Harrogate International Centre has made two new strategic appointments to strengthen its sales and marketing capability.
Alison Griffin returns as head of sales and marketing on a short term contract and Paul Ashton, formerly with G-Mex (now Manchester Central), is to take up duties as sales manager.
Alison Griffin returns to a role that will see her overseeing all aspects of the venue’s sales and marketing activity, including the launch of two new event spaces which are due to be built over the course of the next year.
Paul Ashton, a seasoned sales professional with considerable industry knowledge and experience, takes up his post in July and his initial focus will be to increase proactive sales in HIC’s core markets to match the venue’s unique portfolio of conference, meetings, exhibition and event spaces.
Harrogate International Centre director, Stuart Quin: “Alison and Paul join at a crucial time for HIC, we are undergoing extensive reviews of our management structure, as we direct our sales and marketing focus to create a greater solution oriented approach to sales and event management.”
“We look forward to the impact Alison and Paul will have on both the team and the future of our business. Like many other venues, HIC has faced broader industry challenges such as smaller budgets, shorter events and lower delegate numbers during the last year. Instead of sitting back, our sales team has worked more closely than ever with clients helping them to develop their events through new products and services.”
“Alison has a visible track record in raising the marketing profile of HIC and returns to provide strong management direction and motivation to both marketing and sales teams. It is really good to welcome Paul Ashton to HIC. His wealth of experience gained in Manchester and elsewhere, and his knowledge of organisers and large UK and international events, should prove instrumental in delivering an increased number of events to Harrogate.”