Manifest’s Manchester branch plans significant growth over the next two years.
- The agency aims to triple its Manchester team, focusing on brand services.
- Lauren Preece joins as the new brand services director, bringing expertise from Virgin and BrewDog.
- Preece will work alongside Martin Farrar-Smith to lead global branding efforts.
- Manifest has witnessed exponential growth in its branding services, necessitating this expansion.
Manifest, a renowned branding agency, has announced an ambitious plan to significantly expand its Manchester team over the next two years. The agency intends to increase its Manchester-based brand services team from two to six members, reflecting its robust growth trajectory in recent times.
This expansion is spearheaded by the appointment of Lauren Preece as the brand services director. Preece brings with her a wealth of experience, having held pivotal roles at Virgin and BrewDog. Her previous tenure at Manifest between 2012 and 2015 adds to her familiarity with the agency’s ethos and operations.
Working from Manifest’s London studio, Preece will collaborate closely with the agency’s regional directors across the UK, USA, Sweden, and Australia. Her role will involve coordinating a diverse team of designers, strategists, and researchers to enhance Manifest’s global branding capability.
Co-leading with Martin Farrar-Smith, the longstanding Chief Design Officer, Preece’s responsibility extends to overseeing the agency’s branding operations globally. Together, they will manage brand tracking, strategy, and design, ensuring that Manifest continues to provide cutting-edge brand consultancy services.
Manifest has recently experienced a surge in demand for its unified brand communications services, which encompass brand consultancy, creative services, and campaign delivery. This demand reflects an evolving market where well-integrated and actionable brand strategies are increasingly valued.
According to Alex Myers, Manifest’s Founder and CEO, the escalation in demand underscores the centrality of brand strategy within the agency’s portfolio. Myers highlights the explosive growth seen in this sector, suggesting that Preece’s leadership will further fuel their innovative initiatives and expansion into new creative territories.
Lauren Preece emphasises a holistic approach to brand work, setting Manifest apart in the competitive landscape. The agency’s proprietary methodology not only focuses on brand creation but also ensures practical application across the marketing mix, thereby enhancing communication and marketing effectiveness.
Manifest’s client list is impressive, featuring industry giants such as Diageo, Reckitt, Universal Music Group, and Logitech. This diverse roster benefits from the agency’s comprehensive approach, which consolidates various aspects of brand support under a single agency roof.
The expansion in Manchester is part of a broader strategic initiative, aligning with other leadership appointments within the agency. Recently, Rowena Vithlani was named the new Managing Director for the UK, while Helen Kenny advanced to the position of Chief Operating Officer in January.
Manifest’s strategic expansion highlights its commitment to innovation and leadership in the global branding services sector.
