Introducing...Neil

Tell us how you got started in the digital/creative/tech space... 

Computers have been a part of my life since the early 1980's when I first taught myself BASIC programming on something called a 'VIC 20'. 

My fascination has taken me down many different roads, and I've had a variety of roles in the sector, both in the UK and overseas. 

I never get bored, and I believe that now we are living in one of the most exciting periods of history.  

The best and most successful companies are never too proud to admit their own weaknesses

What’s your current role and what do you enjoy most about it? 

I feel very lucky to work with some of Manchester's most innovative digital companies as a growth coach.

It's inspiring to feel their passion, see their technical ability, and most of all, engage with the incredible teams they create. 

I'm always listening and learning, and it's great to bring something to a project which may have been overlooked, and then, engage with the Business Growth Hub network to resolve the problem together and make a difference. 

Why Manchester? 

Despite the potholes, never ending roadworks, and the rain, there's a real buzz happening in Manchester right now. Everyone's making connections, helping each other, and there's a real optimism about the place. It's a good place to be. 

What’s one big thing you’ve learned about what it takes to grow a business? 

The Devil is in the detail. 

It's one thing to have an idea, but it takes careful management to harness that idea and develop it into a fully commercial product or service. 

The best and most successful companies are never too proud to admit their own weaknesses and use the knowledge networks available to them to achieve their goals. 

What’s the piece of advice you find yourself giving most often? 

I don’t really have any clever one liners, but I'm a prolific list maker.  

Prioritise what needs to be done, and then just grind it out!  

I feel very lucky to work with some of Manchester's most innovative digital companies

Best book you’ve read in the last year and why? 

As a guitarist, I recently read Django Reinhardt by Charles Delaunay. 

It's the story of the legendary Jazz guitarist and the book is full of anecdotes about his character and incredible musical gift.  

One album and/or podcast we all need to have in our lives? 

I'd like to say that my own tunes aren't too shabby(!) but trying to come up with a favourite is almost impossible.  

However, Decade by Neil Young takes some beating.  

Most looking forward to about Greater Connected? 

I'm looking forward to watching some of Manchester's best talent bounce off each other. Where will it lead...?