AN independent industry-led body called the Makers Alliance has been created to drive a strategic development of the north's advanced manufacturing sector, one of the priority clusters identified in the Department for Economy’s 10X economic vision document.
Sir Michael Ryan, general manager of Spirit AeroSystems in Belfast, will chair the alliance, which will encourage the sector to embrace innovation, drive growth and support a more sustainable, competitive and lower carbon manufacturing industry.
Manufacturing sector veterans Mark Nodder and Mark Huddleston have been appointed joint chief executives for 12 months.
Economy minister Paul Frew said: “Northern Ireland’s advanced manufacturing sector has been at the heart of our economy for many years, and the Makers Alliance will work closely with key stakeholders including Manufacturing NI, universities, further education colleges and councils to address the needs of industry.
“Its focus will be to accelerate innovation, digitalisation and the green agenda within manufacturing. It will also play an important role in supporting the development of a single, unified vision for the sector which will integrate with national strategies and ensure Northern Ireland's manufacturing sector remains strong and globally competitive.”
The Makers Alliance will act as an independent body, supported by Invest NI, which is providing £197,200 of support towards its establishment.
Invest NI chair Rose Mary Stalker said: “At this pivotal moment, it is essential our advanced manufacturing community is directly involved in setting the transformation strategy for this sector which is critical to our economy.
“I'm delighted to have secured such outstanding leaders for the Makers Alliance to champion the innovation, growth opportunities and skills development needed to achieve our 10X ambition.”
The joint CEOs said: “The manufacturing sector needs to work collectively to address both the opportunities and challenges which exist. The Makers Alliance will represent the sector to ensure that Northern Ireland has a voice locally, nationally and internationally.
“Our first priority will be to engage with national partners, develop sector action plans, capability road maps and support the sector to capitalise on the wide range of advanced manufacturing opportunities within City and Growth deals.
“We look forward to starting and would encourage businesses and stakeholders to engage with us and support our ambitions so we can ensure Northern Ireland’s advanced manufacturing sector continues to grow globally and remain competitive.”
