Episode 118 - What comes next? Transitioning from the military with Oliver Lee

In this second instalment of our compelling two-part conversation, Gareth takes the lead as we welcome back Colonel Oliver Lee OBE—former Royal Marines officer and proven civilian leader—for an unflinching and deeply personal exploration of transition, adaptability, and the enduring nature of authentic leadership.

Picking up from where we left off, Oliver shares the emotional and professional turbulence that followed his resignation from the Royal Marines—a decision driven by moral conviction. Far from a smooth exit, he describes the profound disorientation, grief, and practical uncertainties of stepping away from a two-decade military career. With honesty and insight, Oliver details how he rebuilt his belief system, repackaged his skills, and ultimately redefined his purpose in the civilian world.

The conversation delves into the hard truths of career reinvention: from navigating executive search firms and confronting misconceptions about military experience, to discovering that leadership, at its core, transcends uniforms, industries, and job titles. Oliver challenges the notion that military leadership is inherently different, arguing persuasively that values like care, courage, and integrity apply just as powerfully in business and social enterprise.

Together, Gareth, Chris, and Oliver explore what civilian organisations can learn from the military—and vice versa—touching on themes of diversity, adaptability, and the critical importance of surrounding oneself with complementary perspectives. Oliver’s reflections on inclusion, emotional resilience, and leading in unfamiliar contexts make for a rich and inspiring listen.

🎙️ Whether you're a senior leader, a transitioning professional, or just starting your journey, this episode offers powerful lessons in courage, humility, and growth—on both sides of the uniform.

🔔 Subscribe to Battling with Business for more conversations that get to the heart of leadership, strategy, and the human dynamics that shape them. And if you missed our first episode with Oliver, go back and catch up—these stories are too important to miss.