Elevate Your Skills with
Pro Manchester Academy
Expert-led workshops, webinars, and training programmes for business success
Academy Courses
- Training Session
Online Training: Resilient Leadership in Uncertain Times
How to lead with confidence, adaptability, and humanity when the ground is constantly shifting.
● Building personal and emotional resilience as a leader.
● Strategies to prevent burnout (for self + teams).
● Practical frameworks ( Rivers to resilience framework ) for decision-making under pressure.
- Training Session
How to Lead Teams With Confidence – Wherever They Are
As hybrid and remote work becomes the norm, leaders need clear, practical skills to keep teams motivated, connected and performing at their best.
This interactive workshop blends evidence‑based thinking with tools you can apply immediately—whether you manage people across locations, collaborate digitally, or want to strengthen your leadership foundations.
Across 2.5 hours, you’ll explore what effective hybrid leadership looks like today, from inclusive team behaviours to communication, delegation and clarity. You’ll leave with techniques to build connection, lead consistently and help your team use AI confidently and appropriately.
- Training Session
Online Training: Standing Out In The Crowd
Part of the Sales Geek x Pro Manchester training series, Strive not just to sell, but to be of value.
In crowded markets, the difference between winning and losing often comes down to how well you can show the value you bring.
This interactive session will give you the tools to define your true value, position it effectively, and present it in a way that makes customers sit up and listen.
- Training Session
Online Training: Coaching Yourself and Others – The Power of Questioning Skills
As a coach, I see the power of coaching conversations but often work with leaders and business people who have fallen into a habit of telling rather than asking. This might be quicker in the moment but often stilts growth and development – we might think of it as the very opposite of empowering people.
In this interactive workshop, Cath will introduce some basic coaching techniques that will enable you to hold coaching conversations with others in your organisation. And there will be plenty of time to practise the techniques in pairs and small groups and a push to become a better listener.
These techniques allow team members to communicate more effectively but also to access ideas that otherwise might not be expressed, and to overcome barriers that might be holding back progress.
A greater awareness of different questioning styles and, indeed, the power of silence can also be extremely beneficial in conversations with existing and potential customers, suppliers and other stakeholders.
Finally, but importantly, knowledge of these techniques also allows anybody to become their own coach. They feed into the development of the habit of reflection and help you move from the accidental to the strategic in your own career or business.
Attendees will leave with practical tools that they can deploy immediately to improve communication in their working lives.
- Training Session
Online Training: Objection Handling Like A Sales Geek
Part of the Sales Geek x Pro Manchester training series, Objections aren’t roadblocks, they’re stepping stones.
Hearing “no” can feel like the end of the road, but in reality, objections are often a sign of interest. They show that a customer is engaging, testing, and searching for reassurance. The best salespeople know how to lean into objections, uncover what’s really going on, and turn challenges into chances to build trust.
In this dynamic session, you’ll explore the psychology behind objections and learn proven methods to handle them effectively. From practical objection-handling frameworks to simple questioning techniques, you’ll leave with the skills and confidence to navigate even the toughest conversations.
You’ll learn how to:
- Understand why objections happen and how to interpret them
- Spot the difference between a true objection and a simple obstacle
- Apply practical objection-handling frameworks such as C.R.U.S.H, EAR, and Feel-Felt-Found
- Reframe challenges as opportunities to demonstrate value and build stronger relationships
Who’s it for?
Sales professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders who want to become more resilient and persuasive. If you want to stop fearing objections and start using them as fuel for better conversations, this session is for you.
- Training Session
Online Training: Inclusive Leadership – Unlocking Potential Through Equity & Belonging
How leaders can move beyond “tick-box” diversity to build teams that thrive.
● Embedding equity into leadership.
● Recognising bias and fostering belonging.
● Strategies that elevate both performance and wellbeing.
- Training Session
Online Training: How to Negotiate Business and Influence People
Part of the Sales Geek x Pro Manchester training series, Negotiation isn’t about winning at all costs, it’s about creating outcomes where everyone leaves the table satisfied.
In this engaging session, we’ll explore both the science and the art of influence. You’ll learn how to use persuasive language to strengthen your pitch, apply proven psychological principles, and confidently move through each stage of the negotiation process.
With practical tools, interactive exercises, and real-world scenarios, this course will help you transform difficult conversations into collaborative agreements and turn obstacles into opportunities.
