Technology Adoption Specialist - London in Cray

Made Smarter is a Department for Business and Trade (DBT) funded programme designed to boost productivity, growth, and efficiency in manufacturing SMEs through the adoption of Industrial Digital Technologies (IDTs). Launched in 2019 in the North-West of England, the programme has successfully expanded to five other UK regions and will launch in London in April 2025, delivered by London & Partners (L&P) within the Small Business Directorate.

Purpose of the role

The Technology Adoption Specialist will support manufacturing and engineering SMEs across London to transform their businesses through the adoption of Industrial Digital Technologies (IDTs). Acting as the main point of contact for clients, the TAS will develop bespoke IDT transformation roadmaps, provide specialist advice, and manage relationships with relevant SME sector networks. The TAS will operate all across London to deliver workshops for SMEs supported through the programme, and will work from the L&P main office as well as remotely.

Key Tasks

• Client Engagement & Relationship Management
  • Act as the primary contact for SMEs participating in the Made Smarter London Adoption Programme.
  • Build strong relationships with clients and understand their business needs and challenges.
  • Each TAS will manage a portfolio of around 30+ London-based SME manufacturers over the lifetime of the programme.
• Technology Advisory & Roadmap Development
  • Assess client readiness for digital transformation and identify suitable IDTs.
  • Develop tailored technology adoption roadmaps to support business growth and efficiency.
  • Work with the Programme management team to identify businesses that are suitable for support offered by Made Smarter and London and Partners.
  • Deliver specialist advice on digital technologies and their implementation.
  • Through knowledge gained in road mapping, support the Programme Manager to develop targeted interventions for London Manufacturers.
• Outreach & Networking
  • Proactively engage with small manufacturing and engineering businesses across London in order to promote the programme and encourage registrations of relevant SMEs.
  • Represent the programme at industry events and liaise with SME sector networks, to increase visibility of the programme and impact we deliver, and building collaborative relationships to support programme delivery.
• Project Delivery & Monitoring
  • Coordinate site visits and remote consultations to ensure successful implementation.
  • Monitor progress against agreed transformation plans and provide ongoing support.
  • Track engagements and activities with clients in our CRM system, maintaining up to date records for impact tracking and funder reporting.
  • Assist our marketing resources in the development of good quality case studies.
  • Work with our course providers to ensure course content is relevant to clients' needs.
  • Maintain a high level of awareness of new technology developments and understanding of their industrial application.

You’ll have/bring Experience

• Proven experience in advising or implementing IDT technology solutions within manufacturing or engineering sectors.
• Track record of working with SMEs and understanding their operational challenges.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management.
• Evidence of working with senior management in manufacturing and/or other sectors with product/service/process design and development expertise.
• Expertise in product/service/process design and development from conception through to commercialisation.
• Practical experience diagnosing business needs and agreeing effective strategic action plans for applying digital technologies to improve productivity, develop improved products and services.
• Understanding and experience of project management techniques.
• Proven experience working with businesses to achieve outcomes such as increased productivity, enhanced competitiveness, and improved sustainability.

Essential Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of Industrial Digital Technologies (IDTs) such as Data Analytics, Product or Process Modelling and Simulation, Augmented or Virtual Reality (AR/VR), Systems Integration, Additive Manufacturing, Cybersecurity, Sensor Technology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Knowledge of digital transformation principles and their application in manufacturing and engineering SMEs.
• Degree or equivalent qualification in engineering, manufacturing, digital technology, or related field, or the relevant business experience to match.
• Experience in delivering training or workshops on digital technologies or similar improvement processes.
• Familiarity with government-funded programmes or business support initiatives (desirable).
• Knowledge of sustainability and green manufacturing practices (desirable).

Essential Skills:

• Strong written and oral presentation abilities.
• Excellent communication and networking skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels.
• Ability to explain complex technical concepts in simple terms.
• Strong planning, organisational, administrative, and project management skills.
• Well-developed IT skills, including tools for remote collaboration, spreadsheets, diary management, email systems, and CRM databases.

You’ll Get

• Competitive Salary: We value your contributions and ensure you are rewarded accordingly.
• Learning & Development Opportunities: Continuous growth is at the heart of our culture, with ample opportunities for professional development.
• Strong Culture of Belonging: We foster an inclusive environment where every team member feels valued and supported.
• Various Networks for Staff: Connect with like-minded colleagues through our numerous staff networks.
• Competitive Pension Scheme: Secure your future with our robust pension plan.
• Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network within your chosen field.
• Geopolitical Insights: Gain unique perspectives on global economic and political trends.
• Hybrid Working Arrangement: Enjoy the flexibility of working both remotely and in-office.
• WorkFlex: Take advantage of opportunities to work abroad and experience different cultures.

London's diversity is its biggest asset. At London & Partners, we aim to ensure our workforce reflects the diversity of the city that we promote. We encourage applications from people of any age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or assignment, faith or disability. We also appreciate that many people require flexibility in their working patterns and encourage you to talk to us at interview about any flexibility you may need, be it full-time, job-share, or part-time. We encourage applications from all sections of the community.

Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure our teams can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.