Cumbrian digital leader graduates from Made Smarter programme
A Cumbrian manufacturing leader is among a new generation armed with new digital skills and tools after graduating from a trailblazing North West programme.
Oliver Harbidge, head of digital development at Playdale Playgrounds in Haverthwaite in South Cumbria, is one of 15 delegates who completed the Leading Digital Transformation programme, designed by Made Smarter, the Government-funded industry-led initiative to increase technology adoption among SME manufacturers, and Manchester Metropolitan University.
Delivered via 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, the funded programme empowers participants to create a bespoke digitalisation strategy for their business.
It also provides them with a set of practical tools to make the most of opportunities that digital transformation can offer and access further support from Made Smarter, including funding for new technology and specialist advisers.
So far, 75 digital leaders have been supported over the past four years through the inaugural Made Smarter leadership programme and more recently, Leading Digital Transformation, which is now recruiting for its next cohort of businesses.
Manufacturers across the North West are now being encouraged to register their interest for the next intake, starting in early September 2023.
H&H Group appoints new health and safety manager
H&H Group has appointed Mark Panczak as their new health, safety and welfare manager.
Based at the H&H head office in Carlisle, Mark will deliver strategic health and safety management systems and processes across the group’s business portfolio – which includes farmstock auctions, chartered surveying, estate agents, insurance brokers and marketing agency.
Richard Rankin, the H&H chief executive, said: “This is a key appointment for the group’s continued development and we’re confident that the positive impact Mark will make will be enormous.
“He has an excellent track record of bringing a fresh, practical approach to what is often perceived simply as a regulatory duty.”
Mark joins H&H Group from Arla Foods where he was responsible for the health and safety management of 250 employees at the company’s Lockerbie headquarters.
Mark, 32, said: “My role is principally to develop the most effective systems and procedures to ensure compliance, and to deliver the best training and education to help everybody understand how they play their part in this process.”
New chair for Cumberland Society of Chartered Accountants
A senior accountant from Carlisle-based firm Dodd & Co has been appointed as the new chair of Cumberland Society of Chartered Accountants.
Tony Ferguson has been with Dodd & Co since 2005, currently leading the firm’s small business start-up team, and regularly shares his knowledge as a speaker at events with the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, the University of Cumbria and is an expert in residence for BIPC Cumbria.
The Cumberland Society of Chartered Accountants is part of the Northern Society of Chartered Accountants, which represents 4,000 members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants.
Tony said: “I am really looking forward to contributing to the society’s work and working with my colleagues and members to support the accountancy profession in our region.”