You’ll learn how to:
- Use persuasive wording to shape conversations and strengthen your proposals
- Apply the six principles of persuasion (reciprocity, scarcity, authority, consistency, liking, consensus) to your sales approach
- Navigate the five stages of negotiation with confidence
- Discover and apply your BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement)
- Spot and overcome the most common negotiation blockers
Who’s it for?
Sales professionals, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone who needs to influence and negotiate as part of their role. Whether you’re closing deals, managing partnerships, or navigating internal agreements, this session will give you the edge.
- Training Session
Online Training: Close With Confidence – Turning Deals Into Lasting Relationships
Part of the Sales Geek x Pro Manchester training series, Negotiation isn’t about winning at all costs, it’s about creating outcomes where everyone leaves the table satisfied.
In this engaging session, we’ll explore both the science and the art of influence. You’ll learn how to use persuasive language to strengthen your pitch, apply proven psychological principles, and confidently move through each stage of the negotiation process.
With practical tools, interactive exercises, and real-world scenarios, this course will help you transform difficult conversations into collaborative agreements and turn obstacles into opportunities.
You’ll learn how to:
- Use persuasive wording to shape conversations and strengthen your proposals
- Apply the six principles of persuasion (reciprocity, scarcity, authority, consistency, liking, consensus) to your sales approach
- Navigate the five stages of negotiation with confidence
- Discover and apply your BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement)
- Spot and overcome the most common negotiation blockers
Who’s it for?
Sales professionals, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone who needs to influence and negotiate as part of their role. Whether you’re closing deals, managing partnerships, or navigating internal agreements, this session will give you the edge.
- Training Session
Online Training: Igniting Your Super Strengths: The Power Behind Lift-Off
Learning Objectives:
· • Identify and define your personal and professional super strengths.
· • Learn how to harness these strengths as the fuel behind your performance.
· • Explore how strengths create clarity, confidence, and competitive advantage.
- Training Session
Online Training: Performing Under Pressure: Managing Your Inner Chimp in Turbulent Skies
Learning Objectives:
· • Understand the neuroscience of emotions and performance.
· • Learn to manage your ‘inner chimp’ to stay calm and composed under stress.
· • Apply strategies to turn pressure into confidence and clarity in high-stakes moments.
- Training Session
SKILLS ACADEMY TEMPLATE
Through this workshop you will become better at having challenging conversations, making them easier and delivering better outcomes and performance. You’ll understand the role conflict can play, how to mitigate and limit conflict through active listening, clear and empathetic communication.
Designed for all those who have difficult conversations at work such as delivering bad news, liaising with challenging customers or leading disciplinary hearings. You’ll learn and practice practical strategies to develop psychologically safe environments for difficult conversations through the 3 stages of preparation, execution and transition.
This interactive, solutions focused workshop is grounded in the latest thinking and can lead to fCMgr status of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Honey & Morgan is an Accredited CMI Centre.
The CMI is the only Chartered professional body in the field of Management and Leadership. They act as a benchmark for excellence, ensuring that leadership and management training is rigorous, practical, and aligned with real-world business needs.
At the end of this workshop you will receive a Honey & Morgan Certificate of attendance to demonstrate your CPD learning hours. You will also have the option to engage in further learning for to gain a CMI Certificate of Achievement and develop your skills and understanding of the topic for £60. If you choose to take 3 of Honey & Morgan short courses that are run in partnership with Pro Manchester, you can achieve fCMgr status with the CMI.
This extra learning offers an online learning experience including a mix of practical tools, case studies, videos and real world insights will enhance delegates’ understanding of the topic. You will be supported by Honey & Morgan to complete activities that demonstrate the impact of your learning to your organisation.
- Training Session
Skills Academy – TBC – Cornerstone
Through this workshop you will become better at having challenging conversations, making them easier and delivering better outcomes and performance. You’ll understand the role conflict can play, how to mitigate and limit conflict through active listening, clear and empathetic communication.
Designed for all those who have difficult conversations at work such as delivering bad news, liaising with challenging customers or leading disciplinary hearings. You’ll learn and practice practical strategies to develop psychologically safe environments for difficult conversations through the 3 stages of preparation, execution and transition.
This interactive, solutions focused workshop is grounded in the latest thinking and can lead to fCMgr status of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Honey & Morgan is an Accredited CMI Centre.
The CMI is the only Chartered professional body in the field of Management and Leadership. They act as a benchmark for excellence, ensuring that leadership and management training is rigorous, practical, and aligned with real-world business needs.
