Made Smarter empowers Oldham leader to deliver smarter manufacturing

Made Smarter has empowered an Oldham leader with the strategy and skills to pursue smarter manufacturing through innovation with its trailblazing leadership programme.

The Leading Digital Transformation (LDT) programme, part of Made Smarter North West Adoption - a government-funded industry-led initiative - focuses on equipping SME manufacturers with the strategies and skills to adopt cutting-edge digital technologies. 

The funded programme is delivered over three months with Manchester Metropolitan University, blending face-to-face workshops, online webinars, case studies to see technology in action, and a site visit to PrintCity, Manchester Met’s 3D additive and digital manufacturing centre. 

Fireproof Fire Engineering, an Oldham-based manufacturer of bespoke fixed fire protection solutions, is amongst the latest cohort of 20 graduates.

Jonathan Gough, Digital Development Lead, said: "The Leadership programme has really opened my eyes to the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation.

"We have ambitious growth targets and recognise that technology and a digital culture is key to achieving that, as well as improving standards and compliance.

“This programme has opened my eyes to the challenges faced by the whole industry and given me confidence to approach the change we need to implement in a way that is inclusive and sustainable.”

Brian Holliday, Co-Chair of the Made Smarter Commission and MD of Siemens Digital Industries, attended the LDT showcase event at Engine Rooms at Birchwood Park, Warrington.

He said: “It was an absolute privilege to meet this latest group of creators and makers to complete our trailblazing Leading Digital Transformation programme and to listen to their inspirational stories.

"While these businesses operate in vastly different sectors, there is a consistency in the way they recognise the importance of people, process, strategy and adoption of technology.”

Since it was launched in 2023, the LDT programme has transformed 54 delegates into digitally-informed, empowered leaders armed with a bespoke digitalisation strategy.

This is in addition to the 62 business leaders equipped with new digital skills through Made Smarter’s trailblazing leadership initiative run between 2019 and 2023.

Manufacturers across the North West are now encouraged to register their interest for the next series of programmes.

Ruth Hailwood, Made Smarter's Organisation and Workforce Development Specialist Adviser, said: “Made Smarter has taken a people-first approach to helping SME manufacturers adopt technology tools to take their businesses forward. 

“Our Leading Digital Transformation programme is designed to be flexible for manufacturing leaders to fit around their busy schedules, allowing them to take time out of their business to reflect on the bigger picture and share ideas, experiences and opportunities with their peers in manufacturing.

“This supports leaders to take their entire organisation and people through digital transformation successfully and maximise the opportunities for their business.”

Since its launch in 2019, Made Smarter has supported over 2,500 manufacturers across the North West, helping them access expert digital advice, adoption strategies, and leadership development.

Manufacturers in the region are encouraged to register for the next series of programmes to unlock new opportunities for digital transformation and growth.

To register your interest or learn more about the Leading Digital Transformation programme, visit: madesmarter.uk

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