flexibility in work arrangements allows me to balance my professional responsibilities with family commitments. This kind of support not only enhances work-life balance, but also contributes to the well-being and productivity of employees.

One specific benefit at BlackRock that has greatly supported our family is the employee-led Families & Allies at BlackRock (FAB) network. FAB provides a platform for employees to share experiences, resources, and guidance on balancing work and family life. It facilitates connections with colleagues facing similar challenges, fostering a supportive community that helps working parents navigate the complexities of raising a family while excelling in their careers.

Football holds a special place in my heart, and I’m an avid fan. I not only watch matches, but also actively participate by playing regularly on weekends.

Hiking and camping are also cherished activities for me. Exploring the great outdoors, conquering challenging trails, and immersing myself in the beauty of nature is a source of both relaxation and adventure.

Cooking is another passion I indulge in. Preparing delicious meals and experimenting with different cuisines is a creative outlet that I find rewarding.