At the end of this workshop you will receive a Honey & Morgan Certificate of attendance to demonstrate your CPD learning hours. You will also have the option to engage in further learning for to gain a CMI Certificate of Achievement and develop your skills and understanding of the topic for £60. If you choose to take 3 of Honey & Morgan short courses that are run in partnership with Pro Manchester, you can achieve fCMgr status with the CMI.
This extra learning offers an online learning experience including a mix of practical tools, case studies, videos and real world insights will enhance delegates’ understanding of the topic. You will be supported by Honey & Morgan to complete activities that demonstrate the impact of your learning to your organisation.
- Training Session
Skills Academy – TBC – Cornerstone 2
Through this workshop you will become better at having challenging conversations, making them easier and delivering better outcomes and performance. You’ll understand the role conflict can play, how to mitigate and limit conflict through active listening, clear and empathetic communication.
Designed for all those who have difficult conversations at work such as delivering bad news, liaising with challenging customers or leading disciplinary hearings. You’ll learn and practice practical strategies to develop psychologically safe environments for difficult conversations through the 3 stages of preparation, execution and transition.
This interactive, solutions focused workshop is grounded in the latest thinking and can lead to fCMgr status of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Honey & Morgan is an Accredited CMI Centre.
The CMI is the only Chartered professional body in the field of Management and Leadership. They act as a benchmark for excellence, ensuring that leadership and management training is rigorous, practical, and aligned with real-world business needs.
At the end of this workshop you will receive a Honey & Morgan Certificate of attendance to demonstrate your CPD learning hours. You will also have the option to engage in further learning for to gain a CMI Certificate of Achievement and develop your skills and understanding of the topic for £60. If you choose to take 3 of Honey & Morgan short courses that are run in partnership with Pro Manchester, you can achieve fCMgr status with the CMI.
This extra learning offers an online learning experience including a mix of practical tools, case studies, videos and real world insights will enhance delegates’ understanding of the topic. You will be supported by Honey & Morgan to complete activities that demonstrate the impact of your learning to your organisation.
- Training Session
SKILLS ACADEMY RISING VIBE – details TBC
Through this workshop you will become better at having challenging conversations, making them easier and delivering better outcomes and performance. You’ll understand the role conflict can play, how to mitigate and limit conflict through active listening, clear and empathetic communication.
Designed for all those who have difficult conversations at work such as delivering bad news, liaising with challenging customers or leading disciplinary hearings. You’ll learn and practice practical strategies to develop psychologically safe environments for difficult conversations through the 3 stages of preparation, execution and transition.
This interactive, solutions focused workshop is grounded in the latest thinking and can lead to fCMgr status of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Honey & Morgan is an Accredited CMI Centre.
The CMI is the only Chartered professional body in the field of Management and Leadership. They act as a benchmark for excellence, ensuring that leadership and management training is rigorous, practical, and aligned with real-world business needs.
At the end of this workshop you will receive a Honey & Morgan Certificate of attendance to demonstrate your CPD learning hours. You will also have the option to engage in further learning for to gain a CMI Certificate of Achievement and develop your skills and understanding of the topic for £60. If you choose to take 3 of Honey & Morgan short courses that are run in partnership with Pro Manchester, you can achieve fCMgr status with the CMI.
This extra learning offers an online learning experience including a mix of practical tools, case studies, videos and real world insights will enhance delegates’ understanding of the topic. You will be supported by Honey & Morgan to complete activities that demonstrate the impact of your learning to your organisation.
- Training Session
SKILLS ACADEMY RISING VIBE 2 – details TBC (Copy)
Through this workshop you will become better at having challenging conversations, making them easier and delivering better outcomes and performance. You’ll understand the role conflict can play, how to mitigate and limit conflict through active listening, clear and empathetic communication.
Designed for all those who have difficult conversations at work such as delivering bad news, liaising with challenging customers or leading disciplinary hearings. You’ll learn and practice practical strategies to develop psychologically safe environments for difficult conversations through the 3 stages of preparation, execution and transition.
This interactive, solutions focused workshop is grounded in the latest thinking and can lead to fCMgr status of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Honey & Morgan is an Accredited CMI Centre.
The CMI is the only Chartered professional body in the field of Management and Leadership. They act as a benchmark for excellence, ensuring that leadership and management training is rigorous, practical, and aligned with real-world business needs.
