MeetBlackpool, the town’s conference and
exhibition arm, has launched its new ambassador network, which aims to enhance
the destination's status for conferences, conventions, and events.
Designed to harness the expertise, passion, and local knowledge of key
influencers from across Blackpool, the programme will bring together a diverse
community of professionals. The first four ambassadors to be named reflect the
town’s sector strengths including energy, infrastructure construction,
and the creative industries.
The
first MeetBlackpool ambassadors to be announced include:
- Louise Beardmore, CEO, United Utilities
- Nick Gerrard, growth and prosperity programme director, Blackpool Council
- Spencer Phillips, chairman of Showtown
Blackpool and executive committee member of the Royal Variety Charity
- Tony Doyle, head of ICT services, Blackpool
Council
The new programme also acts as a strategic investment in
the economic growth and social prosperity of the town.
Julie Vincent, head of MeetBlackpool, said: “The meetings and
events industry in Blackpool has a positive impact on the local economy. It
stimulates businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retailers, and creates
employment opportunities. The economic and social benefits of this industry
extend beyond the events themselves.
"By
enlisting the support of ambassadors who share our vision for elevating
Blackpool as a dynamic hub for events, we are poised to unlock new
opportunities, activate economic growth, and raise the standards for success as
the town continues to grow from strength to strength."
Ambassadors
participating in the programme will play a role in promoting the town
as a conference destination in their respective fields, as well as leveraging
their networks to foster new business opportunities and gain a spotlight on the
international stage.
Through
the ambassador programme, individuals will be able to nurture local expertise
and enhance the visibility of local businesses and academic institutions to
attract further investment and partnerships, as well as advance their own
educational enrichment and professional development through access to
MeetBlackpool’s support.
Nick Gerrard said: “I am honoured to represent this town
as a MeetBlackpool ambassador, and I am committed to advocating the area’s
continued development as a vibrant events destination and centre for business.
“As ambassadors, we have been presented with an opportunity to showcase our
destination’s unique offering to a global audience and gain acknowledgment as
leaders in our sectors, which will help to enhance the town’s reputation as an
emerging hub for trade and innovation. Together, we're not just shaping events,
we're shaping the future of Blackpool.”
Louise
Beardmore said: “I’m delighted to be an ambassador for MeetBlackpool.
Having held a number of events here in recent years, I have always been
delighted by the warm welcome, first class corporate hospitality, state of the
art facilities and excellent customer service. Blackpool is right at the heart
of the Northwest region we serve, and we are proud to continue to invest in the
town and the local environment while supporting local businesses.”
