Trailblazing leadership programmes help manufacturers drive change at strategic and operational levels.

Manufacturers across Cumbria are playing a key role in the North West’s digital transformation, with 22 leaders now equipped to drive change through Made Smarter’s flagship skills programmes.

The contribution forms part of a wider milestone which has seen more than 250 manufacturing leaders supported across the region.

At the heart of this achievement are government-backed Made Smarter’s two flagship leadership programmes, Leading Digital Transformation (LDT), a three-month course for senior leaders to develop digital strategies, and Leading Change for Digital Champions (LCDC), a shorter programme equipping operational teams to deliver change on the ground.

Increasingly, businesses are taking a whole-organisation approach, using LDT to shape strategy at leadership level while deploying LCDC to empower teams to implement and sustain change day to day.

Firpress, a design, print and signage manufacturer based in Workington, sent participants across management, production and office functions on the most recent LCDC programme, which was hosted in Cumbria for the first time.

Kerri Black, Director at Firpress, said: “The most valuable part for me has been being here alongside members of my team, as it gives a full perspective on our digital journey.”

Paul Graham, Print Finisher, added: “It’s given us a better shared understanding of what we’re trying to achieve as a business.”

Other participants included Will Westle, co-founder of Crossfell Campers Ltd, a Penrith-based manufacturer specialising in bespoke camper van conversions, Lewis Edwards and Mason Gribbin from Ulverston-based Acrastyle UK, manufacturers of high-voltage sub-station protection and control equipment, and Marcus Carlisle from the St Bees-based Beach Road Bakehouse.

Will Westle said: “As a very small business, most of our ideas and plans had always just lived in my head.

“The course helped me bring more structure to that journey.

“It’s given me tools that I’ll continue to use as we develop the business, whether that’s refining our processes, introducing new technology, or planning the next stage of growth.”

Lewis Edwards said: “My key takeaway is that change can happen at any level of the organisation, not just from senior leadership.

“It’s about individuals taking ownership and playing an active role in driving improvement within the business.”

Ruth Hailwood, Head of Organisation and Workforce Development at Made Smarter, said: “Reaching more than 250 digital leaders is a significant milestone, but what’s most encouraging is how manufacturers are embracing a people-first approach to digital transformation.

“Digital change works best when it’s embraced at every level of the organisation. By empowering strategic leaders and building a network of digital champions, we are creating vital links between leadership and the shopfloor, helping businesses overcome barriers, improve communication, and embed new technologies in ways that deliver lasting benefits.”

LDT is delivered in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Salford, combining workshops, webinars, case studies and site visits to help participants develop a bespoke digitalisation strategy for their business.

LCDC complements this with a bite-sized, blended programme focused on practical implementation, including workshops and a visit to an Amazon fulfilment centre, giving participants first-hand insight into digital technologies in action.

Graduates also join a growing Digital Champions Network, creating opportunities to share insights, collaborate and continue their digital journey.

Since its inception in 2019, Made Smarter has supported more than 2,500 manufacturers in the North West, providing access to expert digital advice, technology adoption roadmaps and workforce development opportunities.

Manufacturers interested in taking part in upcoming programmes can register their interest at here.