At the end of this workshop you will receive a Honey & Morgan Certificate of attendance to demonstrate your CPD learning hours. You will also have the option to engage in further learning for to gain a CMI Certificate of Achievement and develop your skills and understanding of the topic for £60. If you choose to take 3 of Honey & Morgan short courses that are run in partnership with Pro Manchester, you can achieve fCMgr status with the CMI.
This extra learning offers an online learning experience including a mix of practical tools, case studies, videos and real world insights will enhance delegates’ understanding of the topic. You will be supported by Honey & Morgan to complete activities that demonstrate the impact of your learning to your organisation.
- Training Session
Leadership Essentials: Core Skills for Managers
This practical half day session is designed for new and developing managers, or those looking to refresh the fundamentals of effective leadership. It supports participants to build confidence in leading people day to day – from setting clear expectations and empowering their team, to handling feedback and performance conversations with clarity and care.
- Training Session
Resilient Leadership: Emotional Intelligence in Action
This practical half-day session helps leaders understand how their emotions, mindset, and behaviour shape team performance – particularly under pressure. It combines emotional intelligence and resilience to support leaders in staying grounded, communicating effectively, and maintaining standards during challenging situations.
Participants will explore how their emotional responses influence others, how pressure impacts decision-making and behaviour, and how to shift from reacting to responding with intention. The session provides practical tools to manage emotional load, build resilience, and create a team environment based on trust, accountability, and psychological safety.
Through real-world scenarios, reflection, and discussion, leaders will develop greater self-awareness and leave with a personalised approach to managing pressure, supporting their team, and leading with consistency and confidence.
- Training Session
SKILLS ACADEMY Co-CREATION TBC
Through this workshop you will become better at having challenging conversations, making them easier and delivering better outcomes and performance. You’ll understand the role conflict can play, how to mitigate and limit conflict through active listening, clear and empathetic communication.
Designed for all those who have difficult conversations at work such as delivering bad news, liaising with challenging customers or leading disciplinary hearings. You’ll learn and practice practical strategies to develop psychologically safe environments for difficult conversations through the 3 stages of preparation, execution and transition.
This interactive, solutions focused workshop is grounded in the latest thinking and can lead to fCMgr status of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Honey & Morgan is an Accredited CMI Centre.
The CMI is the only Chartered professional body in the field of Management and Leadership. They act as a benchmark for excellence, ensuring that leadership and management training is rigorous, practical, and aligned with real-world business needs.
At the end of this workshop you will receive a Honey & Morgan Certificate of attendance to demonstrate your CPD learning hours. You will also have the option to engage in further learning for to gain a CMI Certificate of Achievement and develop your skills and understanding of the topic for £60. If you choose to take 3 of Honey & Morgan short courses that are run in partnership with Pro Manchester, you can achieve fCMgr status with the CMI.
This extra learning offers an online learning experience including a mix of practical tools, case studies, videos and real world insights will enhance delegates’ understanding of the topic. You will be supported by Honey & Morgan to complete activities that demonstrate the impact of your learning to your organisation.
Featured courses
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pro-Manchester Catch Up
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Case Studies
Schroders Personal Wealth
Pro Manchester is more than a network, it is a community! A community which is connected, engaged through events. It has year on year transformed the Manchester business community, by offering opportunities to ethnic minorities and a meaningful step-up for the those early on in their career and bringing businesses together! If you are not in this network, get signed up, it is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
Schroders Personal Wealth
Pro Manchester is more than a network, it is a community! A community which is connected, engaged through events. It has year on year transformed the Manchester business community, by offering opportunities to ethnic minorities and a meaningful step-up for the those early on in their career and bringing businesses together! If you are not in this network, get signed up, it is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
Schroders Personal Wealth
Pro Manchester is more than a network, it is a community! A community which is connected, engaged through events. It has year on year transformed the Manchester business community, by offering opportunities to ethnic minorities and a meaningful step-up for the those early on in their career and bringing businesses together! If you are not in this network, get signed up, it is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
Schroders Personal Wealth
Pro Manchester is more than a network, it is a community! A community which is connected, engaged through events. It has year on year transformed the Manchester business community, by offering opportunities to ethnic minorities and a meaningful step-up for the those early on in their career and bringing businesses together! If you are not in this network, get signed up, it is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
Member testimonials
Pro Manchester is more than a network, it is a community! A community which is connected, engaged through events. It has year on year transformed the Manchester business community, by offering opportunities to ethnic minorities and a meaningful step-up for the those early on in their career and bringing businesses together! If you are not in this network, get signed up, it is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
Dr Amna Khan
Senior Lecturer in Marketing specialising in Consumer Behaviour and Retailing at Manchester Metropolitan University
From the moment I first connected with pro-manchester, I felt genuinely welcomed. Their warmth, integrity and commitment to building a stronger North West business community shines through in all they set out to achieve.
