Operations Directorate HQ DSDA
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Description of duty position and work environment
Joint Operations Officer /Exchange Officer to the Defence Storage and Distribution Agency, an Office of the Ministry of Defence, United Kingdom.
Responsible for verifying, maintaining and developing Agency Contingency Plans in support of Operations worldwide. Responsible for planning support
to large-scale operations and exercises that enables execution of worldwide supply and distribution missions of the British Armed Forces. Acts as the focal point for staffing emerging operational doctrine and development issues and provides oversight for the Agency's Key Supply Management Tasks. Serves as the first line supervisor to one Army Warrant Officer. Performs other duties as assigned by the Chief Executive and the US Army Attache.
Further information is provided in Annex B, Job Description & Post Profile.
1. Operations Directorate
Under the post-FDSCi strucuture the Operations Directorate remains the largest directorate in the Head Office with responsibility for both the day-to-day and future operations of the Agency. Focus includes:
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Tri-Service storage and distribution support to customers.
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Operating procedures and policies.
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Pan-DSDC commitments, initiatives and efficiencies which affect operations.
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Agency Customer Supplier Agreements (CSAs).
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Agency logistics performance reports against Key Targets.
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Agency Information Systems Strategy.
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Process Management and Process Improvement.
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Custodianship of the non-explosives inventory on behalf of equipment managers.
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Management Information Reports.
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Implementation of the Agency's Non-Explosives Estate Rationalisation Programme.
2. Agency Profile
The Defence Storage and Distribution Agency is an Agency of the Ministry of Defence (MOD). The Secretary of State for Defence is ultimately responsible for the Agency although he delegates ownership responsibilities to the Director General, Defence Supply Chain. The Agency has recently merged with Defence Munitions as recommended in the 1997 Strategic Defence Review (SDR). The SDR essentially directed that the MOD streamline and become more efficient. This is essentially what our Armed Forces went through after the first Gulf War. The Future Defence Supply Chain Initiative (FDSCi) is one of several MOD-wide studies currently looking at how further efficiencies can be made. You will find that the MOD will examine DOD change programs and implement those that are promising. The EO will be involved in various parts of DSDA's change initiatives and can often find corresponding initiatives already implemented in the US.
3. Agency Mission and Vision
The Agency's mission is "To sustain the Fighting Power of UK Armed Forces world-wide by providing a storage, processing and distribution service that meets the highest levels of professional excellence." DSDA's vision is "To be the first choice supplier for the distribution, maintenance, processing and storage of materiel for Defence." The Agency is headed by a Chief Executive, currently a retired Army Brigadier. The main directorates in the Headquarters are Plans, Non-Explosives Operations, Explosives Operations and Business Management. The major units are the Defence Storage and Distribution Centres (DSDCs) located throughout England and Germany and Defence Munitions Centres (DMCs) located in England and Scotland, there are five DSDCs and eight DMCs (depots). In addition, there is a Support Centres Directorate, which manages DSDA's Regional Distribution Centres and Materiel Parks and an equivalent organization in Germany which manages its units in Germany. The Agency's six Ammunition Compounds are managed by DMC Kineton. The locations of the Agency's major and minor installations is included below.
4. Future Impacts on the Exchange Officer Post
Since its existence the DSDA has constantly been evolving. This will not change over the next few years. This Agency and other elements of the Defence Supply Chain are being scrutinized under the Future Defence Supply Chain Initiative (FDSC(i)). It is widely believed at MOD level that a mostly non-MOD entity can take over the running of the UK based portion of the supply chain. There are five options being examined that range from changing very little to complete outsourcing by industry. The options on either end "Do Minimum" and "Complete Outsource" are unlikely to go far in the final decision making process. One of the remaining – "Do Better", "Trading Fund" and "Partner with Industry" will likely win the bid and this will radically effect the size, scope, and shape of DSDA . If transformation under FDSC(i) happens in line with DSDA’s aspirations, there will be a significant impact on the Exchange Post here for the remainder of my tour and if I am replaced in this post will radically effect the work of any future Exchange Officers assigned here. Under this initiative the Agency will become much more commercially oriented and will reflect a structure similar to a modern civilian company with a matrix-based management system to include an enabling function structure. A MOD Agency that recently won a Trading Fund bid has virtually no military left after only two years and if DSDA becomes "Partnered with Industry" as the preferred solution there would be little to any room for military personnel in the structure. If an Exchange Officer follows me in this post, he/she will need to be very aware of the impacts this will have on the post and to make recommendations regarding the post quickly. The Agency has foreseen this and is looking to extend its influence into operational theaters, which should enable it to keep a significant portion of its military members. The bottom line is that I will work with the DSDA, the Military Attaché, and the MPEP Office to in preparing a set of recommendations regarding the future of an Exchange Officer in this post once the announcement on FDSC(i) has been made.
