Member Spotlight: Wayne Bennett, Founder, Made4Tech Global

Introduce yourself:

I’m Wayne Bennett, founder of Made4Tech Global and a recent TEDx speaker. With 30 years in tech recruitment, I specialise in placing interim and permanent technology talent across the UK, Europe, and the US. My TEDx talk – “The Beliefs We Inherit and Never Question Become Our Limitations” – explored my journey of breaking generational patterns, which deeply informs how I approach business: championing inclusion, and creating opportunities for underrepresented talent, particularly women, Black professionals, and neurodivergent individuals in technology.

Career highlight:

Placing many women in tech roles since founding Made4Tech Global, more than many agencies do in a decade, whilst maintaining an 80% client retention rate. It’s proof that prioritising inclusion and finding the best talent aren’t mutually exclusive; they’re the same thing.

Name three words that describe your personality:

Resilient, empathetic, and driven

What’s the best thing about pro-manchester?

The genuine connections and collaborative spirit. Pro-Manchester brings together people who want to lift each other and make a real difference in the city – it’s networking with purpose.

What are your priorities for 2026?

Growing Made4Tech Global whilst helping the ecosystem for entrepreneurs become smoother and more accessible for business and funding. I hope REG Connect 2026 will go some way to doing that. Also looking to expand next year on speaking on several topics, from career challenges to mental well-being. Also, a few workshops with organisations to help them retain diverse talent and build inclusive, neurodivergent-friendly cultures. And personally, continuing to share my story to inspire others to question the beliefs holding them back.

What do you think are the most important things going on in Manchester at the moment?

The tech sector’s growth and Manchester’s position as a leading hub for innovation. But equally important is ensuring that growth is inclusive – that we’re creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented communities in Moss Side, Hulme, and beyond. Manchester’s strength has always been its people; we need to make sure everyone benefits.

Favourite meeting place in Manchester?

Campfield site – new hub for entrepreneurs and Barclays Eagle Labs, and it is a mix of entrepreneurship and technology/Cybersecurity.

Are there any particular types of businesses that you would like to meet?

Tech companies (scale-ups and medium-sized organisations) are looking for interim or permanent talent in architecture, cybersecurity, project management, and IT leadership. Also, HR leaders and DEI champions who want to build more inclusive teams, and anyone interested in innovative networking technology or supporting neurodivergent professionals. Companies that are looking for ways to inspire their teams and leadership to overcome challenges.