pro-manchester goes far beyond simply connecting people as real, lasting relationships are formed when collaborating with the team. It’s a space where you feel supported not only in business goals, but in your personal growth too. You benefit from the team’s creative vision, their innovative approach and their genuine belief in the people they work with. That kind of environment doesn’t solely open doors, it empowers you to walk through them with confidence and clarity.
Through the panels, committees and events I have been a part of, I’ve not only expanded my network but also found allies, collaborators and friends. The conversations are thought provoking, the collaboration is authentic, and the ripple effect of their work extends far beyond the event.
pro-manchester is much, much more than a network; it’s a catalyst for progress. I’m proud to be an ambassador and to champion the incredible work they do, supporting and inspiring businesses while shaping a future that we can all be excited about.
Alex Clapp
Founder of Claritee Group Ltd
Pro-Manchester is like having a secret business ninja in your back pocket, picking up subjects that support businesses and growth, promote the region, and showcase the best of Manchester. Every place needs a Pro-Ninja!
Andrea Winders
Head of Inward Investment for Life Sciences and Healthcare at MIDAS Manchester’s Inward Investment Agency
What I love about Pro-Manchester is how genuinely welcoming it is. The events always feel very purpose driven, so it’s easy to meet people and learn from different perspectives! The panel discussions are brilliant, with really interesting topics and well-represented speakers.
The opportunity to speak to large audiences at events like Trailblazing Tech, while building a company in my twenties, has been an amazing experience. The community is not only welcoming and supportive but also exceptionally well-organized and professional.
Caroline Welsh
Operations Director at Leafyard
As a relative newbie to the city of Manchester and its business community, pro-manchester has provided me with an invaluable networking starting point to build my professional network and relationships. My involvement with the pro-manchester corporate finance committee has given me and Bermans excellent exposure and the opportunity to have an insight and understanding of the ongoings and developments in the Manchester CF community. The quality, variety and volume of networking events pro-manchester hosts is second to none.
Laura McMorland
Partner at Bermans
Pro-Manchester has been a fantastic partner for NetZero.co.uk. Their network, events, and insights have connected us with like-minded businesses across the region, helping us share our vision for a low-carbon future. Having been office neighbours, we know the team well and their professionalism and passion for supporting Greater Manchester’s business community shines through in everything they do, and we’re proud to be part of it.
Mark Hammond
Founder at Net Zero
As a representative of Finance Isle of Man and Fintech committee member at Pro-Manchester, I can confidently say that this network has been instrumental in building meaningful business relationships across Greater Manchester and beyond. Pro-Manchester provides an exceptional platform for professionals to connect, collaborate, and create genuine opportunities for growth.
What sets Pro-Manchester apart is its commitment to fostering authentic business relationships rather than superficial networking. The quality of members, the calibre of events, and the genuine spirit of collaboration make it an invaluable resource for any business looking to establish a strong presence in the North-West.
From the Isle of Man perspective, Pro-Manchester has been crucial in helping us bridge the gap between our island’s financial & professional services sector and Greater Manchester’s dynamic business ecosystem. The connections we’ve made through this network have led to real partnerships and tangible business outcomes.
I would recommend Pro-Manchester to any serious business professional looking to expand their network with purpose and integrity.
Paul Blake
Senior Financial Services Executive at Isle of Man Department of Enterprise
Working with Pro-Manchester has not only allowed me to grow professionally, but personally. The opportunities, support and network that they provide across all sectors in Greater Manchester is unrivalled and I’m delighted to be part of it.
Richard Sherwood
Head of Commercial Partnerships at Marketing Manchester
Pro Manchester is not just about turning up to events. It is a proper community where people back each other and share what works. It is a place where you can throw ideas around, challenge the usual way of doing things, and get support to try new approaches. The connections are real, and the conversations have purpose.
James Spencer
Managing Director of Xentum
Pro-Manchester has been an invaluable partner in my personal and business journey. Their commitment to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and innovative environment has significantly contributed to my growth and success in Manchester. The networking opportunities, insightful events, and access to a wealth of resources have not only helped me develop professionally but also enabled me to “stay curious” but also give back to others.