Description of Housing
Quarters
  Family quarters are available in the village of Ambrosden. It is located just 1.5 miles from the Headquarters and 3 miles from the southeast corner of Bicester.
Single officers have the option to stay in the Mess (very Spartan) or rent on the economy.
The quarters are located in the Married Officers housing area and were built during the past 40 years. Traditionally, the incoming PEP officer occupies the same house as the predecessor. This system has worked out well in coordinating transition with all services/agencies. The quarters (4 bedrooms) are comfortable however there is limited closet space in each room. Additional wardrobes can be used however they would occupy valuable living space. Furniture can also be provided by the British housing service for a monthly charge. Careful consideration should be given in determining the size and amount of furniture to be brought into the quarters. The rooms tend to be smaller and are of an odd shape. We left many pieces of furniture in storage behind in the States. |
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Household Goods
 Appliances (220 voltage) are available through the Embassy (220 voltage in the house only). Recommend these appliances be used as the space in the quarters won't allow for large appliances. Rental payment for the quarters (approximately ?260 - $420/ month) and other utilities are paid quarterly to the appropriate agency.
Here is an idea of some of the rooms and household goods suggestions:
- Living Room
Not exceptionally large, but can accommodate a large sofa, love seat, end table(s) and a coffee table. The room is about twice as long as wide, which makes furniture placement awkward. The room is fitted with an electric fire.
- Dining Room
Nice sized room, which can accommodate a full formal suite.
- Kitchen
Large for UK standards, lots of counter space and you can fit a small (round works best) breakfast table in the central area as well. Walk in pantry and numerous cabinets. Stove is supplied by the UK MOD.
- Laundry Room
Is an alcove off the kitchen. Appliances provided. The dishwasher is in this area as well. Washer and dryer are considered mini's by our standards (dryer is in a shed just outside the kitchen door). Capacity is very small and takes about twice as long to do a load.
- Bathrooms
One and half. Full bath and shower upstairs, toilet and sink downstairs. Bathroom has no cabinets. Would suggest some type of stacking storage system.
- Bedrooms
Four total. Master can fit a king size (although we have a queen in ours), two dressers, two nightstands, a cedar chest and a rocking chair (shaped like the living room). There are two small built in wardrobes. The second bedroom can accommodate a queen size bed, one dresser and a nightstand. The other two bedrooms are much smaller, but both have small closets.
- TV
You will need a multi-system TV/VCR/DVD to view UK Television. There are 5 or 6 standard UK channels. We purchased a multi system TV at the PX which is NTSC/PAL compatible (works for US and UK TVs, videos, and DVDs). Do not buy a TV on the UK economy (as they are very expensive and are 110V). Many people opt to purchase a satellite TV system either European (SKY) or American (AFN). For SKY the cost is about the same cost as US cable, however you are required to purchase the receiver and dish.  UK TV license is ?120 per year. Another option is keep your set and rent a satellite converter from the Navy Annex at West Ruislip (west side of London - where you will pick-up your vehicle) at $25 per month. This set-up gives you 6 AFN channels.
- Yard
Our yard is very large by UK standards. The back is enclosed by fencing covered by hedges all the way around. Most houses in the neighborhood have large lawns and mature trees. Recommend that you bring a normal gas-powered mower or purchase one when you arrive here. The yard work is not a chore to keep up with.
