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For Companies 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 a competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on SMEs while working in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in business support or employer engagement; degree-level education preferred.
- Other info: Home-based role with travel across East England; applications close on 16 May 2025.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 72800 £ per year.
Location: 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
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in digital industrial technology (IDT) and how they apply to manufacturing. This knowledge will not only help you engage effectively with clients but also demonstrate your expertise during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with local manufacturing businesses and industry professionals in the East of England. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to build relationships and gain insights into the specific challenges SMEs face regarding digital adoption.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your experience in account management and business development. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've successfully guided clients through digital transformation processes, as this will be crucial in demonstrating your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Understand the funding landscape for SMEs in the East of England. Familiarise yourself with available grants and support programmes, as this knowledge will enable you to provide valuable assistance to clients looking to adopt digital technologies.
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, account management, and digital transformation. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in engaging with SMEs and delivering business assessments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for digital manufacturing and how your background aligns with the role. Mention your understanding of IDT adoption and how you can help clients navigate their digital journey.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise your strong presentation, communication, and networking skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with clients and facilitated workshops or training sessions.
Highlight Your Knowledge of the Region: Mention your familiarity with the East of England and any previous experience working with local businesses. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with clients and understand their unique challenges.
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
Given the nature of the role, be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you've successfully engaged with SMEs or led digital transformation initiatives. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Highlight your understanding of Industrial Digital Technologies (IDT) and how they can benefit manufacturing clients. Be prepared to discuss recent trends in digital adoption and how you can assist clients in navigating these changes.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As a Digital Manufacturing Adviser, you'll need excellent communication skills. Practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely, and be ready to showcase your presentation skills, especially if asked to lead a mock workshop during the interview.
