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Promotions SOP UKCF

Overview

This SOP outlines the procedures and requirements for promotions within the United Kingdom Command Force (UKCF), encompassing all subordinate unitsunits. — includingIncluding 40 Commando, 47 Commando, and any future formations.

Promotions within UKCF are designed to reward development, leadership capability, and consistent contribution to the organisation. Progression through the ranks is achieved via structured development pipelines and formal promotion boards, ensuring that all leadership appointments are based on merit, capability, and readiness.

Development Pipelines

There are two recognised development pipelines within UKCF that prepare personnel for advancement through the ranks: the Advanced Commando Skills Course (ACSC) and the Junior Non-Commissioned Officer Cadre (JNCO Cadre).

Advanced Commando Skills Course (ACSC)

  • Frequency: Conducted approximately twice per year.

  • Duration: 5 weeks (1 session per week).

  • Purpose: Developmental course designed to expand an individual’s operational and leadership skills. This course is not pass/fail — it focuses on improvement and growth.

Completion of ACSC allows an individual to:

  • Stand for the Senior Marine Promotion Board.

  • After four months as a Senior Marine, stand for the Lance Corporal Promotion Board.

  • Progression beyond Lance Corporal is capped until JNCO Cadre completion.

Junior Non-Commissioned Officer Cadre (JNCO Cadre)

  • Frequency: Conducted annually.

  • Duration: 10 weeks (with staged washouts every ~3 weeks).

  • Purpose: Pass/fail leadership qualification course designed for those seeking command appointments such as Section Commander or higher.

Completion of JNCO Cadre allows an individual to stand for Senior Marine,Marine, Lance Corporal,Corporal, or Corporal Promotion Boards, based on experience and the DS assessment of your individual readiness.

Acting Ranks

The “Acting” designation may be assigned to individuals temporarily fulfilling the responsibilities of a higher rank without having completed the required qualification course. This designation reflects active duty in the role and is not awarded for general merit or attendance.attendance.

  • Acting ranks can apply to Senior Marine, Lance Corporal, or Corporal.

  • Individuals holding an acting rank are encouraged to attend the next available ACSC or JNCO Cadre.Cadre.

  • Acting ranks may be revoked if an individual declines available training opportunities or if another qualified member assumes the position.

Authority to assign Acting ranks:

  • Troop and Company Commanders may assign Acting Senior Marine immediately where appropriate.

  • Acting Lance Corporal and Acting Corporal appointments may be recommended by Troop and Company Commanders but require final approval by the OC UKCF (Lt. W. Scott).

Promotion Boards

All formal promotions within UKCF (Senior Marine, Lance Corporal, Corporal) are conducted through an official Promotion Board.Board.

Promotion Boards assess leadership ability, knowledge, and conduct through a structured one-hour session comprising:

  1. Support Member Brief

  2. Question & Answer Segment

  3. WarRoom Session

Promotion Boards are convened by UKCF Command staff and follow standardised criteria across all UKCF units to ensure fairness and consistency.

Higher Ranks (Sergeant and Above)

Promotions to Sergeant and above fall under the direct discretion of UKCF Command.Command.
These ranks are reserved for individuals who have demonstrated sustained excellence, relevant leadership skills, or have completed advanced training or equivalent leadership development courses. Appointments at this level are rare and based on operational necessity, leadership performance, and trust.

Summary

This SOP ensures all promotions within UKCF are governed by consistent and transparent standards. The dual development pathways provide clear routes for advancement, while Acting appointments allow flexibility in maintaining effective command structures.
By adhering to these principles, UKCF maintains professionalism, fairness, and operational integrity across all units.

Created By:

Maj. W. Scott
OC, UKCF

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