After moving home, I'm finding it hard to get a job

Question

I have always had a steady career in the contract/local authority sector in area manager positions. Since 1988 I was employed for a local authority as an area manager providing school meals. My problem is that I resigned in August 2001 because my wife wanted to return to Ireland. I have now been out of work since arriving there and finding any suitable work is difficult. I am 52 years old and am now contemplating returning to the UK. I feel that resigning has become a barrier, even though I can provide references from my previous employer. How best can I sell myself in order to resume my career? I have attached a copy of my CV for information and comment.

What the expert says

Ian Hall, director of human resources, Aramark

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As in all job applications you need to accentuate the positive aspects. Describe yourself as a 52-year-old with lots of energy, enthusiasm and a wealth of experience. Indicate that you left the UK to go to Ireland for domestic reasons, but now you are keen to pick up your career in area management again. Tighten up your CV a little. People only spend two or three minutes to look at all your details. Make it shorter and sharper, but full of self belief.