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Switch Roles Unveiled: The Job Board Changing How Retail Recruits

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Switch Roles Unveiled: The Job Board Changing How Retail Recruits

Retail and hospitality recruitment is being reimagined with the arrival of Switch Roles, a next-generation platform built by those who know the industry inside out. Created by Zac Clements and Danny Monfea of Zachary Daniels, alongside marketing expert Simon Childs of Childsey, Switch Roles is a fresh take on hiring—developed by retailers, for retailers.

The founders draw on their deep roots in the industry—ranging from managing retail powerhouses like IKEA and BHS to launching recruitment and digital marketing firms. Their practical experience has been poured into Switch Roles to ensure it caters to the sector’s specific hiring needs.

Where Talent Meets Opportunity

Switch Roles is built around people. It connects motivated job seekers with rewarding roles at leading brands, curating listings so users don’t have to sift through irrelevant options. It’s recruitment with purpose and precision.

Trusted by the Best in Retail

The platform has already partnered with renowned names including Hugo Boss, Burger King, Lidl, Footasylum, Matalan and American Golf. With 3,500+ job openings at launch, it’s proving that focused, sector-specific platforms have real value for top brands and ambitious talent.

Designed for the Way People Search

Job hunting can be an overwhelming experience. Switch Roles removes the noise by offering a smooth, easy-to-navigate interface that helps users discover roles that match their skills, interests and location—all without the usual headache.

Fuelled by First-Hand Experience

With a hands-on approach and real passion for retail, Zac, Danny, and Simon have crafted something more than just a job board. Switch Roles has already gained the backing of more than 50 investors from retail, recruitment and e-commerce, signalling strong support for its people-first vision.

Danny Monfea (left), Simon Childs (centre) and Zac Clements (right)

Founders’ Insights

Zac Clements, Co-founder of Switch Roles and Zachary Daniels:

“After managing at IKEA and building up my recruitment experience at Hays and Michael Page, I noticed a real disconnect between retail employers and job seekers. Co-founding Zachary Daniels gave me the chance to start changing that, but with Switch Roles, we’re going even further. We’re creating a platform that really understands the ins and outs of retail, helping employers and candidates find the right fit – without all the hassle.”
Danny Monfea, Co-founder of Switch Roles and Zachary Daniels:

“My journey began in loss prevention roles at Woolworths and BHS, giving me a deep understanding of retail operations. Transitioning into retail recruitment in 2007, I led teams at Randstad and Hays, I then led teams at 260 Talent before co-founding Zachary Daniels in 2011. With Switch Roles, we’re addressing the specific challenges of retail hiring, offering a fair, transparent, and community-driven platform that benefits both employers and job seekers.”
Simon Childs, Founder of Childsey and Co-founder of Switch Roles:

“Starting as an intern at the Theo Paphitis Retail Group and rising to the management board at Ryman over eight years, I gained invaluable insights into retail’s commercial landscape. Launching my marketing agency, Childsey, in 2020, I combined my retail experience with marketing and digital innovation. With Switch Roles, we’re leveraging this blend to create a user-friendly platform that not only connects talent with opportunity but also fosters a vibrant community for retail professionals.”

Why Switch Roles Stands Out

  • Retail-Focused: Exclusively tailored to the retail sector, providing a targeted, efficient solution for job seekers and employers alike.​
  • User-Friendly: Built with simplicity and accessibility in mind, making the job search process smooth and enjoyable.​
  • Leading Brands: Partnerships with top UK retailers ensure a wealth of quality opportunities for job seekers.​
  • Community: Beyond being a job board, Switch Roles aspires to build a vibrant community for retail professionals, offering career advice and industry insights.​

Supporting the Future of UK Retail

Switch Roles is more than just a platform; it’s a movement to support and sustain the thriving UK retail sector. By connecting the right people with the right roles, Switch Roles aims to contribute to the industry’s continued growth and success. Whether you’re a job seeker or an employer, Switch Roles is your partner in navigating the ever-evolving world of retail recruitment.​

For more information, visit www.switchroles.com.

