Downtown in Business is thrilled to announce that Alison McKenzie-Folan, Chief Executive of Wigan Council, will be one of our keynote speakers at our upcoming Northern Power Towns event on Monday 9th September 2024.
The event, set to be hosted at the Hyatt Regency Manchester, will focus on the opportunities available in the region for driving economic growth, with a focus on regeneration, culture, and community development within the Manchester City Region.
Alison brings a wealth of experience to the discussion. As the Chief Executive of Wigan Council, (named the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Council of the Year in 2019) she has been at the forefront of local government for over a decade. Before her current role, she dedicated more than twenty years to the Civil Service, honing her expertise in public service delivery and strategic management.
In addition to her role at Wigan Council, Alison plays a significant part in broader regional governance as the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) lead Chief Executive for Culture, and an influential figure on several boards. She serves as a Board Member of Solace (Society of Local Authority Chief Executives), where she is the spokesperson on the digital agenda as well as sitting on the Board of Open Data Manchester.
Alison’s dedication to making a tangible difference in residents’ lives is evident in her tireless work and visionary approach to leadership.
Alison’s impact has been widely recognised. She was named in the Northern Power Women Top 50 Power list, celebrating her as one of the most influential female leaders in the region. Additionally, she is listed among the nine most influential digital leaders in Greater Manchester, reflecting her pioneering work in digital innovation and public sector leadership.
At the Northern Power Towns event, Alison will offer her unique insights into how the Manchester City Region can continue to grow and thrive. Drawing on her extensive experience at Wigan Council and her broader work in the GMCA, she will discuss strategies for regeneration, the importance of cultural investment, and the critical role of people in driving sustainable development.
Joining Alison on the panel will be Steven Broomhead, Chief Executive at Warrington Borough Council, who will also share his expertise on regional development and public sector leadership.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the region’s most dynamic and influential leaders as she discusses the future of the Northern Powerhouse.
For further information and to register for this event, please contact alice.evans@downtowninbusiness.com.
