The North West has long established itself as one of the fastest growing digital economies in the UK, with the second highest GVA growth and employing over 100,000 people.

To sustain this fast-paced and dynamic growth, the region will need its schools, academic institutions, and existing work force to develop relevant digital skills. This will also ensure the North West continues to be an attractive location for people with the relevant skills to stay in the region to help develop and grow the economy.

Join our lead discussants including Ian Ruff, Policy and Implementation Adviser from New Economy Manchester, who has been also working on developing GM’s digital skills strategy; and Tanya Hemphill from Degree Apprenticeship team at Manchester Metropolitan University.

In this salon we will:

• Discuss the various programme initiatives educators and skills providers are implementing to meet this challenge;
• Hear from businesses about the challenges of hiring and retaining top talent in the North West
• Learn how Academia and Business are trying to join up the dots to ensure there is a vibrant pipeline of digital talent supporting start ups and SMEs based in the region

The places are limited so please register in advance to secure your free seat. The salon will be followed by networking drinks.