Innovation Programmes Lead

About the Role

Manchester Digital is seeking a knowledgeable and business-savvy Innovation Programmes Lead to steer a diverse range of initiatives that bolster the expansion of Greater Manchester's digital and technology industries. This position demands end-to-end ownership of programmes, from initial design to execution and assessment, collaborating with enterprises, collaborators, financial supporters, and educational institutions to deliver impactful projects.

Main Responsibilities

• Direct programmes through all phases—conceptualization, execution, assessment, and ongoing refinement.
• Formulate detailed project timelines, manage budgeting, and oversee progress reporting.
• Track programme effectiveness and pinpoint areas for enhancement.
• Ensure projects are completed punctually, within budget, and to excellence standards.
• Forge and nurture strong connections with members, employers, partners, funders, and education providers.
• Serve as the principal contact for assigned programmes.
• Represent Manchester Digital at various professional gatherings including meetings, workshops, networking events, and conferences.
• Cultivate partnerships that enhance the delivery and lasting impact of programmes.
• Identify potential sponsorships, funding sources, and partnership prospects.
• Assist in commercial discussions with employers and partners to contribute to financial targets.
• Collaborate across departments to optimize commercial opportunities.
• Lead and assist with organising workshops, networking events, and programme activities, supporting key events such as the Manchester Digital Festival, Conference, and Tech Leaders Talks.
• Guarantee an excellent experience for attendees, partners, and sponsors.
• Maintain precise records and reporting related to programmes.
• Utilize CRM and project management tools efficiently.
• Work actively with Membership, Marketing, and Operations teams to achieve organizational goals.

Candidate Profile

We seek a proactive individual who thrives on taking initiative, forming connections, and delivering results.

• Experience in programme or project management with a proven ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Effective communicator comfortable engaging with businesses and partners.
• Commercially astute with a knack for spotting growth opportunities.
• Organized, adaptable, and solution-oriented.
• Experienced in managing the full lifecycle of programmes, including planning, delivery, evaluation, and improvement.
• Skilled at stakeholder management and partnership development.
• Competent in budget oversight, KPI monitoring, and reporting.
• Familiar with CRM and project management platforms.
• Capable of working autonomously while positively contributing to team efforts.

Preferred qualifications and experience include:

• Background in delivering innovation, skill development, business support, or employer engagement programmes.
• Track record of obtaining sponsorships, partnerships, or external funding.
• Knowledge specific to Greater Manchester’s digital and technology ecosystem.
• Experience organizing conferences, workshops, and networking events.

Why Work with Manchester Digital?

This role offers the chance to influence programmes that support one of the UK's most rapidly growing tech hubs. You will collaborate with ambitious companies, sector leaders, educators, and public agencies to implement initiatives fostering innovation, talent development, and economic growth throughout Greater Manchester.

If you are driven to lead, build meaningful partnerships, and execute impactful programmes, we encourage you to apply.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter, including a detailed description of a programme or project they have managed from inception to completion, highlighting their responsibilities, challenges encountered, and results achieved.