Free Middlewood Locks Fest returns for a second year

Helen Greaney
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Free Middlewood Locks Fest returns for a second year

The second annual canal-side festival at the award-winning Middlewood Locks neighbourhood in Salford is returning next month with fun-packed programme for all the family.

From 2pm – 10pm on Saturday, May 10, crowds can enjoy a daytime market, children’s interactive workshops, face painting, live music with performances from The Ski Band and others, a pop-up pub and street food vendors, water-based activities, as well as a spectacular fire display at dusk.

Key highlights will include a giant Canadian goose puppet celebrating the abundance of waterside wildlife at Middlewood Locks, and a unique speaking and listening bike, recording stories about memories of the canal.

Street food vendors will include Taka Taka Mama, Gingers Ice Cream Emporium and Adams & Rose Bar.

The Makers market will be back bringing together local makers, artisans, performers and creators selling a range of beautiful products such as jewellery, plants, artwork, clothes and produce.

The Canal & River Trust will also be hosting explorer’s activities for families, and children from the local St Philip’s CE Primary School have been working with artists to make decorative items for the event which will be displayed amongst the trees within the landscaping.

Visitors will be able to jump on board rafted canoes for water-based activities and a live DJ set with mesmerising fire and sound installation will provide for a fabulous sunset finale.

The festival is being made possible through sponsorship from Scarborough Group International, the developer and custodian of Middlewood Locks, and Get Living, the build-to-rent operator. Produced in collaboration with the outdoor events production team at Walk the Plank, the event is also supported by Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal Society and Canal & River Trust with funding from GMCA.

Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett, who will officially launch the event, said: “I am thrilled to be able to attend Middlewood Locks Fest and kick off proceedings this year. The event is a fantastic example of community engagement with a day packed with fun things to do for all the family and the local community.

“We are grateful to SGI and all organisations for their support in making this an annual event for the people of Salford and we truly hope that it continues for many years to come.”

Further details for Middlewood Fest can be found at:  Middlewood-locks.co.uk

Cellcycle and Kerry Logistics Partner to Strengthen Sustainable Battery Supply Chain in the UK

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Cellcycle and Kerry Logistics Partner to Strengthen Sustainable Battery Supply Chain in the UK

UK-based battery recycling expert Cellcycle, part of the SER Group, has signed a Mutual Cooperation Agreement with Kerry Logistics (UK), a member of the global Kerry Logistics Network. This partnership aims to enhance battery logistics and recycling solutions across the UK and internationally, with a focus on high-growth sectors such as electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.

This collaboration is set to improve operational efficiency in battery logistics, engineering, and environmental management.

Together with its sister firm Cellstorage, Cellcycle will join forces with Kerry Logistics to identify and develop new opportunities across the battery value chain. From global freight and warehousing to maintenance, compliance, and lifecycle services, the partnership will combine expertise to offer end-to-end solutions for businesses working with lithium batteries. Kerry Logistics’ strength in multimodal transport and customs handling will be key to scaling these services effectively.

A Timely Response to Market Growth and Environmental Demand

With the rise of the electric mobility and clean energy sectors, the need for a secure, robust, and environmentally sound battery supply chain has become more pressing. The agreement between Cellcycle and Kerry Logistics seeks to tackle these growing demands by improving sustainability, safety, and compliance within battery logistics and recycling operations.

By fusing Cellcycle’s battery-specific technical knowledge with Kerry Logistics’ global reach and logistics infrastructure, the partnership offers a complete service platform for clients needing transport, handling, or end-of-life management for batteries.

Driving Sustainable Innovation Through Collaboration

A key priority for the partnership is advancing sustainable practices. Cellcycle is at the forefront of developing advanced biotechnological recycling techniques aimed at recovering valuable battery materials. Through this cooperation, those innovations will be supported by Kerry Logistics’ extensive global logistics network, promoting greater efficiency and reduced waste.

“The future of battery logistics requires expertise, efficiency, and a commitment to sustainability,” said Dave Tattersall, Commercial Director at Cellcycle.

“By joining forces with Kerry Logistics, we can provide a complete solution for businesses handling batteries, whether it’s storage, transport, compliance, or end-of-life management.”