- Grill
Gas grills require an adapter to use UK tanks and are butane as opposed to propane (which burns hotter). Adapters can be purchased at the PX and tanks can be purchased on the economy at Upper Heyford (about 25 minutes away). |
Medical and Dental care
There are several options for health care including the National Health System (NHS), British Army services or US services at RAF Croughton. For non-emergency care, we have opted to use the health clinic at RAF Croughton. The staff and service is excellent. Dental services are also available at RAF Croughton. Overall, services are excellent. Realize that the dental staff are somewhat reluctant to treat small children (under four years of age) and the nearest US children's dentist is at RAF Lakenheath. The only emergency medical facilities close enough to matter are NHS.
Description of Military Post Office, Commissary and PX Facilities
US support facilities for this assignment are relatively convenient. The closest US military facility is located at Royal Air Force (RAF) Base Croughton. It is located approximately 12 miles (or 25 minutes) from the quarters. Services available are mail, small commissary, small Post Exchange, shopette, chapel, bowling center, medical, dental, banking, community club and school/daycare (if needed). The commissary is adequate for a small installation and provides the majority of items needed. RAF Mildenhall and Lakenheath (both major bases) are located approximately 70 miles (or 2 hours) northeast. There you will find a major PX with sporting goods, outdoor equipment, cinemas, DA Photo and all the major support services typically available at a large military installation. There is also a large furniture store at RAF Feltwell, 10 miles north of Mildenhall. In addition, RAF Mildenhall is the location for the Military Airlift Command and offers air transportation services in accordance with the applicable rules. Buying fuel for your automobile is convenient with the fuel coupon program. In addition to a fuel station at RAF Croughton, the fuel coupons purchased at the PX are accepted at fuel stations throughout the UK. Although fuel here is more expensive than it is in the US, if you use the fuel coupons you get a substantial savings compared to the price on the economy.
What religious services are available locally?
There are a wide range of religious services available in the general area. The local community area has several Episcopal, Anglican, and Catholic Churches. RAF Croughton has a Christian Post Chapel, and the surrounding communities (especially the larger towns of Milton Keynes and Oxford have a more diverse religious population.
Banking
Currently the exchange rate for England has been in the area of one British Pound Sterling (BPS) to one dollar eighty-nine cents (?1=$1.89). We have opted to keep our permanent bank account in the US and opened a Sterling account at the RAF Croughton Community Bank to handle local monthly bills. The cost of living in the UK is higher. However, BAH covers rent and the COLA covers most other expenses.
Schools
The local education facility in Ambrosden is available and is located adjacent to the quarters. Five Acres School caters to children of age’s 5-11 years. Nursery schools are available in Bicester, but can be expensive. Local private schools include Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Primary School, Ravenstone House for ages 4-11 in Bicester, Ashfold School, etc. Our children attend Ashfold School, a private school 9 miles away, which offers tremendous educational opportunities. RAF Croughton has a Department of Defense (DODDS) primary school. There are also public primary schools in the villages of Marsh Gibbon and Grendon (5 and 10 minutes away respectively) with good reputations. These schools are popular and it is important to put your children on immediately on a waiting list. Secondary level education (12 and over) is available at a local school in Bicester (Cooper School). If desired, various boarding schools could be an option. The local public education facilities are free of cost to the exchange officer. There are three school terms. The Fall Term (begins in early September), Winter Term (after Christmas) and the Summer Term (late May through late July). Breaks between terms are usually 2 - 3 weeks and mid-term breaks are about 1 – 2 weeks long. Hidden costs for children K-5 are the cost of school uniforms, sports equipment, field trips, and extra-curricular school-sponsored activities. There are greater educational differences at the 6th through 8th grade level as students begin to prepare for exams, which determine whether they continue what we would consider traditional education or attend the UK equivalent of trade school. It is very important to research this thoroughly upon arrival to determine what is best for your situation.
Good information on schools throughout the UK can be found on-line. Click here for a good website on local education.
