Manchester Digital is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Hannah Holmes to our board directors. Hannah brings deep expertise in higher education leadership, skills development and inclusive economic growth.
We caught up with Hannah to find out a bit more about her journey into digital and tech and her hopes for the future of Manchester Digital.
Could you share with us why you decided to apply to join the Manchester Digital board?
I decided to apply because Manchester Digital plays a uniquely important role in convening the region’s digital and technology ecosystem at a time when collaboration really matters. My work has always focused on the intersection between skills, innovation and inclusive economic growth, and Manchester Digital brings those strands together in a very practical, industry-led way.
I was particularly drawn to Manchester Digital’s commitment to initiatives such as Digital Her, its leadership on digital skills, and its role as a trusted voice for the sector. Joining the Board felt like an opportunity to contribute strategically while supporting an organisation that is already delivering real impact for businesses and communities across Greater Manchester.
Could you tell us a bit about your background and experience in the digital and tech industry?
My background spans higher education leadership, skills development, innovation and business engagement, all closely connected to the digital and technology sector. As Dean of the Business School and Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor for Business and Law at Manchester Metropolitan University, I lead a large organisation with extensive links to digital and tech employers, startups and scaleups across the region.
A core part of my role involves working with industry to ensure that education and skills provision reflects the rapidly changing needs of digital businesses. This includes supporting digital innovation, entrepreneurship and transformation through applied research, student talent pipelines and business engagement programmes that have helped thousands of organisations grow and innovate.
Alongside this, I bring governance experience from board and trustee roles, giving me a strong understanding of how organisations like Manchester Digital can remain sustainable, influential and member-focused.
What specific skills or view points do you hope to bring to the Manchester Digital board and how will this support Manchester Digital’s objectives?
I hope to bring a strategic, evidence-informed approach shaped by experience of leading large organisations and working across sectors.
In particular, I bring a strong understanding of the skills and talent pipeline and how education, industry and policy can work together to address current and future digital skills needs. I also bring experience in governance and strategic oversight, including constructive challenge, financial scrutiny and long-term planning, which supports strong and sustainable organisational leadership.
Alongside this, I have a clear commitment to inclusion and representation, aligned with initiatives such as Digital Her. I believe that widening participation in digital careers and supporting diverse leadership strengthens the sector and drives innovation. Together, these perspectives support Manchester Digital’s objectives around business growth, talent development and shaping a thriving digital economy.
What are your hopes and aspirations for Manchester Digital as a board member?
My aspiration is for Manchester Digital to continue strengthening its position as the leading voice for the region’s digital and technology sector while broadening its reach and impact for members.
I would like to see Manchester Digital further develop its leadership on digital skills, helping to shape pathways into the sector and respond to emerging areas such as AI, data and cyber. I am also keen to support work that deepens collaboration and innovation across the ecosystem, ensuring that startups, scaleups and established organisations can learn from one another and access the support they need to grow.
As a Board member, I hope to contribute to a clear and ambitious strategy that enables Manchester Digital to champion inclusive growth and ensure the region continues to thrive as a digital hub.
In your opinion, what are some of the key challenges that the digital sector in Greater Manchester is facing and how do you see Manchester Digital addressing these challenges and maximising opportunities for the membership?
One of the most pressing challenges facing the digital sector is the availability, diversity and retention of digital talent. Demand for skills continues to grow, while too many people still face barriers to accessing digital careers.
There is also a challenge around sustaining growth and innovation, particularly for smaller businesses navigating rapid technological change and economic uncertainty.
Manchester Digital is well placed to address these challenges by acting as a connector and advocate. Through its skills initiatives, inclusive programmes such as Digital Her, and its strong member networks, it can bring businesses, educators and policymakers together, influence strategy and create opportunities that help members maximise growth and innovation.
Why do you think organisations like Manchester Digital are particularly important right now?
At a time of rapid technological change and shifting skills needs, organisations like Manchester Digital play a vital role in supporting collaboration and shared learning across the sector.
Manchester Digital provides a trusted platform for businesses to connect, influence policy and navigate change collectively. It also helps ensure that the growth of the digital economy is inclusive and sustainable, with opportunity spread across communities. Right now, that collective voice and convening role are more important than ever.
Finally, outside of your work experience are you able to tell us an interesting fact about yourself?
Outside of work, I’m gradually becoming a swim mum. My eight-year-old daughter has recently become more involved in swimming with Warrington Warriors, so a lot of my spare time is now spent poolside at training sessions and swim meets. It’s been a whole new world to learn, and a reminder of how much commitment sits behind young people’s development.
Thank you Hannah!
