As Made Smarter continues to build a new generation of digital leaders, the impact of the Leading Digital Transformation (LDT) programme is being felt across every corner of the North West’s manufacturing community.
Delivered in partnership with the University of Salford and Manchester Metropolitan University, the 14-week programme helps SME manufacturers gain the confidence, strategy and skills to lead their businesses through digital change.
Following the latest graduation, several participants shared additional reflections on their experience, offering unique insights into how the programme is helping manufacturers combine people, process, and technology to drive smarter, more sustainable growth.
Building confidence and a broader perspective
Christopher Bridge, Welder Fabricator at Reverse Engineering (Whitestake, near Preston)
“At first the course felt like a whirlwind, but it quickly gave me the tools to step back and see the bigger picture. I’ve developed skills in scoping, planning and process mapping which have helped me identify potential growth opportunities within the business.
One of the most valuable aspects was the cohort itself. I learnt so much from being alongside other leaders and created a fantastic new network that I can draw on in the future.
The timing has been perfect as I step into a management role to oversee our new laser cutting service. The programme has given me the confidence and practical tools to make sure this investment delivers real improvements in quality, efficiency and customer satisfaction.”
Leading change and engaging people
Andy Lomas, Operations Manager at Heaford
“One of my biggest learnings from the programme was understanding the change curve and Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model. I’ve always been confident in planning and delivering projects, but I hadn’t recognised the point where people begin to struggle with change. Now I have the tools to approach that stage differently, supporting colleagues in the right way and preparing for the challenges that come with it.
“The case studies we explored were also eye-opening. Seeing the results achieved by other manufacturers, like Firstplay Dietary Foods with automation, gave me new insights into how change can create smoother processes without adding more people. Sharing experiences with other leaders was highly rewarding and has given me a new perspective on how to bring ideas back into the business.
“One of the most powerful outcomes has been finding practical ways to get buy-in on the shop floor. Using action boards to log problems and track solutions showed the team that issues really were being fixed, sometimes in a matter of days after years of frustration. That changed attitudes quickly and proved the value of communicating clearly and following through on actions. The programme has given me the confidence to embed structured change models into the way I lead and to make change stick.”
Balancing heritage and innovation
Kathryn Graves, Owner, and Allison Thompson, Operations, The Toffee Shop (Penrith)
“At the start of the programme, we saw this as our opportunity to showcase how a traditional business can embrace digital transformation while retaining its heritage. The tools and support encouraged us to step back from the day-to-day, look closely at the business, and recognise that everything is possible in small stages. It has given us a better understanding of technology and how to make it work for us without losing the values at the heart of what we do.
“One of the most powerful learnings has been about our people. We now know we have to talk to our team more, involve everyone in the role they play, and make sure they feel part of our journey. The culture survey helped us see where we could improve, and we’ve committed to introducing appraisals, performance reviews, and clearer responsibilities so our employees feel supported and can see career development opportunities.
“The faculty and our peers on the programme have been a huge source of support and reassurance, reminding us that we are not alone in this journey. By combining what we’ve learned with our own vision, we can plan confidently for growth, explore new efficiencies, and at the same time protect the heritage that makes The Toffee Shop so special.”
Communicating across teams and sites
Alex Oliver, Production Manager at Lasercomb (part of Arden Group)
“One of the biggest lessons for me was recognising the mistakes we’ve made in the past by introducing software without the proper planning and support. It created frustration and inefficiency, and this programme has helped me understand why that happened and how to approach things differently. Learning about the change curve has been eye-opening and has given me the tools to anticipate where people might struggle and how to support them through it.
“A key takeaway has been the importance of clear communication and involving everyone in the journey. Digital transformation only works if people are engaged and understand the benefits, so I want to make sure I can support and lead our teams more effectively. The programme has given me the confidence to take that role on, making sure colleagues feel informed and part of the process rather than having change imposed on them.
“What has really stood out is the value of collaboration. Sharing experiences with peers and learning from other businesses reminded me that we aren’t alone in facing these challenges. I now feel better equipped to bring departments and sites together, strengthen communication, and make sure that any changes we put in place deliver the right impact across the whole business.”
Made Smarter’s Leading Digital Transformation programme continues to create real impact, empowering manufacturers to lead with clarity, communicate with confidence, and deliver sustainable improvements through technology.