Marketing Manchester appoints new Managing Director

Victoria Braddock has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Marketing Manchester, the official place promotion agency for Greater Manchester.

The promotion follows over 20 years of service at Marketing Manchester, where she started in the Visitor Information Centre and has since held several positions, including Brand Development Manager, Head of Marketing, and most recently as Director of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing.

As part of The Growth Company, Victoria will lead Marketing Manchester as the Destination Management Organisation for Greater Manchester, which includes the brands Visit Manchester, Manchester Convention Bureau and Sports Bidding Unit, and the Manchester Invest Partnership; focused on raising the profile of the city-region nationally and internationally as a place to visit, meet, study, and invest.

During her time at Marketing Manchester, Victoria has supported the growth of the city-region and its position as the UK’s global gateway to the North; navigated the difficulties of the pandemic; and has developed major campaigns and initiatives to take Greater Manchester to the world.

Alongside her work at Marketing Manchester, Victoria is also a trustee of Empower Youth Zones and member of the Regional Advisory Group for the National Trust in the North.

Victoria Braddock said: “I am delighted to move into this role at a pivotal time of growth for both Marketing Manchester and Greater Manchester as a destination. For over 20 years I have been passionate about promoting this city-region and have relished seeing it grow in strength over the years.

“The coming years will be filled with opportunities to take our work to a wider national and international audience, and I’m excited to set out my vision and work with my fantastic colleagues, partners and stakeholders to showcase the region as a leading destination.”

Mark Hughes, Group Chief Executive of The Growth Company, said: “Victoria is a proud, people-first leader who is passionate about Greater Manchester, and will bring a wealth of experience to the role spanning over 20 years at Marketing Manchester. I am delighted to welcome her appointment and look forward to the continued and many successes that will follow under her leadership.”

Victoria’s appointment follows an extensive external recruitment process after the resignation of Sheona Southern, who will leave Marketing Manchester in late November after eight years as Managing Director.