With £6 million in new funding and a bold framework, the Innovation team are building a thriving ecosystem where ideas grow, entrepreneurs thrive, and everyone’s invited to shape the future. Meet the team driving change across the region.
On this page, you’ll meet the people leading this work, hear their stories, and see how their passion is driving change across West Yorkshire.
I came to work for the Combined Authority after the role was recommended to me through a colleague. I also knew somebody here who only had praise for the Combined Authority in terms of teamwork, friendliness, helpfulness and flexibility, which I have now seen first-hand since being here.
I came from a business support background, so the Innovation team was an opportunity to expand on my experience and knowledge.
My job involves providing operational and administrative support and also supporting businesses who are looking for innovation grant support.
Time has flown and I enjoy my work and working in my team who are very supportive. Anything can come up at any time so it keeps you on your toes.
I am learning about grant funding and how this can support businesses in innovation. I have also learnt there is no harm or fear in speaking up and asking for help and reflecting on how things are done and why. I am looking forward to the launch of our new support service and the expansion of our team.
I am responsible for developing our region's innovation policy, meaning that I help shape our priorities to enable more of our people and businesses across West Yorkshire to innovate - whether creating or improving products, services or technologies.
There is a real task ahead to showcase innovation as a sport for all and that anyone can be an innovator - and we're looking at new ways to stimulate an interest in innovation across the region.
I came across the Combined Authority when looking into a career change after 15 years working in the youth sector.
I was seeking a new challenge that would allow me to apply my skills and creativity in a different context and felt being part of the Innovation team provided the perfect opportunity for this.
The innovation projects at the Combined Authority really excited me and the added perks of the MCard (providing free travel across West Yorkshire on bus and rail all year round) and flexible working made the opportunity even more appealing.
My role is to project manage and ensure the smooth delivery of various elements of the innovation business support service to support businesses across our region to achieve growth through innovation.
My experience over the last 4 months at the Combined Authority has been great. The environment is incredibly supportive and inclusive, which has made me feel welcomed and valued. The Combined Authority place a strong focus on professional development which aligns perfectly with my career goals.
Hear from colleagues in other teams across the Combined Authority and find out more about working life by visiting our Life at West Yorkshire Combined Authority page.
