

OUR PEOPLE
Our people
We are a close-knit, experienced and passionate team of 30+ individuals that comes together to deliver great work.
Made up of strategists, planners, communicators, writers, designers and developers, we come from all walks of life. When you partner with us you get multiple disciplines, diverse skillsets and deep expertise in a variety of sectors to achieve award-winning outcomes.
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Sara lives and breathes business strategy.
Coming from a media industry background, Sara ran large-scale divisions of Trinity Mirror’s regional offering and was Commercial Managing Director UK for the group.
Sara brings a wealth of commercial acumen and experience to assist clients in identifying market opportunities and unlocking growth potential and develops robust strategies to combat business challenges.
Sara Wilde
Managing Director
-
James has been working in agency land for 10 years now, working with global banks, new-to-market sports brands and one of the UK’s biggest burger joints.
Having led, built and managed new business teams across the North West, he is responsible for strategy and client relationships in the agency.
When not in the office he can be found at the rugby club, dreaming of ski slopes, walking the dog or practising his (amateur) photography skills.
James Summerscales
Client & Brand Strategy Director
-
Viv has been a creative director for over 25 years, working across a wide range of global brands both in the UK and abroad. And picking up awards for his work in both the UK and New York.
Viv leads our branding briefs and is passionate about creating rational and emotional connections between people and brands.
Outside of the agency world, Viv can be found up a windy mountain-top in North Wales, mucking out on his small holding. If you listen closely, he can often be heard telling the animals that the ads were better back in the day.
Viv Griffiths
Creative Director
-
With over 25 years of experience, Karen runs customer and audience insights on behalf of brands – guiding them through findings and delivering informed strategies.
Karen has led several wide-scale public consultations including Greater Manchester Healthier Together and Everton Football Club’s The People’s Project for their new stadium.
She is the driving force behind our key behaviour change campaigns. Including ‘Getting Under the Skin’ and helping the NHS reach ethnic communities, and ‘Simple Things’ which focused on Public Health Directors increasing handwashing and sanitisation.
Karen Swan
Marketing Director
-
Chris is an award-winning PR operator who has over 25 years of experience working in the media, which he developed in London and the North West.
Chris moved into public relations in 2005, having spent the earlier part of his career as a features writer in print journalism. He represents major brands in the built environment, professional services and biotech and leads PR for the agency.
Chris Hulme
PR Director
-
Jane is an award-winning journalist with more than 15 years of experience in the PR industry.
Hugely creative, Jane is the person to turn to if you’re looking for big ideas which are guaranteed to get your brand noticed. She is held in the highest regard by all her clients and journalistic peers, who describe her as “just having that special something to make things happen!”
Away from the office, you can be guaranteed to spot Jane either paddle-boarding around our coastlines or throwing ridiculously heavy weights around in a gym!
Jane Woodhead
UK Consumer PR Director
-
Duncan is an experienced consumer research expert, specialising in FMCG (Fast-moving consumer goods) with a particular emphasis on groceries (including; food, drink and household items).
For over 25 years, Duncan has worked with some of the UK’s largest agencies. Including TNS Sofres where he started his career as a graduate, rising to Associate Director and then to SGA International (Simon Godfrey Associates). More recently Duncan has worked with Adelphi International Research and Mott MacDonald’s as a project director.
In his spare time, Duncan enjoys cooking for those lucky enough to make one of his famous dinner parties!
Duncan Swan
Head of Research
-
Laura has extensive PR experience after over 10 years of working for agencies in both Liverpool and London.
She has worked with a wide range of clients for world-class events and award-winning campaigns for high-profile consumer brands. Such as The London 2012 Olympics and the 2014 Ryder Cup and household names Marks & Spencer and Heinz. As well as leading businesses such as First Utility, Bruntwood and the national law firm, Shoosmiths.
Across B2B and B2C sectors, Laura is expertly placed to deliver strategically-led campaigns – with an impressive phonebook filled with regional, national and international journalists to assist.
Laura Harris
PR Director
-
Chris has worked in digital marketing and communications and online technology for over 20 years.
