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12:15 Registration and Light Lunch
13:00 Welcome from our Host
Gamal Fahnbulleh, Broadcaster and Journalist
13:10 Keynote Address
Cllr Craig will outline Manchester’s role in driving growth for the creative industries.
Cllr. Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council
13:20 The View from the North
How does the world look from outside the M25? Our panel of journalists will explore how the North is reporting – and being impacted by – the major issues shaping our times. From the case for devolution to questions of fairness, media representation, and the legacy of centralised decision-making exposed during the pandemic, this session will examine why the North’s perspective matters more than ever.
13:50 Advertising Pays 2025
Credos, Advertising’s think tank, will launch the latest edition in its Advertising Pays series at LEAD North. Ad Pays 2025 will feature fresh research, data and insights evidencing advertising’s economic impact and its evolving role in the UK economy. This session will present the key findings from the report, followed by a panel discussion.
14:30 Scaling Up: How Media Owners Can Drive SME Growth
What is the role of media owners in supporting SMEs on their growth journeys? Industry leaders will discuss whether media owners have a responsibility to help SMEs scale, the initiatives currently available, and what more can be done to ensure SMEs can effectively leverage media for success.
15:00 The North: A Global Powerhouse of Creativity
The North of England has long been a hub of creative talent, but what does it need to sustain and grow? Our panel of industry leaders will explore the key ingredients for success, from talent development and investment in media to innovation and adapting to new consumer trends – while also exploring the role of intermediaries.
15:30 Refreshment Break
16:00 The Influencer Effect: Trust, Creativity & Brand Success
In an age where authenticity drives engagement, influencer marketing is more powerful than ever. But what does it take to build a strong, trusted relationship between creators and brands? In this candid conversation, TikTok sensation Em Wallbank will share her experiences working with brands, the importance of creative freedom, and how influencers can deliver real impact when given the space to be themselves.
16:25 Opening Doors: Nurturing Talent and Driving Social Mobility
Ash Schofield will share insights from his career journey and the lessons that shapes his leadership. Ash will explore the inspiration behind launching giffgaff’s Software Engineer Academy and discuss the importance of nurturing young talent, driving social mobility, and creating pathways for the next generation of leaders.
16:55 How the Media Industry of Manchester is Leading the Way in Unlocking Young Talent
Robin Wight, CVO, CBE, Ideas Foundation
17:05 Wrap up
Suzanne Costello, Events Director, Advertising Association
17:15 End of Event, followed by Networking Drinks Reception
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