Ian Dodsworth, Financial Director at Kerry Logistics, also stated:

“We are excited to collaborate with Cellcycle to strengthen the infrastructure supporting the growing battery market. Our logistics expertise, combined with Cellcycle’s deep industry knowledge, will provide businesses with innovative, reliable, and sustainable battery supply chain solutions.”

A Joint Vision for Long-Term Growth

This agreement marks the beginning of a sustained partnership aimed at delivering a more resilient and responsible battery supply chain. By pooling their expertise, Cellcycle and Kerry Logistics are well-positioned to support businesses through the increasingly complex challenges of the battery sector and to contribute meaningfully to a cleaner, more circular economy.

FREESMO Rallies to Support Ex-Smokers Ahead of the Disposable Vape Ban with Golden Ticket Campaign

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FREESMO Rallies to Support Ex-Smokers Ahead of the Disposable Vape Ban with Golden Ticket Campaign

As the UK prepares for the nationwide ban on disposable vapes coming into force on 1st June 2025, FREESMO is stepping up to support ex-smokers with the launch of a Golden Ticket campaign designed to keep people smoke-free.

Built by people who care, trusted by people ready to change, FREESMO has built its reputation on one simple mission: helping smokers ditch cigarettes for life. Now, with the disposable vape ban fast approaching, FREESMO is taking action to ensure that former smokers don’t return to cigarettes out of confusion or convenience.

Running until 1st June, the Golden Ticket campaign is all about celebrating and supporting the smoke-free movement. All first-time buyers spending £10 or more at FREESMO.co.uk will be entered into a weekly prize draw to win one of twenty Golden Tickets. Each Golden Ticket awards its recipient with a £100 Amazon voucher.

The campaign will run in the lead-up to the disposable ban with prize opportunities updated regularly throughout to include unbeatable discounts and unrivalled multibuy deals. While the prize pool is generous, the message behind the campaign is even more significant: FREESMO is here to support your smoke-free journey, even as the vape landscape shifts.

“The disposable ban will leave many people scrambling for alternatives, and we refuse to let that confusion push anyone back to smoking,” said Georgi Keckarovski. “That’s why we’re launching this campaign — to guide people through the transition, and make sure no one is left behind.”

The upcoming ban — aimed at reducing youth vaping and protecting the environment — will make it illegal to sell or supply disposable vapes in the UK, both online and in shops. While the environmental and public health goals are clear, thousands of adult ex-smokers who rely on disposables to stay smoke-free could be left at risk of relapse.

FREESMO’s expert team of smoke-free product specialists is ready to help. Through its Smoke-Free Questionnaire, FREESMO offers free, personalised product recommendations tailored to each user’s needs — drawing on a wide range of smoke-free alternatives from top brands.

“We’re not here to push one product — we’re here to find the most effective option to help each individual stop smoking,” added Georgi. “For many, disposables were just the start of their smoke-free journey. Now, it’s time to take the next step. From nicotine pouches to nicotine-free vapes, FREESMO can support all disposable users in staying smoke free.”

Visit FREESMO for further help and support in transitioning to a smoke-free lifestyle.

St George’s Day parade returns to Manchester

Helen Greaney
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St George’s Day parade returns to Manchester
The St George’s Day Parade, a beloved fixture in Manchester’s event calendar for nearly two decades, returns on April 27 with its vibrant celebration of England’s rich heritage and community spirit.
Originating from a grassroots organisation, this event has grown to become a popular, family-friendly celebration that showcases the diverse and eclectic idea of what it means to be English.

The parade aims to celebrate the nation’s spirit and the country’s achievements, particularly those that embody fairness, community, equality, and hard work.

This year’s parade will start from Varley Street at 12 noon. To note, although the Manchester Marathon is being held the same day, the two events are not expected to impact each other.

The parade will commence at Varley Street, turning left onto Oldham Road (southbound only), and will travel towards the city, crossing over Great Ancoats Street to Oldham Street.

It will then turn left on Piccadilly, left on Newton Street, left on Dale Street, right on Lever Street, left on Great Ancoats, right on Oldham (northbound only), right on Butler Street, left on Bradford Road, and finally left back to Varley Street.

The parade will feature performers on decorated floats. As in previous years, a cavalcade of up to 300 mopeds will join the parade for part of the route, along with a regal Queen Victoria in a royal carriage, a blue dragon towering at 7ft and an array of community groups across Manchester.

