I haven't worked in over a decade and I'm returning to work in a completely new industry, having done a second degree while being a SAHM. As such, I have no recent business referees, but my new job is asking for two references.
I think my old boss has retired and he's in another country, but I can probably contact him and ask him if he'd be one of them. The other alternatives are my last tutor from my degree course, someone who has become a personal friend who I worked with 25 years ago, and then sundry other friends with professional jobs who've known me for years and can vouch for me. I can provide business, academic or personal referees. What combo of people should I go for and is it necessary to provide my old boss? I last worked for him 17 years ago.
The opinion of anyone with HR or recent hiring experience would be much appreciated.