MIDAS appoints managing director
Joe Manning has joined the Greater Manchester inward investment agency from his position as deputy chief executive at Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership.
Manning brings more than 10 years of experience in marketing and business engagement to the role of managing director for MIDAS. Previously held positions include deputy director for both the government’s Cities and Local Growth Unit, and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
Manning has replaced MIDAS’ former chief executive Tim Newns as the head of the organisation. Newns left the company in September for a director role at the Department for International Trade’s Office for Investment.
Executive director for MIDAS’ internal Manchester-China Forum, Rhys Whalley, was acting managing director in the interim period.
Commenting on his appointment, Joe Manning said: “I look forward to working with our partners in the public and private sector to deliver our internationalisation strategy and continue this important work.”
Forming part of The Growth Company, MIDAS is owned by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and supports the growth and prosperity of the city region.
Manning’s appointment to the investment agency comes as Greater Manchester continues to be recognised as a major international business centre.
The Financial Times’ FDi European Cities and Regions of the Future 2023-2024 report revealed that the region ranked second best for its foreign and direct investment strategy. According to the FT, these results will help to drive investment to the area through the relocation or expansion of businesses to the area.
Manning added: “Foreign Direct Investment has a key role to play in creating a greener, fairer, and more prosperous Greater Manchester and it’s brilliant to see the city-region’s strong investment proposition recognised. “
