Made Smarter has launched a new fast-track leadership programme to help Cheshire SME manufacturers accelerate their digital transformation.

In just three months, the 'Leading Digital Transformation' programme will turn participants into digitally-informed, empowered leaders, armed with a bespoke digitalisation strategy.

The funded solution has been designed by Made Smarter's North West Adoption Programme, the government-funded industry-led initiative to increase technology adoption among SME manufacturers, and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU).

Heading up the programme is Dr Ann Mulhaney, senior enterprise fellow for the Centre for Enterprise at MMU, an expert in organisational transformation, strategy and innovation, leading change and employee engagement.

Leaders will walk away with a set of practical tools, a strategy for digital transformation and an offer to access further support from Made Smarter, including funding for new technology.

The new programme is available by application to manufacturing businesses with less than 250 employees, a turnover of less than £36 million or a balance sheet of less than £18 million, and a significant part of their operations based in the North West.

Donna Edwards, director of Made Smarter's North West Adoption Programme, said: "Manufacturing leaders have endured an incredibly difficult few years, steering a course through the pandemic and facing up to new challenges such as rising energy prices, supply chain disruption and labour shortages. 

"Technology and a digital strategy are important for SME leaders so they are better equipped to deal with current and forthcoming challenges and opportunities. 

"The Made Smarter leadership programme was the first of its kind and developed a generation of digital leaders. We are confident that our new fast-track, funded Leading Digital Transformation programme will have an even greater impact, supporting a new generation of leaders to make the most of opportunities that digital transformation can offer."

L-R: Donna Edwards, Ruth Hailwood and Mandy Parkinson (Image - Made Smarter)

Mandy Parkinson, director of the Centre for Enterprise at Manchester Metropolitan University, said: "MMU is delighted to collaborate with Made Smarter on this new leadership programme which will provide fast, focused support to business leaders at such a critical time. 

"Since 2015, we have supported more than 2,000 SMEs in areas including growth, innovation and resilience and we are looking forward to seeing the difference our range of expertise will make to more businesses across the region."

Registration to join the programme, which starts on March 30, is now open.

For more details on the visit: https://www.madesmarter.uk/adoption/develop-your-digital-leadership/leading-digital-transformation-programme-nw/

READ MORE: Cheshire companies benefit from Made Smarter scheme

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