Innovation Manager; Digital Transformation

About The Role

For informal enquiries, please contact Onur Eren, Principal Engineer at

Do you have skills and expertise to help manufacturers with their digital transformation journey? We are looking for an Innovation Manager to join the team!

In this role you will help SME manufacturing clients solve their most pressing problems using the latest digital tools and Industry 4.0 technologies. You will have the opportunity to work with external technology providers and experts within the University.

• Leading digital transformation projects with clients, from undertaking business diagnostics to providing project implementation support, to helping deliver measurable client outcomes.
• Working directly with a wide variety of different manufacturers to assess their processes, helping to define digital goals, and identify practical technology solutions.
• Collaborating with engineering teams to design and deliver proof-of-concept demonstrators and implementation plans for our clients.
• Applying broad knowledge of digital manufacturing technologies including Automation, ERP/MES and AI, and provide expert advice to help shape client strategy and delivery plans.
• Managing project delivery, ensuring milestones, quality standards, and KPIs are achieved.
• Line managing and mentoring engineers, helping to develop their capabilities and ensuring high-quality outputs and deliverables.
• Producing clear project documentation, roadmaps, and funding proposals communicating both technical and business value.
• Leading the preparation of grant and funding applications with clear value propositions and alignment with programme criteria.
• Building strong relationships with clients, technology partners, and funding bodies.
• Supporting the continuous development of WMG’s digital manufacturing offerings and demonstrators.

The ideal candidate will have proven experience and technical understanding in one or more of the following areas:

• AI and its applications in manufacturing
• Automation Systems & Robotics

• IT and OT System Architectures
• Manufacturing Systems (ERP, MRP, MES and PLM)

This is an ideal position for someone ambitious who is looking to develop their Industry 4.0 digital technology and transformation skills to the next level, learning rapidly by doing in quick cycles, outside of a commercial business environment.

You’ll be joining an organisation that encourages and champions personal development and progression and welcomes new ideas and approaches. This is an environment that thrives on the positivity and motivation of the team to help their clients to deliver innovative solutions.

For details on the experience and skills required, please refer to the job description attached as a PDF below.

The Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) is the largest department at the University of Warwick, with over 800 staff and nearly 3,000 students across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in management, technology, and applied engineering.

We are globally recognised for our world-class research, innovative industry partnerships, and teaching excellence, and we are proud holders of the Athena SWAN Silver Award and the Institutional Silver Award. Find out more about the High Value Manufacturing Catapult centre, the Energy Innovation Centre, and our range of undergraduate and apprenticeship degrees here.

We are a world-leading research-intensive university founded in 1965. We are ranked 106th in the world and 8th in the UK. Additionally, 92% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent.

Find out more about us at

• World University Ranking 2024, Guardian University Guide 2025
• Research Excellence Framework 2021

CLOSING DEADLINE:
Thursday 12th February 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time)

To apply, please click "Apply" below and submit an application form by the closing deadline. You will be asked to include a CV and a cover letter.

• Your education and employment history (including your most recent employment).
• Any other relevant experience (e.g. volunteering, extracurricular, etc.).