The latest cohort of Made Smarter's Leading Digital Transformation (LDT) programme brought together 12 SME manufacturers from a wide range of industries who were each taught strategies and skills to confidently lead their businesses into the digital age.
Delivered in partnership with Salford University and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), the LDT programme blends face-to-face and online learning over a 14 week course, 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.
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The latest cohort includes 12 manufacturers from sectors such as engineering, food and drink, furniture, heritage craft and sustainable fashion including: Fleming Howland; JM Heaford; Lasercomb Dies; Lovingly Artisan; Reverse Engineering; The Toffee Shop; WAWWA Clothing; Algeo; and Calyx Drinks.
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.
“Digital transformation is not a single project but a continual process of improvement," he said. "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. For example, Alex Parry, Operations Coordinator at WAWWA, a sustainable clothing manufacturer based in 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."
