"With the completion of the new Welcome Wing, there is no better time to tell the world about this magnificent building."
Ray Hanks, Head of Marketing, The Monastery
Ray has a background in advertising and marketing having worked for three of the top ten advertising agencies in the UK before becoming managing director of Wunderman Worldwide, the biggest direct marketing agency in Europe.
Originally from London, Ray moved to Manchester in 2002 and became Regional Business Adviser then Head of Creative & Digital Industries at the North West Development Agency, responsible for setting up the team that helped secure the BBC’s relocation and the creation of MediaCityUK in Salford.
He is an award-winning business adviser for creative and digital industries, and has trained over 1,500 people to set up their own businesses. He’s also a Member of The Chartered Institute of Marketing, a Member of The Institute of Consulting and an External Adviser to The University Of Salford.
Ray became a Trustee of the Monastery of St Francis & Gorton Trust in 2010 and continues to be on the Board.
Elaine Griffiths, chief executive of The Monastery Manchester said: “Ray just loves the Monastery and is probably the most creative person we know. We’re so excited that he will be leading us through this most important phase of the project as we re-launch the Monastery venue with all of the new build facilities at the same time as consolidating all of our arts, health, education and charitable work in the local community.”
Commenting on his appointment, Ray Hanks, The Monastery’s new head of marketing said: “I have been involved with The Monastery for many years so it’s great to be able to give the marketing function my full attention. With the completion of the new Welcome Wing, there is no better time to tell the world about this magnificent building.
It will be a challenge to work across the two aspects of the organisation as it continues to build on its award-winning reputation as one of the UK’s most iconic venues as well as establish itself as one of the North West’s top visitor attractions. These two sides of The Monastery must work together in absolute synergy. Event organisers know that they’re helping the charity as well as enjoying the benefits of this historic building. Marketing the magic of The Monastery is a task anyone would relish.”
Ray, who is originally from London lives at Salford Quays and is a lifelong Manchester United supporter.
For more information about The Monastery visit www.themonastery.co.uk or call 0161 223 3211
