At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with manufacturing clients to enhance their digital transformation journey.
- Company: Join Oxford Innovation Advice, a dynamic company driving innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on SMEs while developing your skills in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in business support or employer engagement; degree-level education preferred.
- Other info: Applications close on 16 May 2025; apply early as we may close the vacancy sooner.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 65000 £ per year.
This role is home based although travel will be required in the East of England.
Salary: From £52,000.00, dependant upon skills and experience.
Primary Job Purpose
The purpose is to engage with manufacturing clients, and account manage a portfolio of eligible and suitable SMEs on a digital adoption programme in the East of England, across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Essex and Hertfordshire (although not exhaustive). The Digital Manufacturing Adviser will be the point of contact for SME manufacturing clients and will manage the relationship between the business and all aspects of the programme as well as a range of internal and external business support services.
Main Areas of Responsibility
- To carry out a factory tour of the client’s premises to assess the business competencies against digital transformation and to support with recommendations to engage them on an improved digital journey by boosting their awareness of the benefits of IDT adoption, by completing an onsite digital road map.
- Provide advice and guidance on how IDT adoption can deliver real business benefit and intensively assist SME manufacturers by providing independent specialist expertise.
- To assist clients in completing a structured digital diagnostic assessment, deliver a full report, assess the business readiness in line with PAS1040:2019 guidance.
- Support clients through their interactions with the programme to raise awareness of the suite of support available to them, including identifying clients suited to ‘Leading Digital Transformation Leadership Training’ for SME business leaders to boost skill levels across the region and to develop the skills of existing workforce by giving SME access to specialist expertise.
- To identify clients that would benefit from more intensive technical support, and identify local specialists aligned to the business need, via the initial implementation plan.
- Identify and support clients with relevant capital expenditure grant applications to ensure they meet funding eligibility criteria and are ready for a panel.
- Increase regional engagement with manufacturers by signposting those manufacturing businesses who are not yet ready for digital adoption to more traditional forms of business support available in East of England.
- To deliver elements of the East of England programme to produce the maximum impact in terms of assisting client companies to reach their full growth potential, and adoption of appropriate digital industrial technology to deliver improved productivity and GVA growth.
- Lead digital awareness workshops for businesses using appropriate tools to identify issues and opportunities for clients on the journey to digital technology adoption supporting them in the development and delivery of roadmap and associated action plan.
About You
Knowledge and Experience:
- Experience in business support or employer engagement (minimum 5 years, or demonstrated equivalent skills).
- Senior management experience in manufacturing is advantageous.
- Experience in business development with IDT adoption.
- Experience in delivering business assessments and advice.
- Teamwork experience across a broad geographical area.
- Account management experience in manufacturing/engineering.
- Technical knowledge of IDT.
- Understanding of the IDT supplier network and technology demonstrators.
- Familiarity with local and national organisations supporting business growth.
- Customer-focused approach to SME engagement and growth.
Essential Skills:
- Strong presentation, communication, and networking skills.
- Excellent planning, organisational, and project management abilities.
- Ability to quickly assess business culture and its potential barriers to adoption.
Personal Style:
- Team player and self-starter.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Innovative mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and client outcomes.
Qualifications:
Degree-level business education or equivalent qualification/experience in management.
About Us
Oxford Innovation Advice is a fast-growing company focused on innovation and mutual respect, delivering strong results in a dynamic work environment. Part of SQW Group, we also offer flexible office spaces for tech start-ups, angel investment networks, co-investment fund management, and consultancy services across the UK, Europe, and Asia. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
Our closing date for applications is 16 May 2025. We may close the vacancy once we've received enough applications, so we encourage early submission.
Digital Manufacturing Adviser employer: OI Advice
Contact Detail:
OI Advice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Digital Manufacturing Adviser
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the manufacturing sector, especially those involved in digital transformation. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential clients and gain insights into their needs.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific digital industrial technologies (IDT) relevant to SMEs in the East of England. This knowledge will help you engage more effectively with clients and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss case studies or examples of successful digital adoption in manufacturing. This will showcase your understanding of the benefits and challenges faced by SMEs in their digital journey.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the local support networks and funding opportunities available for SMEs in the East of England. Being knowledgeable about these resources will position you as a valuable advisor to potential clients.
We think you need these skills to ace Digital Manufacturing Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in business support, employer engagement, and manufacturing. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in digital transformation and account management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities of the Digital Manufacturing Adviser role. Explain how your background aligns with their needs, particularly your experience with IDT adoption and client engagement.
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, emphasise your strong presentation, communication, and project management skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with SMEs and facilitated digital adoption in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Mention your degree-level business education or equivalent qualifications. If you have any certifications related to digital technology or business development, be sure to include those as well.
How to prepare for a job interview at OI Advice
✨Research the Company and Role
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research Oxford Innovation Advice and understand their mission, values, and the specifics of the Digital Manufacturing Adviser role. This will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest in the position.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and experience in business support or employer engagement. Prepare examples from your past work where you've successfully managed client relationships or facilitated digital transformation.
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Since the role requires a strong understanding of IDT, be ready to discuss your technical knowledge and how it can benefit SMEs. Highlight any relevant experience you have with digital technology adoption and how you've helped businesses improve their processes.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a Digital Manufacturing Adviser, you'll need excellent communication skills. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be prepared to explain complex concepts in a way that is easy for clients to understand, showcasing your ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.