Government Investment: A Game-Changer for SMEs
The UK Government is increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with new initiatives to help SMEs enter and grow within the defence supply chain. Direct SME spending targets and the Defence SME Hub will simplify procurement and contract access, but securing the right talent is key to success.
At Jonathan Lee Recruitment, we’ve placed 900+ professionals in the defence sector since 2020, helping SMEs build skilled teams across engineering, procurement, and technology. If you're looking to scale and secure top talent for defence contracts, get in touch.
Working with Jonathan Lee Recruitment
Jonathan Lee Recruitment has been a trusted partner in the defence sector for over 45 years, specialising in recruitment for SMEs. We connect businesses with top talent across engineering, manufacturing, commercial and technical specialisms, while also advising on security clearance and compliance to meet MOD requirements. Our services help SMEs build agile, future-ready teams, secure and deliver defence contracts, and implement workforce planning strategies for efficient growth.
- Trusted by the Defence Sector: We work with MOD suppliers, defence primes, and SMEs entering the supply chain.
- Industry Expertise: Our team, many of whom come from within industry, specialise in defence recruitment across multiple disciplines.
- Proven Track Record: Close to 5 Decades of experience securing top talent for mission-critical roles.
- Silver Award Status (Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS)): We are dedicated to supporting the armed forces community. We take pride in employing ex-service professionals across our business and assisting servicemen and women as they transition from military to civilian life.
Roles we recruit for
We specialise in hiring for defence roles, including:
- Engineering & Manufacturing – Design Engineers, Systems Engineers, CNC Machinists
- Supply Chain & Procurement – Buyers, Logistics Managers, Procurement Specialists
- Technology & Innovation – Cybersecurity, AI & Data Specialists, Software Engineers
- Project & Programme Management – Contract Managers, Bid Specialists, Project Leads
''Their commitment to our mission has been exemplary''
Since 2020 Jonathan Lee Recruitment has supported NP Aerospace with the recruitment of hundreds of employees to fill their permanent and contract vacancies. Everything from Maintenance Engineers to Project Managers, from Process Operators to Vehicle Technicians.
Jay Simms, Recruitment Manager, NP Aerospace
Our work with the defence sector
NP Aerospace
Discover how Jonathan Lee Recruitment teamed up with NP Aerospace to help recruit and build large operational teams at speed.
CES Advanced Armour
As CES Advanced Armour expanded, they required a strategic hiring partner to help them source and recruit - they chose Jonathan Lee.
Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land
Discover how Jonathan Lee Recruitment teamed up with Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) to help recruit top-tier talent for their evolving business needs.
Work with Jonathan Lee Recruitment
Contact us today to discover how we can help with your recruitment needs
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The Defence recruitment team
When you partner with Jonathan Lee Recruitment, finding the perfect candidate for your defence job openings becomes a hassle-free process. Our dedicated team of recruitment professionals is committed to delivering the very best service, saving you time and resources while ensuring you make the best hiring decisions.
tel: 01952 987033
mailto:matt.johnson@jonlee.co.uk
Contact the Defence recruitment team
Contact us today to discover how we can help with your defence recruitment needs.