Tony, CEO and founder of Code Computerlove, was appointed as the new Chair of Manchester Digital at the association's Council meeting earlier this week (Wednesday 19th).

Tony takes over from Shaun Fensom who has been in the chair for nine years. Shaun - who proposed Tony for the new chair - will remain closely involved with the organisation as Secretary and Director In Charge of the Big Chip Awards and other activities. Tony takes over at a crucial point in Manchester Digital's development as activity is stepped up and with membership growing faster than ever.

First involved with Manchester Digital in 2003, Tony has long since been a champion of the sector and region's needs. Recently as councilmember he led the organisation’s Education Group behind the highly successful TalentSummit. 

Commenting on his appointment as Chair, Tony said, “I've seen Manchester Digital develop through many phases and I'm honoured to be given the opportunity to take the organisation through another step-change in its evolution."

Foggett continued:"The digital community up here has always been incredibly strong and developments such as Media City are opening new opportunities for our members. The spotlight has been turned on us and now is our chance to make this city and region famous for its digital excellence.

“Being a volunteer run organisation our problem has historically been one of finding the resource to deliver against our ambition.

“The fact that Manchester Digital was formed from and is run by the digital community means we are in a unique position to represent and broker relationships with the industry, especially at a time when the disappearance of government funded sector bodies such as the NWDA and Vision + Media has left a void insupport.

“Our delivery role will continue to ensure members have everything they need to thrive, whether it be talent development, insight or simply profile and networking opportunities. But if we are to step up our output for members then we need to build on the work Shaun has started, to move Manchester Digital away from a volunteer reliant organisation. I hope I can bring the commercial focus to help with the transition into a sustainable commercial entity."

Shaun Fensom added: "I think Tony will make a great Chair and look forward to working with him as Manchester Digital goes through the next exciting phase. My change of role will free me up to focus on new areas of Manchester Digital activity ensuring, for example, that Manchester Digital businesses gain maximum benefit from the new investment in digital infrastructure."