Programme Manager - Startups

Manchester Digital is a leading, not for profit, tech trade body based in Manchester, dedicated to fostering growth and collaboration within the regional digital and technology ecosystem. With a commitment to driving innovation and economic development, we provide a platform for digital and tech employers to connect, learn, collaborate and thrive.

This will be a very hands-on role, and requires a highly motivated and experienced programme manager to take responsibility for overseeing the entire lifecycle of our different programmes, from conception to delivery, ensuring the successful growth and development of participating organisations. 

Who would be a good fit for this role? 

Ideally you will: 

• Come from a strong background in project or programme management, ideally with experience in leading initiatives within the technology sector.
  
  
• Possess a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by early-stage tech startups and be familiar with the intricacies of launching and scaling a tech business, as well as having a good knowledge of the resources and support mechanisms available to them.
  
  
• Be comfortable operating in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, with a willingness to take calculated risks and explore creative solutions to challenges.
  
  
• Possess strong leadership qualities and the ability to inspire and motivate others towards common goals. You should be comfortable in leading teams, delegating tasks, and driving results through collaboration and teamwork.
  
  
• Have a strong, strategic mindset and be comfortable in identifying opportunities for growth and innovation, as well as anticipating and mitigating potential challenges.
  
  
• Be familiar with the Greater Manchester startup ecosystem and local resources and networks. This includes an understanding of the region's economic landscape, key players, and support organisations.
  
  

What will be your responsibilities? 

Overall, a successful candidate for this role would be someone who is passionate about supporting the digital and tech sector, possesses strong leadership and project management skills, and is committed to making a positive impact on the local community.

As part of this role, your key responsibilities will include:

• Project Planning and Delivery: Developing and executing a comprehensive project plans, including defining key milestones, deliverables, and resource requirements. You will ensure effective implementation of the plan to achieve programme objectives within set timelines.
  
  
• Stakeholder Management: Coordinating and liaising with various stakeholders, including startups, mentors, investors, local authorities, and community partners. You will build strong relationships and ensure alignment towards programme goals, fostering collaboration and engagement.
  
  
• Event Coordination and Facilitation: Organising and facilitating workshops, seminars, networking events, and celebration days to facilitate knowledge sharing, skill development, and community building.
  
  
• Progress Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitoring and evaluating the progress of programme participants, tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess their growth and impact. You will identify areas for improvement to enhance programme effectiveness and outcomes.
  
  
• Reporting and Communication: Preparing regular progress reports for both our SMT and funders that highlights key achievements, challenges, and opportunities. You will communicate effectively to ensure transparency and alignment on programme performance and priorities.
  
  
• Budget Management: Managing the programme budget effectively, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and on target financial performance. You will be responsible for monitoring expenses, tracking financial performance, and identifying opportunities for cost savings and/or additional revenue generation to maximise our programme impact and delivery. 

What is on offer? 

The role offers a competitive salary (£28k - 35k DOE) plus:

• 25 days holiday per year
• Quarterly team activities 
• Workplace pension
• Hybrid/flexible working
• Target led bonus

Our team currently work Monday to Friday, 9am - 5:30pm and Friday 9am - 5pm, but there may be an occasional need to support or represent Manchester Digital at early morning or evening events. 

Our flexible working policy incorporates two fixed days working from our Manchester office (Tuesday and Thursday) with the flexibility to be able to work remotely on the other 3 days.

How to apply? 

Please email your CV and a covering letter to careers@manchesterdigital.com 

The Manchester Digital application process will consist of 3 stages:

• Stage 1: An initial review of your application against our role criteria. In addition to sending us your CV, we kindly ask you to send us a motivation letter telling us what excites you about this position.  We will not consider applications where our full application process has not been followed.
  
  
• Stage 2: A competency based interview

• Stage 3: A final stage interview