I am proud to be associated with an organization that truly understands and supports the needs of the business community and in the Manchester communities. Pro-Manchester’s dedication to equality, diversity, inclusivity and the championing of Neurodiversity, has ensured that every member feels valued and respected. This creates a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Additionally, their focus on well-being has helped me maintain a healthy work-life balance, which is essential for long-term success and mental well-being. One of the great things about Pro-Manchester is that I’ve made many friends rather than just LinkedIn connections, and I’ve had lots of fun on this journey. It feels like a Family.
Paul Clayton
Product owner
Serving as a Director of pro-manchester has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The organisation plays a vital role in supporting business growth, professional development, and networking across Greater Manchester. With a diverse membership spanning multiple sectors, pro-manchester offers a dynamic platform for businesses to connect, collaborate, and thrive.
From the perspective of my day job as a Business Engagement Manager at The University of Manchester, being on the board has been particularly valuable. It enables us to actively promote opportunities for collaboration between businesses and the University of Manchester to firms who may be unaware of such engagement mechanisms as a route to support their development and innovation; it also provides a route to showcase academic expertise through event participation, bringing different perspectives to complement industry-expert speakers. This not only helps amplify the impact of our research but also strengthens the bridge between academia and industry.
pro-manchester is a highly professional organisation, and I would strongly encourage any business looking to build its profile and network within Greater Manchester to become a member.
Rachel Kenyon,
Business Engagement Manager, The University of Manchester
Being a member of Pro-Manchester, and more recently a committee member of one of the steering groups, has been a gateway for me to access and work with a dynamic business community in Manchester.
It’s a community that fosters genuine connections and collaborative opportunities, offers thought leadership in key sectors and brings together professionals from all areas of Manchester’s business eco-system.
The events held, whether breakfast briefings or flagship events, are always thought provoking and well attended and I’ve come away from several with fresh ideas and new connections.
Gary Fenemore
Director at S&W
Truth has been a member of Pro-Manchester since 2018. We have been able to connect with other business owners and profile our brand through events and training sessions during that time. Unlike other networks, Pro-Manchester gives you the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are genuinely interested in connecting, not just for a quick sell. Our co-founder, Jo Scott has been the chairwoman of the Creative, Digital and Media committee for the last 18 months – where she steers the content for the various events. Pro-Manchester is wholly supportive in the committee sessions and is able to organise the events and attendees seamlessly. It’s a great profiling membership for your business.
Jo Scott
Managing partner at Truth Creative
Pro-Manchester is a force for business and professional growth across Greater Manchester. Their events foster meaningful connections, unite a diverse range of professionals, and spark fresh thinking. The welcoming environment and tailored resources provide vital support for growth and collaboration.
The team’s dedication is evident in every interaction—they’re proactive, knowledgeable, and always ready to help. Their events and workshops are thoughtfully curated to develop skills, encourage innovation, and offer real value. Notably, pro-Manchester’s genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures everyone has a voice and a place in the business community.
I’ve seen first-hand how pro-Manchester helps members thrive: from forging strategic partnerships to gaining new insights and building confidence. My membership continues to enrich my professional journey, and I’m confident it will continue to empower many more people and businesses in our region to keep Manchester well and truly on the map for innovation, business and our community.
Charlotte Beck
partner at Slater Heelis
pro-manchester has been an invaluable platform for driving innovation and collaboration within the Greater Manchester healthcare sector. Their Healthcare group expertly addresses critical issues such as NHS pressures, public-private partnerships, and the integration of cutting-edge health technologies. Through their events, roundtables, and insightful content, pro-manchester fosters a dynamic community that connects healthcare leaders, innovators, and professionals. This has made a tangible impact on advancing healthcare innovation and delivering tangible improvements to the region’s health and wellbeing. Their commitment to inclusive dialogue and sector growth truly sets pro-manchester apart as a catalyst for positive change in healthcare.
Jamie Goodwin
Business Engagement Officer, University of Manchester
Pro-Manchester offers City in the Community a great professional platform for building proactive connections with Manchester’s thriving business community. It enables us to raise awareness of the incredible opportunities to establish meaningful partnerships which contribute to empowering healthier lives through football and blending social impact and community value with business success and economic growth for the city.