He has delivered creative and innovative campaigns for many clients across a wide variety of sectors and platforms, from Premier League football teams to global law firms.
Chris is always looking to understand and embrace new technology to help businesses and organisations deliver genuine ROI on their digital campaigns.
Chris Burgess
Digital Account Director
-
Kelly has over eight years of experience in creating content strategies and copy for a range of industries.
Her clients include household names in home DIY and popular fashion brands alongside food & bev giants. Right through to large players in the fin-tech and construction spaces, she understands how to get your messages in front of the right audience.
In her free time, you’ll find her cooking up a storm in the kitchen, drinking rosé regardless of the season and listening to Elvis.
Kelly Cunningham
Head of Content
-
Connor is a graphic designer with a passion for typography and traditional print work.
He has a knack for pushing creative boundaries and finding new ways to bring ideas to life. His experience at Influential has allowed him to develop and visualise concepts and branding, and social media collateral for a diverse range of clients. Who include NHS England, Invest Liverpool City Region, and CHAMPS.
Connor has a strong ability to adapt his skills to different clients and industries, while still maintaining his unique creative approach.
Connor Beighton
Designer
-
A former journalist, Steph has worked in PR and comms for around 10 years, managing both consumer and B2B campaigns.
Her experience includes working across a range of sectors, such as retail and leisure; health; hospitality; property; and the legal sector. Where she creates and implements strategies to achieve the best possible results for her clients.
At Influential, Steph works predominantly with consumer and public sector clients. She most recently led PR activity for the public health campaign Simple Things, a behaviour change initiative to help reduce the spread of illnesses.
Stephanie Cureton
Account Director
-
Tom has worked in public relations since 2010, delivering PR campaigns for a broad range of clients across the public and private sectors.
His clients have included the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, Swinton Insurance, the Construction Industry Trading Board, architects BDP and the Pew Research Centre.
Tom Carlin
Account Director
-
Daniel Ash
Account Director
-
Sarah has over ten years of experience in PR, marketing and social media management.
She’s worked with a spectrum of B2B and B2C brands across various sectors, including retail, professional services, fashion, hospitality and cybersecurity. All of which involved planning, developing and implementing bespoke PR strategies.
At Influential, she works predominantly on B2B accounts, including Morgan Sindall and Grant Thornton.
When she’s not busy with work, she’s usually planning her next holiday in the sun or weekend away!
Sarah Gilmour
Senior Account Director
-
Chris is the former Business Editor of the Manchester Evening News and Managing Editor of TheBusinessDesk.com.
Following his 20 years in regional business journalism he has been with Influential for more than seven years. Bringing his skills and invaluable media knowledge and contacts to bear on behalf of clients in the private equity, corporate finance, real estate and regeneration sectors in particular.
He has significant specialist experience in helping entrepreneurs and fast-growing businesses raise their profile as they look to attract investment or new ownership. He also assists clients with brand and reputation management as part of the agency’s crisis PR service.
Chris Barry
Associate Director
- Charlotte is responsible for the daily project management of campaigns and the initial point of contact for clients, designers and suppliers.She possesses a strong background in client services and has helped to deliver both online and offline projects from creative through to completion for a wide range of national and international clients.Some of who include Cadbury Ice Cream, Princes, Slater and Gordon, Jewson and Newburn Bakehouse by Warburtons.
Charlotte Spencer
Senior Creative Account Manager
-
Gabriella works on national campaigns across an array of B2B sectors. With a focus on the built environment, biotech, and professional services, she uses her broad experience in copywriting to bring content to life across all her accounts. She is drawn to large scale regeneration projects, always creating buzz for the latest trends in placemaking.
When she’s not at her desk, you’ll find Gabriella restaurant hopping around Manchester or whipping up her favourite recipes at home.
Gabriella Elia
Senior Account Executive
-
Em graduated from the University of Salford with a degree in Journalism with Public Relations in 2023 and spent a year training with Weber Shandwick before joining the Influential team. She currently works across a range of B2B and B2C clients, including N8 Research Partnership, Merlin Entertainments, and National Lottery operator, Allwyn.