POV Information
We shipped our car from St. Louis, MO and picked it up at West Ruislip (on the west side of London). Additional expenses include automobile road tax (?165 yearly; with first year exempt), vehicle tags (number plates approximately $25 if you get them at RAF Croughton, about ?25 if you get them on the economy) and Ministry of Transport (MOT) fee (vehicle road-worthy inspection ?35). In order to register your car, the lights will need to be modified and a rear fog light installed (modifications are temporary). There is a gentleman at RAF Croughton who does this work for anywhere between $50 - $150 depending on your vehicle. Repair of certain types of vehicles in this area is difficult. We have a 2000 Pontiac Montana and had to have it shipped up to RAF Mildenhall in order to have a wheel bearing repaired because no shops here could get the parts and Pontiac doesn't have a rep in the UK. We have purchased a used Land Rover and it's very easy to get fixed here.
Miscellaneous
Local Area Information
Bicester is a busy market town set in the open countryside of North Oxfordshire. The town has a population of approximately 26,000 and is well placed as a location from which to strike out and explore the UK. Bicester sits roughly in the center of a circle formed by Oxford, Banbury, Buckingham and Aylesbury. Each of these places being some 15 miles from Ambrosden. Traveling by car is easy with quick access to a major motorway and a direct train service from Bicester North station to London Marylebone station or to Birmingham is right at an hour. Bicester has a fairly wide range of services, clubs and organizations. There is a Sports Centre that offers swimming, badminton, squash and other indoor games. Also available are a variety of shops, home improvement stores, grocery stores and other minor retail stores. Shopping in the local area is a bit like shopping in small town USA. The shops tend to be small and widely dispersed. There is a large supermarket on the south side of Bicester (Tesco) and several smaller ones. The city we've found most like the US for shopping and leisure is Milton Keynes (50 minute drive northeast). There is an extremely large shopping mall and the city has multi-plex cinemas, sports arenas and even an indoor ski slope. The Bicester Garrison has its Garrison Centre located in Ambrosden. The Garrison Amenities Centre is open to all military families and exchange officers in the area. Services provided are a gym, shoppette, children's playgroup, Catholic Church, quarter's management office, NHS doctors office and other military support services.
Duty Uniform and Other Required Clothing:
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Duty Uniform
I wear BDU's every day.
Class B's are considered equivalent and acceptable.
The Class A Uniform is normally worn twice a year - at the UK Remembrance Day ceremony and at the corresponding US event at RAF Croughton.
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Other requirements for attire tend to be more formal than in the US.
These are the minimum requirements:
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Business Suit
At least two, preferably conservative. You will be required to travel frequently on Agency business and officers are expected to dress at this level.
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Tuxedo - AKA dinner jacket / black tie in the UK
These are worn at the Dinner Nights and other formal functions when Military Uniforms are not worn. There are places to rent locally, but you will be financially better off to buy a new or second hand tux in the US.
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Dress Mess
Worn at Formal Balls and Regimental Dinner Nights. UK Officers don't have a Dress Blue equivalent and blues would be out of place at these events. It is unlikely that you will ever wear Dress Blue, but recommend you bring them just in case.
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Blue Blazer
There are occasions where a blazer, slacks (or khakis) and tie are appropriate - example Sunday brunch at the Mess.
Social Requirements and Entertaining:
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Social Requirements
Nearly all events center around the Bicester Garrison Officers Mess. UK military social activity is much higher than what we are accustomed to. There will be two or three formal balls and at least four formal dinner nights. There will also be a number of casual events held throughout the year. These events typically cost roughly what ours do. However, the major difference is that the UK events are a lot of fun. The food is fabulous and the entertainment is excellent. An added bonus is that the Mess is located in the Officers housing area, one block down the road. Mess membership is mandatory for serving officers at cost of about $22 per month.
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Entertaining
We've found entertaining neighbours and colleagues from work at our home very rewarding. While not required, I've found this essential to our integration into the community and neighbourhood. As most of the Officer's Mess functions are quite formal, I recommend that entertaining be casual. Good examples are back yard BBQ's, Bowling at RAF Croughton or casual theme parties around the 4th of July or Halloween.
Additional Information
For additional information on this post please contact the EO at: 7chy4fq0k@sneakemail.com
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