Louise Wright
Head of Partnerships, City in the Community
Pro-Manchester is a great network of individuals from all sectors and industries. The events hosted are always interesting, fun and rewarding . You will never leave a Pro-Manchester event without having made a new connection or without having learned something valuable (or both!) I’m proud to be a member of the Future Pro committee and upon joining in May 2025, I was made to feel welcome from the off.
Callum Duff
Solicitors, Kuits
Testimonial Louise Varley
In my opinion, Pro Manchester is the most professional networking organisation in the region. It has expanded my professional network through a varied and thought-provoking range of events.
I am proud to be a member of the Pro-Women Committee, supporting one aspect of Pro Manchester’s inclusivity agenda.
Testimonial Dr Eliza Morgan
I was drawn to Pro Manchester because it is more than a transactional networking organisation. It is committed to delivering for the Manchester region’s businesses and people. As a business we have established relationships with our core market and gained new, long-term partners and clients.
I am proud to be a member of the Skills Committee, which offers me the opportunity to provide insights and knowledge to support Pro Manchester’s agenda of raising aspirations and delivering outcomes for businesses.
Louise Varley and Eliza Morgan
Directors, Honey & Morgan
Few organisations have pushed Greater Manchester forward like pro-manchester have. It is unbelievable how many events, connections and programmes their small team run for members. Connecting the best of Manchester’s economy, every year they find new ways to add value to this ecosystem and champion our best businesses. Acting as a direct conduit to the professional services sector, they are an essential part of the Manchester success story over the last decade. My experience chairing the Innovation committee has renewed my beliefs around how collaborative our city is. I believe Pro-manchester will play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s future.
Ben Davies
Group Marketing Director, Praetura Ventures
Being part of pro-manchester has opened up fantastic opportunities for City in the Community to connect with a diverse and influential business network across Greater Manchester. The events, insights and introductions have helped us to raise awareness of our work and explore new connections that make a real difference to people in our city. It’s a brilliant community to be part of – supportive, welcoming and full of energy.
Rachel Clarkson
Head of Communications & Engagement, City in the Community
Pro-manchester is more than a network. It’s a thriving community that connects ambitious professionals with the people, ideas, and opportunities that shape Greater Manchester’s future. Whether you are looking to grow your business, develop your career, or make meaningful connections, pro-manchester creates a platform where collaboration truly drives success.
Sophie Holt-Rogers
Trainee Solicitor, Harrison Drury Solicitors
Being a member of the of Pro-Manchester’s Green Economy Committee is a crucial part of my networking activities with other local businesses in the region. It allows me to develop relationships with senior stakeholders from other local businesses to share learnings and ideas, whilst contributing to key industry events and instigating change and green growth in the region.
Emily Hesketh
Partner at Deloitte
Being part of Pro-Manchester as Saffery’s rep has been a rewarding experience. From joining the Corporate Finance committee to speaking on panels like the Corporate Finance Lunch, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with a diverse network of professionals, share insights, and contribute to conversations that matter. It’s a community I’m proud to be part of, and I look forward to continuing to support its mission.
Erin Berry
Director, Saffery LLP
Being a member of the of Pro-Manchester’s Green Economy Committee is a crucial part of my networking activities with other local businesses in the region. It allows me to develop relationships with senior stakeholders from other local businesses to share learnings and ideas, whilst contributing to key industry events and instigating change and green growth in the region.
Samantha Byrne
Director of Sales & Marketing, Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly
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FAQ`s
Who is the Academy for?
The Academy is for professionals at all stages of their career, as well as businesses looking to develop their teams. Whether you’re building foundational skills or advancing leadership capability, there are opportunities to support your growth.
What kind of training does the Academy offer?
We offer a wide range of training, from technical and professional skills to leadership, personal development and sector-specific learning. All sessions are designed to be practical, relevant and immediately applicable in the workplace.
Who delivers the training?
Our training is delivered by expert providers and industry specialists from across the pro-manchester network, ensuring high-quality, real-world insight that reflects the needs of ambitious businesses.
How does the Academy support business growth?
By developing the skills and capabilities of individuals and teams, the Academy helps businesses stay competitive in a fast-changing environment. It equips organisations with the knowledge and confidence to adapt, innovate and grow.
Do I need to be a pro-manchester member to attend?
Tickets are available for non members at a slightly higher ticket price. Membership does offer preferential rates at all of our events.
How do I book a training session?
You can browse and book sessions through the pro-manchester website. Each session includes full details on content, format and who it’s best suited for.