A KNUTSFORD business is galloping forward with a new leadership style amid the coronavirus pandemic,

Abbey England, based in Parkgate Industrial Estate, was one of the first businesses to take advantage of a leadership programme that helps business leaders adopt new industrial digital technologies to boost productivity.

Peter Philips, Managing Director or the Haig Road business, took part in the first Made Smarter Leadership Programme, which is run in conjunction with Lancaster University.

He says the experience changed his approach to the new needs of the firm’s workforce and business and has helped him navigate the impact of the pandemic.

Peter explained: “The leadership programme connected me with some like-minded people who have similar challenges.

That relationship has intensified. I have relied on them for support and advice during the pandemic.”

Donna Edwards, from the programme, said: “From the start of the pandemic Made Smarter has been in regular contact with leaders across the region offering support and advice. Our conversations revealed some striking changes in the traditional norms, attitudes and behaviours that guide leaders.

“At the heart of this need for change is technology, which has proved invaluable in allowing manufacturers to work remotely to maintain operations and communications and prompted SMEs to accelerate and broaden their adoption of digital tools.”

For more information visit lancaster.ac.uk/lums/madesmarter