A FORMER Warminster army officer who served with NATO in Iraq and Kosovo is using his diplomatic experience to help solve conflicts in the workplace.

Felix Spender, who previously secured the release of more than 100 hostages captured by Somalian pirates, set up North Light Solutions in 2011 to help companies deal with the effects of change and conflict.

The 57-year-old accredited mediator, who served in the army for 30 years, said: “I have seen the devastating effects conflict can have on a country – from loss of life to a stunted economy.

“My time in the army has taught me it is generally in everybody’s interest to try to resolve conflict – and as quickly as possible.

“In a business, if left to fester, it can lead to a lack of productivity and cost thousands of pounds.”

The Institute of Economics and Peace (IEP) reported global conflict cost 13 per cent of global GNP and resulted in 180,000 deaths.

And the Chartered Institute of Personal Development (CIPD) found conflict led to a loss of productivity and one in three people quit because of it.

Mr Spender, who joined the army at 18 and trained at Sandhurst, added: “Whether it’s working in a war-torn country or a fractured firm, the principles are the same.

“It is important to be impartial, understanding and able to work with all parties concerned.

“My experience has given me a very good understanding of people and conflict.

“The important thing is to understand that conflict will always be present and ensure it is managed.”

For more information, visit northlightsolutions.com.