Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, is making significant strides in technology integration to bolster the region’s digital presence.
Within just 60 days of his tenure, Burnham demonstrated his commitment to technology by establishing a major digital summit in Manchester, setting the stage for future growth.
Andy Burnham’s early actions as mayor reflect his dedication to the tech sector by hosting an influential digital summit, which gathered industry leaders to discuss key topics.
This event was not merely a conference; it laid the groundwork for Manchester’s ambitious tech strategy, integrating insights from workshops and discussions to inform future objectives.
Burnham envisions Manchester as the UK’s top tech city, comparable to its famous football clubs competing at the highest levels.
He challenges local businesses to collaborate actively, shaping a plan that aims to elevate the entire digital landscape.
By prioritising tech, he acknowledges its critical role as an enabler across all sectors.
Burnham, despite admitting limited personal tech-savviness, insists on re-education, reflecting a willingness to adapt, notably influenced by his children.
This open-mindedness resonates with Manchester’s ethos of continuous improvement and adaptability to emerging technological changes.
Acknowledging the fragmented nature of the tech sector, Burnham launched a £2m digital skills fund to enhance workforce capabilities.
He stresses the importance of structured development to enable smaller tech entities to collaborate effectively.
These investments aim to create a robust ecosystem capable of competing on larger platforms.
Greater Manchester hosts several prominent tech firms, from established names like the BBC and The Co-op to innovative players like UKFast.
The region’s digital economy is driven by over 62,000 jobs and boasts a digital GVA of £2.8bn, reflecting substantial economic contributions.
Manchester also offers competitive average salaries in tech, highlighting the sector’s growing appeal.
Burnham draws analogies between Manchester’s tech ambitions and its sporting prowess, emphasising the city’s aspirational culture.
He encourages a relentless pursuit of excellence, much like sports teams striving for championship victories, urging the tech sector to adopt such a mindset.
Burnham has committed to maintaining momentum with a subsequent digital conference planned for December.
His strategies emphasise long-term growth and the establishment of Manchester as a premier tech hub not just in the UK, but across Europe.
Andy Burnham’s leadership marks a transformative period for Manchester, driven by a collaborative approach and visionary strategies in digital expansion.
Through consistent investment and community engagement, the city is poised to become a powerhouse in the European tech landscape.