Meet the team
Meet the team
The team at Manchester Central have together gained a wealth of experience in the events industry, so clients can be confident that when they select Manchester Central for their event, they will be working with the best team in the business. Everyone connected with the venue is committed to providing the highest standard of customer care so that event organisers can relax in the knowledge that their event is in ‘safe hands’.
Lesley Tomlinson, Chief Executive
Formerly with KPMG and the Halle and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestras, Lesley has led the venue through recent significant changes, including the rebrand to Manchester Central in 2007 and the ongoing redevelopment plans.
Paula Lorimer, Sales Director
With a strong background in media and exhibition sales, Paula joined the venue in 2007 and has led the Sales team through a period of rapid growth and business development.
Dirk Pittaway, Operations Director
Dirk's background heading up major projects in the construction industry lends itself well to his role leading the operational service delivery teams at Manchester Central.
David Mallard, Project Director
David has been at the venue for over 20 years and has worked within a variety of key operational positions. His current focus is delivering the final stage of the £28.5m redevelopment of the venue.
Karen Jameson, Head of Facilities Management
Formerly a Chief Inspector with Greater Manchester Police, Karen joined the company in 2008 to advise on security planning for major events. Since then she has also taken on responsibility for venue stewarding arrangements and reception services.
Rodger Owen, Head of Special Projects
Having spent over twenty years experience in senior management roles in professional services and retail , Rodger joined Manchester Central in 2007 to manage the financial and computer services activities.
Lucy Pittey , Senior Event Manager
A university Event Management graduate who previously worked at the Barbican Centre, Lucy is responsible for managing large scale events as well as leading the rest of the team alongside Simon Ashton.
Simon Ashton, Senior Event Manager
Simon joined the team as a venue event planner in 2005 after spending a number of years working on large scale European sports, lifestyle and music events. He has since gained invaluable experience working with some of the UKs highest profile conferences and exhibitions.
Event Managers
Craig BeardallCarol MarshCarol MacInnesNicky Yorke
Sales Executives
Chris Martin - Special Event and Exhibition Sales
Emily Mathew - National Association Sales
Lisa Carter - International Sales
Nikki Corcoran - Corporate & Banqueting Sales
Service Co-Ordinators
Rob Duxbury
Mike Archer
Everyone connected with the venue is committed to providing the highest standard of customer care so that event organisers can relax in the knowledge that their event is in ‘safe hands’.