Manchester Digital is delighted to announce the appointment of Rachel Tsang and Ben Davies to its board of directors, as approved by the membership at the Member Conference on Thursday 22nd June 2023.
This addition to the board further strengthens Manchester Digital's commitment to supporting its members and driving growth within Greater Manchester’s digital and tech community.
Rachel Tsang, currently deputy director for identity operations at the Government Digital Service, as part of One Login for Government, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role on the board. Prior to her current role, Rachel was a deputy director for GOV.UK at GDS, enabling support on a range of critical national priorities including C-19, and Brexit. Rachel has held a number of digital, programme delivery, policy and strategy roles across government including at HM Treasury, Department for Education, Ministry of Justice and Department for Work and Pensions. Rachel is also the senior sponsor for the GDS Women's Network and holds a PhD from the London School of Economics.
Ben Davies, group marketing director at award-winning tech and life sciences focused VC Praetura Ventures, will add a valuable perspective to the board with his extensive experience in the funding space. Ben oversees all aspects of Praetura’s marketing output and strategy, whilst also working closely with their portfolio companies. Previously, Ben headed up the marketing for Social Chain’s media division and also co-founded the alternative coffee shop and co-working space, Ziferblat UK.
Both Rachel and Ben have made significant contributions to Greater Manchester’s digital community and have a great enthusiasm for the work Manchester Digital does on behalf of the sector. Their expertise and insights will play an important role in shaping Manchester Digital's strategic direction over the coming months and ensuring that the organisation continues to champion diversity, talent development and digital innovation.
Katie Gallagher, managing director at Manchester Digital, said, “We’re pleased to welcome Rachel and Ben to our board. This is an exciting time for Manchester Digital as we continue to grow the organisation, while the tech industry evolves at a fast-pace. Rachel and Ben will provide invaluable guidance and insight from their varied experience in the tech industry to drive forward our work in the North West.”
On her hopes for Manchester Digital, Rachel said: "Manchester Digital plays a huge role in connecting different organisations, championing digital skills and tackling barriers to inclusion. As the sector continues to grow in the region, so does Manchester Digital’s potential significance and impact in these areas. I’m really looking forward to being part of the team and excited about what’s next."
Ben said: "I’ve admired Manchester Digital for a long time and supported with events in a previous role. Having worked with similar organisations, Manchester Digital’s reputation within the public and private sector has always been exceptional and I’d love to be part of the story. Whilst I didn’t grow up here, I’d proudly say I’ve been adopted by this city and want to contribute to its future."
Alison Ross, chair of Manchester Digital’s board and chief people and operations director at Auto Trader, said: “Both Rachel and Ben bring with them very strong skill sets and multiple strengths to complement our existing board members, so we’re very pleased to welcome them to the board. They’re both very committed to supporting and growing our tech and digital eco-system at a very exciting time for the tech industry. They will also give invaluable support to our wide programme of events and initiatives to grow diversity and inclusion within the tech industry, as well as shaping and influencing policy.”
Read our interview with Rachel here.
Read our interview with Ben here.
Rachel and Ben join the following existing board members:
- Alison Ross, Auto Trader (chair)
- Tom Amies-Cull, Dentsu Aegis (vice chair)
- Katie Gallagher, Manchester Digital (managing director)
- Shaun Fensom (secretary)
- Hilary Stephenson, Nexer Digital
- Paul Bason, Manchester Metropolitan University
- James Wilkinson, Zuto
