Stepping into SaaS: A Career Shift Built for Service Leavers
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If you’re leaving the armed forces and wondering where to apply your skills, you’re not alone. 

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The civilian job market can feel like a minefield, full of vague job descriptions and jargon. One industry you might not have considered - but absolutely should - is Software as a Service (SaaS). It’s fast-growing, packed with opportunities, and a natural fit for military veterans looking for structured, high-impact careers.

What Exactly is SaaS?

SaaS is essentially software you access over the internet instead of installing it on a computer. Remember when software came in a box with a CD-ROM? Those days are gone. Now, businesses subscribe to software tools just like you subscribe to Netflix. The difference? Instead of entertainment, SaaS provides business solutions like communication platforms, data management, cybersecurity tools, and more.

Real-World Examples of SaaS

If you’ve never worked in an office, SaaS might sound abstract, so here are some common examples:

• Microsoft 365 – The digital backbone of most businesses (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
• Salesforce – A powerful tool for managing customer relationships
• Zoom – Video conferencing, whether for remote work or large corporate meetings
• Slack – Team messaging, replacing endless email chains
• Dropbox – Cloud storage for files, replacing clunky hard drives
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In simple terms, SaaS provides businesses with essential software without the hassle of maintenance, security updates, or expensive IT infrastructure.

Why is SaaS Taking Over?

SaaS is booming, and for good reason. Here’s why businesses are jumping on board:

• Cost-Effective: No massive upfront investment, just a subscription fee
  
• Always Up to Date: Regular updates keep the software running smoothly
  
• Accessible Anywhere: Work from anywhere with an internet connection
  
• Scalable: Businesses can start small and expand as needed
  
• Built-in Security: SaaS providers handle security updates and compliance

In short, SaaS allows businesses to focus on what they do best without worrying about outdated software or expensive IT infrastructure.

What Roles Exist in SaaS for Veterans?

SaaS isn’t just for software developers. Whether you’re tech-savvy or more business-oriented, there’s a role for you. Here’s where veterans fit in:

Technical Roles (For Those Who Like Problem-Solving)

• Cloud Infrastructure Engineer – Ensures the software runs smoothly on platforms like AWS or Azure
• Security Specialist – Protects customer data and maintains system security
• Technical Support Engineer – Troubleshoots and resolves customer issues

Business & Operations Roles (For Natural Leaders)

• Project Manager – Plans and oversees SaaS implementation for clients
• Customer Success Manager – Ensures customers get the most out of the software
• Operations Manager – Oversees internal business processes, ensuring efficiency

Sales & Marketing (For Those Who Can Influence & Negotiate)

• Sales Development Representative (SDR) – Identifies and qualifies business opportunities. (Check out this article for more on SDR)
• Account Executive – Manages client relationships and closes deals
• Product Marketing Manager – Develops go-to-market strategies for new software

If you’ve worked in logistics, communications, intelligence, or leadership in the military, you already have transferable skills that can make you a strong fit for many of these roles.

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Why the Military Community Excels in SaaS

Veterans bring a set of skills that SaaS companies need:

• Adaptability: Just like military operations, SaaS environments change rapidly. Veterans are used to thinking on their feet.
  
• Security Mindset: With cybersecurity being a massive concern, those with security experience in the armed forces are highly valuable.
  
• Leadership: Veterans know how to manage teams, follow processes, and get results.
  
• Problem-Solving: Tactical thinking and operational planning translate directly into project management and customer success roles.

Key Statistics and Market Insights

• Market Size: The UK is the second-largest IT spender per business headcount globally, behind only the US. British SaaS companies make up around 9% of high-growth sectors.
• Investment Surge: The UK’s top five B2C SaaS companies have secured nearly £2 billion in funding, showing investor confidence in the sector.
• Employment Growth: SaaS sales roles alone are projected to increase from 7,000 to 8,000 by the end of 2024, indicating strong job demand.

How to Get Started in SaaS

Unlike the structured rank-based progression in the armed forces, SaaS offers multiple entry points:

1. Training & Certification: Courses like AWS, Google Cloud, or cybersecurity certifications can boost your profile.
2. Veteran-Specific Programmes: Some SaaS companies run ex-forces job schemes.
3. Networking & Ex-Military Support Groups: Connect with other veterans working in tech to get insights and referrals.

Making the Move

Whether you're fresh out of the military or have been in civilian life for years, SaaS is an industry worth considering. The sector values structured thinking, leadership, and adaptability - things the military has trained you in for years.

Next Steps

• Identify which SaaS roles match your military skills
• Join veteran job networks and communities
• Research training options for in-demand certifications
• Start connecting with companies that value ex-forces experience

The British Armed Forces are built on resilience, discipline, and teamwork - exactly what SaaS companies need to scale and succeed.

See Which SaaS Roles Fit You Best

Want to skip the guesswork? Try our AI-Driven Career Platform. It takes just a few minutes and matches your skills, experiences, and career goals to the right civvy roles for you.

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‍Click here to take it for a spin.