Innovation Programmes Lead

About the Role

Manchester Digital seeks an experienced and commercially savvy Innovation Programmes Lead to oversee a range of initiatives designed to promote growth within Greater Manchester's digital and technology sectors. The role involves full ownership of programmes from initial concept through to delivery, evaluation, and ongoing enhancement, collaborating with businesses, partners, funders, and educational institutions to create meaningful, impactful projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage programmes through all stages, including planning, execution, evaluation, and improvement.
• Create and maintain project plans, supervise timelines, budgets, and reporting processes.
• Monitor programme success, identifying and implementing improvements.
• Ensure delivery meets quality standards, timelines, and budget constraints.
• Build and nurture relationships with employers, members, partners, funders, and education providers.
• Act as the primary contact for assigned programmes and represent the organization at meetings, workshops, events, and conferences.
• Develop partnerships to enhance programme reach and sustainability.
• Identify and secure sponsorships, funding, and partnerships to support programme growth and organizational goals.
• Support employer engagement and commercial discussions to meet income and surplus targets.
• Lead and assist in organizing workshops, networking events, and programme activities, including flagship events like Manchester Digital Festival and Tech Leaders Talks.
• Ensure positive experiences for delegates, partners, and sponsors through effective coordination.
• Maintain accurate records and reporting via CRM and project management tools.
• Collaborate across departments including Membership, Marketing, and Operations to advance organisational objectives.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is proactive, solutions-oriented, and enjoys taking initiative, building strong relationships, and driving projects forward. Essential qualities include:

• Strong experience in programme or project management.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Confident communication skills for engaging with businesses and partners.
• Commercial awareness to identify growth opportunities.
• Adaptability and a positive, proactive approach.

Essential Experience

• Proven track record of managing programmes or projects across their full lifecycle including planning, delivery, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
• Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders and fostering robust partnerships.
• Competent in budgeting, reporting, and tracking KPIs.
• Strong communication and presentation capabilities.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and project management tools.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.

Preferred Experience

• Background in delivering innovation, skills development, business support, or employer engagement initiatives.
• Successful experience obtaining sponsorships, partnerships, or external funding.
• Knowledge of the Greater Manchester digital and technology landscape.
• Experience organizing conferences, workshops, or networking events.

Why Join Manchester Digital?

This role offers the chance to influence critical programmes that support one of the UK’s most rapidly expanding technology ecosystems. You will engage with ambitious companies, industry leaders, educators, and public sector stakeholders to execute projects that impact innovation, skills, and economic development in Greater Manchester.

Application Instructions

When applying, please submit your CV and cover letter along with a detailed example of a programme or project you have personally overseen from start to finish, highlighting your role, challenges encountered, and results achieved.