Made Smarter is celebrating a new generation of manufacturing leaders who are learning together to drive digital transformation across the North West.
The latest cohort of its Leading Digital Transformation (LDT) programme brought together 12 SME manufacturers from a wide range of industries who have each gained the confidence, strategy and skills to lead their businesses into the digital age.
Delivered in partnership with the University of Salford and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), the LDT programme blends face-to-face and online learning over 14 weeks, giving manufacturing leaders a flexible, high-impact experience that fits around their day-to-day demands.
The programme, part of Made Smarter North West, the government-funded, industry-led technology adoption initiative, also provides first-hand exposure to advanced technologies and creates valuable peer learning networks that extend beyond the classroom.
Since its launch in 2023, the LDT programme has established 65 digital leaders as informed and empowered change-makers, each equipped with a bespoke digital strategy. This follows the success of Made Smarter’s earlier leadership initiative, which supported 62 business leaders between 2019 and 2023.
The latest cohort includes 12 manufacturers from sectors such as engineering, food and drink, furniture, heritage craft and sustainable fashion.
Graduates, who reflects the programme’s focus on both current and emerging leaders, include: Paul Fleming at Fleming Howland; Andy Lomas at JM Heaford; Alex Oliver at Lasercomb Dies; Rosie Parkinson and Niall Monks at Lovingly Artisan; Chris Bridge at Reverse Engineering; Kathryn Graves and Allison Thompson at The Toffee Shop; Alex Parry at WAWWA Clothing; Thomas Williams at A. Algeo; Raphael Ogunrinde at Calyx Drinks; and Nick Meyers at Somerford Equipment.
Simon Keogh, General Manager of Factory Automation at Siemens UK and Ireland, and a member of Made Smarter North West’s Steering Board, attended the recent graduation showcase event.
He said: “Digital transformation is not a single project but a continual process of improvement. Many SMEs recognise the significant productivity improvements that can be gained from the use of new technologies, from AI to digital modelling and simulation. Made Smarter’s leadership programme is empowering manufacturers with the tools and confidence to embed that mindset and bring their people with them.”
Participants say the programme has helped them build confidence, strategy and momentum.
Alex Parry, Operations Coordinator at WAWWA, a sustainable clothing manufacturer based in Ancoats, Manchester, said: “As someone new to the textiles industry, the programme has been a real eye-opener. The strategic tools, such as SWOT analysis, helped me see the bigger picture and approach transformation in a structured way.
“It also reinforced how important mindset and communication are in shaping culture. The peer learning element was invaluable, giving me practical ideas to take back into WAWWA and the confidence to drive change with people at the heart of it.”
Paul Fleming, Managing Director of Fleming Howland, a furniture manufacturer based in Hapton, Lancashire, said: “Our challenge is to respect heritage craftsmanship while embracing the tools that secure our future. The programme gave us structured planning tools and the confidence to use digital technologies such as CNC and kanban software alongside traditional artistry without compromising quality.
“Taking time to step back and look at the business strategically helped us identify ways to reduce lead times, cut waste and improve communication. We are now developing an R&D hub, investing in digital workflows and bringing more production in-house to support apprenticeships and sustainable growth.”
Rosie Parkinson, Business Development at Lovingly Artisan, a sourdough bakery based at Plumgarths, Cumbria, said: “The programme gave us the space to step back and analyse our business, highlighting the value of a clear strategy and achievable goals everyone can align with.
“A major learning was the importance of communication and engaging staff through change. The experience has helped us strengthen dialogue across the business and build a culture where everyone understands and supports our goals for growth and improvement.”
Manufacturers across the North West are now invited to register for the next Leading Digital Transformation programme and join Made Smarter’s growing ecosystem of digital leaders shaping the future of UK manufacturing.
Ruth Hailwood, Made Smarter’s Lead Organisation and Workforce Development Specialist, said: “What makes this programme special is that it brings manufacturing leaders together to share ideas, challenges and experiences in a space designed for their sector. They quickly realise they are not alone on their digital journey.
“By learning with and from their peers, participants build lasting networks of support that extend far beyond the course itself. That community of shared learning and collaboration is what drives the wider culture of digital leadership we are building through Made Smarter.
“Our people-first approach helps SME manufacturers adopt technology in a way that fits their business. The programme gives leaders the time and space to step back, reflect and share ideas with peers, so they can take their whole organisation through digital transformation with confidence.”
Dr Ann Mulhaney, Associate Professor of Change Management at the University of Salford, said: “This partnership between academia and industry is helping to shape a new generation of leaders who can guide manufacturing through the opportunities and complexities of digital transformation.”