The parade is expected to take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the route.

The event is managed by the St George’s Day Committee with support from Manchester City Council and other partner agencies.

Councillor Pat Karney said: “I’m thrilled to see the return of the St George’s Day Parade in our incredible city which serves as a reminder and reflection of our proud heritage. This is a day for families, friends and neighbours to come together to celebrate the true meaning of community.

“The parade will be a colourful display of Manchester and our nation’s history, a reminder of our achievements and a proud celebration of our shared, diverse nation. I look forward to seeing thousands of Mancunians come together and I hope to see you there.”

Thelma McGrail, chair of the St George’s Day organising committee, said:  “Manchester’s St George’s Day Parade, celebrating England’s Patron Saint, has been an annual event for the last 19 years, this being the 20th. The parade itself is abundant in diversity, growing each year, uniting all communities. The event receives a huge amount of support before and on the day of the parade with hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators.”

Proposed road closure timings

  • Depart Varley Street at 12.00 – Arrive Varley Street 14.15
  • Varley St from Ridgeway St to Oldham Rd 09.00 – 16.00
  • Oldham Rd from Varley St to Grt Ancoats 12.00 – 14.30
  • GrtAncoats St from Oldham Rd to Newton St 12.30 – 12.45
  • (Hold Traffic) • Oldham St from Grt Ancoats to Piccadilly 12.30 – 14.00
  • Piccadilly from Oldham St to Newton St 12.30 – 14.00
  • Newton St from Piccadilly to Grt Ancoats 12.30 – 14.00
  • Dale St from Oldham Rd to Newton St 12.30 – 14.00
  • Lever St from Dale to Great Ancoats Street 12.30 – 14.00
  • Great Ancoats St from Lever St to Oldham Rd 13.30 – 13.45
  • (Hold Traffic) • Oldham Rd from Grt Ancoats St to Butler St 12.30 – 14.00
  • Butler St from Oldham St to Bradford Rd 12.30 – 14.30
  • Bradford Rd from Butler St to Varley St 12.30 – 14.30

Police appeal following serious assault in Bramhall

Helen Greaney
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Police appeal following serious assault in Bramhall
Detectives are seeking the public’s help with enquires after a serious assault took place in a bar in Stockport.
Sometime around 12.40am on April 19, the victim, a man in his 20’s, was out with friends on Bramhall Lane South and was assaulted using glass causing serious injuries to his face.
Detective sergeant Kirsty Price, of Stockport CID said: “This is a serious assault and what looks to be an unprovoked attack on a young man. He is currently in hospital recovering from his serious injuries.
“We are really keen to speak to anyone who was around the area late last night who may have witnessed this assault, we have released CCTV images of two men (pictured) who we would like to speak to as they may be able to assist with our enquiries.
“We know the bar where the incident occurred was quite bust last night, so we know there may be people out there who witnessed the incident who are yet to come forward and speak to us.
“If you have any information, CCTV or mobile footage please come forward as speak to us as our investigative enquiries continue.
“Contact Stockport CID on 0161 856 9790, quoting incident number 172 of 19/4/25. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Street Eat festival returns to Rochdale in June

Helen Greaney
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Street Eat festival returns to Rochdale in June

Street Eat – the food and drink festival that attracts thousands of visitors every year – is returning to Rochdale Town Hall Square for another serving of food, drink, free entertainment and live music on Saturday, June 21.

Organised by Rochdale Business Improvement District (BID) during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, Street Eat brings together local food and drink establishments.

Visitors will have their taste buds tickled and thirsts quenched as well as enjoying lots of free live music. Tasty food from local restaurant chefs will be on the menu, with dozens of mouth-watering dishes served up including, Italian, Indian, English, American and more.

There will be free activities and rides for children, bars for the adults and a music stage serving up hours of fun for all ages.

BID manager Paul Ambrose who organises the event said Street Eat showcases the vibrant and high-quality food and drink the town has to offer as well as being a great day out: “It’s a fantastic event, giving us the opportunity to champion the very best local food and drink.

