While still in its early stages, the initiative is being led by Professor Cathy Parker and Professor Steve Millington. Together, they aim to assess how a structured apprenticeship pathway could address the talent and skills gap in the place management sector. The goal is to provide a pipeline of skilled professionals, particularly young people, to support roles in Local Authorities, Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), Destination Marketing Organisations (DMOs), asset managers of public/private spaces, social housing providers, and other anchor institutions such as universities, hospitals, and transport providers.
A new apprenticeship programme would most likely build on the successful Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) framework, combining structured learning with practical, on-the-job experience. This would create opportunities for career progression, from entry-level positions to senior leadership roles, while ensuring that professionals gain the knowledge and confidence to manage and improve places effectively.
IPM’s unique position, housed within Manchester Metropolitan University, provides an ideal platform to develop and deliver such a programme. Focus groups, surveys, and a recent market study funded by a government grant have already indicated significant interest among Local Authorities, BIDs, and other employers.
Initial research has highlighted several key factors:
• Strong Demand: Employers across the sector express a need for a structured pathway to develop place management skills.
• Attracting Talent: Apprenticeships are seen as a valuable tool for bringing in and retaining talent, particularly among younger professionals.
• Unique Expertise: With its networks, credentials, and expertise, Manchester Metropolitan University is well-positioned to lead this initiative, with support from the IPM Professional Network.
A recent independent report, commissioned by Manchester Met, shared with stakeholders earlier this year noted:
“Launching a CMDA pathway in ‘place management’ presents a good opportunity to capitalise on existing content, membership, networks, and credentials, as well as differentiating from competition.”
While the concept of a Place Management Apprenticeship is promising, it forms just one part of IPM’s wider mission to enhance skills in the sector. Current programmes such as the Masters in Place Management, continuing professional development courses, and professional membership accreditation already support experienced practitioners. An apprenticeship programme would complement these by actively targeting individuals at the start of their careers, as well as more experienced professionals who want a formal qualification in place management. The apprenticeship would, therefore, address the dual challenges of attracting fresh talent and enhancing skills.
The next stage involves a comprehensive UK-wide review of the sector’s educational, research, and professional development needs. Starting in the new year, this work—led by Professor Cathy Parker—will evaluate how apprenticeships could fit into a broader strategy for career progression, from entry-level roles to senior leadership.
How to Get Involved
IPM welcomes input from its members, Local Authorities, BIDs, and other employers of place managers and leaders. If you’re interested in participating in a working group to help shape this initiative, please contact Ian Harvey, Head of IPM Professional Network at ipm@mmu.ac.uk .
This research and consultation process will play a vital role in determining whether a Place Management Apprenticeship can be developed to meet the sector’s current and future needs. Together, we can ensure the place management profession is well-equipped to make better places, both now and in the future.