Skills, Innovation & Inclusion in Atom Valley
Atom Valley, Manchester’s Mayoral Development Zone will be a vast, well-connected innovation cluster, bringing world-class research, manufacturing and materials together to shape the future and level up communities. It is defining the future: a vast, dynamic and interconnected region blending innovative world-class businesses with groundbreaking research.
It's vital we explore how local communities, especially young people in places like Rochdale, can access the skills and opportunities this transformation will bring. What’s the pathway from primary school to high-quality jobs in Atom Valley? Are businesses engaged in outreach? How strong are the links with Manchester's local universities, and how do we retain not just homegrown, but international talent here in the North West?
AGENDA
12.00-12.30: Arrival, registration, lunch & networking
12.30-12.45: Atom Valley update
12.45-13.45: Panel session with Q&A
13.45-14.00: Networking & depart
Supported by our Innovation programme, join us as we bring these questions to light.
About the Speakers:
Sarah has 25 years’ experience of senior and strategic leadership in Higher Education, at the interface between Higher Education and regional institutions with a focus on economic regeneration and inclusive growth. Throughout her career and across different locations she has focused on leveraging private sector, public sector and Higher Education resources for societal advancement—increasing productivity, enhancing social mobility, and driving sustainable growth in South Yorkshire, East Midlands and currently in Greater Manchester, with a particular focus on Rochdale. Sarah has been with Unit M since its inception – previously she held roles as Pro Vice Chancellor (Civic Engagement and Enterprise) at Nottingham Trent University and Director (Partnerships and Regional Engagement) at The University of Sheffield.
Holly joined the GM Business Growth Hub as Network Manager in December 2023, to build impactful referral and support networks for Innovative Greater Manchester Businesses looking to commercialise. She has a Biomedical Sciences Degree from the University of Manchester and a passion for improving talent, work and life in Greater Manchester. She is skilled at programme management and building effective partnerships. Most recently she worked in the innovation team at Bruntwood SciTech to develop a programme of events and networks to support the growth of life sciences businesses at Alderley Park and Manchester Science Park. She previously managed the Transpennine regional contract for the STEM Ambassador hub, working with private sector organisations, charities and education providers to link STEM industry volunteers with young people from schools and community groups across Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire, to inspire interest in STEM industries and develop employability skills of young people. Additionally she has experience of working directly in the cultural and higher education sectors.
Ben is the group marketing director for Praetura Group. As part of the wider group, Praetura Ventures is an award-winning tech and life sciences focused VC, born-and-bred in the North of England. Praised for its early backing of northern success stories such as Peak, XR Games and Culture Shift, the Manchester-based VC has now become known for its ‘more than money’ approach to supporting early-stage founders post investment. Before Praetura, he headed up the marketing for Social Chain’s media division around the time of its IPO. Ben also co-founded the alternative co-working and event space Ziferblat UK.
Interested In The Event?
If you’re interested in attending, you can book online here.
For any further enquires about this event, contact [email protected]