“Street Eat is always a great day, bringing friends and families together, celebrating our vibrant town centre eateries and showing what a foodie hotspot the town is. We do all we can to make the event as affordable as possible too and entry is free.”

The line-up of traders for this summer’s edition is yet to be confirmed but will include include Bombay Away, Vicolo Del Vino, The Flying Horse Hotel, The Baum, Masons Creations, Bank Top Farm, Treehouse Bar and many more.

Councillor Sue Smith said: “It’s great to see Street Eat returning during our year as town of culture and it will be fantastic to see the square come alive again with food, fun and community spirit!”

Ben Boothman, consultant to The Flying Horse Hotel added: “Our team loves this event and are looking forward to it returning. With traders serving up smaller portions it means you can sample dishes from different venues and experience amazing food on the menu served up here in the town centre. We’re pleased to be working alongside Rochdale BID again to celebrate the area’s great food and drink offer.”

The entertainment and music line-up will be announced in May.

 

 

New public square unveiled in Gorton town centre

Helen Greaney
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New public square unveiled in Gorton town centre
A new public square is now formally open, providing a new heart and focal point for the Gorton neighbourhood, while supporting the ongoing success of the existing Gorton Market.
The new square is located off Garratt Way between the market and Tesco superstore, which has seen the conversion of part of the underused car park into a people-first space for the whole community.

The square has been designed following consultation with local people and community groups to create a splash of colour, a multi-functional space with new trees and plants, plenty of seats and space to host events and activities for children. Aa relaxing space for local people and visitors to eat and spend time.

Key features include a flexible space that can host events and pop-up gatherings, a raised market terrace area with seating for people to relax and an upgraded, outdoor trading space for Gorton Market.

Visitors will benefit from a new nature area with significant planting to screen the square from Garratt Way and introduce biodiversity. There is also an imaginative interactive play features for young people with light projections to animate the space.

Improved and safer walking and cycling routes to and through the local area are also included.

The project was funded by the UK Government. The square was built by Warden Construction.

This investment is part of the wider ambition for Gorton, set out in the Development Framework for the neighbourhood, and complements other investment in the local area, including the opening of the Gorton Hub community space in 2022.

The longer-term regeneration proposals for this part of Gorton include hundreds of new mixed tenure homes housing, including significant affordable homes, that will be built on council-owned land overlooking the new square.

Council leader Bev Craig said:  “We are investing in our local communities across the city because we know how important Manchester’s high streets are to the people they serve. This isn’t just about accessing services easily – like health care and shops – this is also about creating pride in our local spaces and neighbourhoods our residents want to live in.

“We know that Manchester people want to live in welcoming, clean and green communities that support businesses, create jobs and provide opportunities for new affordable housing.

“This is what we’re doing in Gorton, Moston Lane, Withington high street and Wythenshawe town centre – and we have our sights set on other district centres, such as Newton Heath in north Manchester, for future investment that will continue our ongoing commitment to investing in the things our local communities want and need.”

Ian Williams, managing director at Warden Construction, said: “Warden Construction is incredibly proud to have played a key role in bringing this vibrant new public square to life for the people of Gorton.

“Seeing this underused space transformed into a welcoming heart for the community, one that complements the existing market and offers opportunities for connection and enjoyment for all ages, is truly rewarding. We believe this thoughtfully designed square will be a cornerstone of Gorton’s ongoing regeneration, and we look forward to seeing it thrive.”

Detective convicted of sexual offences is dismissed

Helen Greaney
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Detective convicted of sexual offences is dismissed
Greater Manchester Police have dismissed detective sergeant Richard Mills and barred him from policing at an Accelerated Misconduct Hearing.
Mills was sentenced to 18 months in prison after he was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault by a jury verdict in December last year.
The convictions involved two incidents of forceful sexual touching in 2016 and 2020. In both cases, Mills grabbed his co-worker’s hand and forced them to touch his genitals over his trousers.
His offending occurred when he was based in GMP’s Oldham District and in the Serious Crime Directorate at Nexus House.

Detectives within the Professional Standards Directorate began investigating Mills in 2016 following a report from a member of staff.

He later made inappropriate comments of a sexual nature in an open working environment within earshot of several colleagues, sparking numerous complaints.

