Hosted by The Mill

HOW DOES A CITY AT THE CENTRE OF THE NATIONAL CONVERSATION TURN ATTENTION INTO GROWTH?

Manchester is currently basking in an unprecedented spotlight. From national political shifts to international media interest, Greater Manchester finds itself at a pivotal moment.

But behind the headlines, crucial questions remain: How will the region use its expanding profile and devolved powers to drive economic growth, attract world-class investment, and provide real, practical advantages for everyday Mancunians?

On Tuesday, 27 October,The Mill hosts the inaugural Future of Greater Manchester Summit,a gathering bringing together the region’s most influential leaders across business, politics, and culture.

Held at the People’s History Museum, the summit will feature high-profile keynote interviews and three core panel sessions chaired by senior Mill journalists:

• Finance & Investment: How Greater Manchester can capitalise on its momentum to drive sustainable growth, infrastructure, and regional productivity.
• Politics & Governance: Exploring "Manchesterism", regional devolution, and how decisions made at the top translate into outcomes for local communities.
• Culture & Identity: The role of the city's creative, cultural, and community institutions in shaping modern Manchester's international identity.
  
  
  

CONFIRMED SPEAKERS & PANELLISTS

• Bev Craig (Mayor of Greater Manchester)

  Elected Mayor of Greater Manchester in August 2026 after serving as Leader of Manchester City Council (2021–2026). Bev joins us for a special opening keynote interview exploring the city-region’s political, economic, and social trajectory.
  
  

• Chris Oglesby (Chief Executive, Bruntwood)

  Leading one of the North's most prominent property and development groups, driving commercial growth, innovation districts, and urban regeneration across Greater Manchester.
  

• Mike Emmerich (Founding Director, Metro Dynamics)

  Former Chief Executive of New Economy and a key architect behind the emergence of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, bringing deep expertise in regional governance and devolution.

• Michael Taylor (Journalist, The Business Desk)

  Communications and political strategy advisor, veteran journalist, and event host specialising in northern economic policy and political discourse.
  

• Esme Ward (Director, Manchester Museum)

  Leading one of the UK’s most significant university museums at the University of Manchester, with a mission to build the world’s most inclusive, imaginative, and caring museum culture.

Full speaker lineup across finance, business, and culture to be announced in the upcoming week.

EVENT SCHEDULE

• 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Registration & Welcome Refreshments (Tea, coffee, soft drinks served in Processional Way)
  

• 1:30 PM – 4:25 PM: Opening Keynote & Panel Sessions (Including an afternoon tea & coffee break)
• 4:25 PM – 5:30 PM: Post-Summit Networking Drinks Session (Join speakers and fellow delegates in the Processional Way for wine, beer, and refreshments)

TICKET OPTIONS & PRICING

• General Admission: £40.00

  (Includes full summit access, afternoon refreshments, and post-event networking drinks)

DETAILS AND LOCATION

• Date: Tuesday, 27 October 2026
• Time: 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Doors open at 1:00 PM for registration)
• Venue: People's History Museum, Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3ER
  
  Please take your seat in the Engine Hall by 1:20 PM so we can begin promptly at 1:30 PM.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Full refunds are available up to 72 hours before the summit begins (until 1:30 PM on Saturday, 24 October 2026). After this point, tickets are strictly non-refundable. To request a refund, please email us at info@millmediaco.uk with your order reference number and full name.

By attending, you consent to being photographed and recorded. If you prefer not to be filmed or photographed, or would like to opt out, please email us in advance at info@millmediaco.uk or notify our team at the registration desk upon arrival.

For any press enquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or general questions regarding the summit, please get in touch at info@millmediaco.uk.

ACCESSIBILITY 

The People's History Museum and Engine Hall are fully step-free and wheelchair accessible, with accessible toilet facilities on site.

If you have any specific access requirements, blue badge parking inquiries, or require reserved seating, please contact us at info@millmediaco.uk prior to the event so we can accommodate your needs.