Following this incident, 37 police officers or staff who worked alongside Mills, were asked for testimonies, and significant evidence was gathered to support criminal proceedings.

In addition to the offences Mills was convicted, there were numerous other allegations made against him that amounted to breaches of GMP’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Behaviour.

Detective superintendent David Jones said: “Our investigation into DS Mills uncovered alarming circumstances, whereby he preyed on women in the workplace who were simply just trying to do their jobs.

“Mills sexually assaulted his colleagues, made inappropriate remarks of a sexual nature, and acted in a disgraceful manner. He abused his position in the force and the trust of his colleagues for his own perverse gratification.

“Mill’s actions continue to have an adverse impact on many of our staff and officers who have been offered specialist support.

“Irrespective of Mills inevitably being dismissed, given he is rightly currently serving a prison sentence as a convicted sex offender, it was important we still hold these proceedings to ensure he is not only dismissed from GMP but also placed on the barred list. Mills will never work in law enforcement again.

“It is our hope today’s outcome provided closure to those who may have been seeking it, as well as reassurance that when allegations are raised, they will be thoroughly investigated and outcomes pursued.

“The actions of Mill’s are reprehensible, and there is no place for him in policing.

“We are committed to upholding the highest professional standards, and our dedicated team investigating internal matters are working tenaciously to root out offenders like Mills, who are interfering with the safety of our workplaces and unworthy of serving the public as part of Greater Manchester Police.”

University of Manchester ranks in top 5 universities for spinout generation

Helen Greaney
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University of Manchester ranks in top 5 universities for spinout generation

The University of Manchester has been ranked the fourth highest academic institution for the total number of spinout companies generated in the Spotlight on Spinouts 2025 report.

Between 2011 and January of this year, 114 spinout companies were tracked for The University of Manchester in data produced by the Royal Academy of Engineering and Beauhurst.

There has been a significant rise (32.6%) in the number of Manchester spinouts since the last report, jumping from 86 to 114. Eight additions were due to the revised HESA definition of what constitutes a spinout.

The University’s Technology Transfer Office, The University of Manchester Innovation Factory, has been at the forefront of spinout generation at the University, helping to bring ideas to life by licensing intellectual property (IP) and making an impact on industry.

Catherine Headley, CEO of the Innovation Factory, said: “With many years of experience delivering commercialisation from The University of Manchester’s research and intellectual property, we are proud to play a key role in the University’s impressive ranking as a top-tier institution for spinout generation.

“The Innovation Factory is excited to build on the success of the more than 100 existing spinout companies we have created from the University’s academic research, driving further innovation and impact for the region and beyond.”

The report highlighted how the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Oxford, Cambridge and London, the UK’s research and development (R&D) cluster, accounts for 27.7% of the total spinout population.

The University of Manchester fell just behind Imperial College London (132) for number of spinouts, with the University of Cambridge (175) and University of Oxford (225) taking the second and first spots respectively.

The report also highlighted the top sectors by number of spinouts, with pharmaceuticals (399), data provision and analysis (282) and electronics hardware (269) making up the top three. The highest emerging sectors in this report include artificial intelligence (214), software-as-a-service (180) and CleanTech (169).

In keeping with Manchester’s innovation drive, the University of Manchester recently established its new innovation capability, Unit M, to connect and catalyse the innovation ecosystem in Manchester and the wider region.

By making the University’s world-class research, innovation assets and talent more accessible to all, Unit M is attracting and growing innovation-intensive businesses in the region. It is designed to address all aspects of the innovation challenge – from R&D and innovation adoption through to talent and skills – creating an economy that creates good jobs, higher pay, and improved productivity, alongside supporting and nurturing spinout talent.

Professor Lou Cordwell OBE, CEO of Unit M, said: “The University of Manchester has long been the innovation engine of the city, making it no surprise that it has ranked so highly for spinout generation.

“This stellar track record has paved the way for Unit M to drive a more inclusive model of innovation-led growth, bridging the gap with other participants in the innovation economy. This outward facing ethos will make the innovation assets and talents of the University more accessible to all – enabling Manchester to fulfil its economic potential and supercharge growth both regionally and nationally.”

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