When she’s not popping champagne corks for lottery winner photoshoots, securing media opportunities for clients, or drafting copy, you will often find her perusing a charity shop or at a thrifting event!
Em Shaw
Account Executive
-
Paula brings international experience to her role at Influential. Since joining in early 2024, she has worked on a variety of B2B and B2C campaigns for notable clients including Grant Thornton, Downing, and Liverpool ONE, and played a key role in the launch campaign for The Halyard Hotel in Liverpool.
Her background spans both PR and marketing on both sides of the Atlantic and is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian.
Paula Herrasti
PR Account Executive
-
Katie joined Influential in 2024 after completing a master’s degree in Public Relations and Digital Communications, during which she wrote her dissertation on sports crisis communications. She works primarily across B2B accounts at Influential, including Palatine, Mayfield and HaulageHub. Her responsibilities include copywriting, liaising with the media and collating coverage.
Katie Griffiths
PR Account Executive
-
With a background in brand identity and motion design, Aleksandar is a graphic designer with diverse range of experience in both traditional and digital media.
This enables him to create work which captures the essence of a brand and connects with audiences.
His motion design skills allow him to create dynamic and engaging animations that bring brand stories to life. His work has been recognised with a Pencil award from D&AD.
Aleksandar Andonov
Designer
-
Mark is an experienced finance professional with 20 years of experience in Finance and Management Accounting.
Having joined Influential in 2011 he has played an important role in our growth and achieved a vision of helping to double the size of the company over this period.
In his position, Mark is responsible for all aspects of the accounting function, financial planning and business decision support, full monthly and year-end accounts production, audit and compliance. Mark is an established member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, holding a CIMA Dip MA.
Mark Whittle
Finance Manager
-
Lewis works across both B2B and B2C accounts at Influential with a particular focus on property, construction and visitor attractions.
He joined the agency after catching the communications bug through the Government’s Kickstart scheme, which saw him rapidly gain experience across media relations and client services.
His responsibilities include producing content, liaising with the media and reporting on the success of the agency’s communications campaigns.
Lewis Hinds
Account Executive
-
Sara lives and breathes business strategy.
Coming from a media industry background, Sara ran large-scale divisions of Trinity Mirror’s regional offering and was Commercial Managing Director UK for the group.
Sara brings a wealth of commercial acumen and experience to assist clients in identifying market opportunities and unlocking growth potential and develops robust strategies to combat business challenges.
Sara Wilde
Managing Director
-
James has been working in agency land for 10 years now, working with global banks, new-to-market sports brands and one of the UK’s biggest burger joints.
Having led, built and managed new business teams across the North West, he is responsible for strategy and client relationships in the agency.
When not in the office he can be found at the rugby club, dreaming of ski slopes, walking the dog or practising his (amateur) photography skills.
James Summerscales
Client & Brand Strategy Director
-
Viv has been a creative director for over 25 years, working across a wide range of global brands both in the UK and abroad. And picking up awards for his work in both the UK and New York.
Viv leads our branding briefs and is passionate about creating rational and emotional connections between people and brands.
Outside of the agency world, Viv can be found up a windy mountain-top in North Wales, mucking out on his small holding. If you listen closely, he can often be heard telling the animals that the ads were better back in the day.
Viv Griffiths
Creative Director
-
With over 25 years of experience, Karen runs customer and audience insights on behalf of brands – guiding them through findings and delivering informed strategies.
Karen has led several wide-scale public consultations including Greater Manchester Healthier Together and Everton Football Club’s The People’s Project for their new stadium.
She is the driving force behind our key behaviour change campaigns. Including ‘Getting Under the Skin’ and helping the NHS reach ethnic communities, and ‘Simple Things’ which focused on Public Health Directors increasing handwashing and sanitisation.
Karen Swan
Marketing Director
-
Chris is an award-winning PR operator who has over 25 years of experience working in the media, which he developed in London and the North West.
Chris moved into public relations in 2005, having spent the earlier part of his career as a features writer in print journalism. He represents major brands in the built environment, professional services and biotech and leads PR for the agency.
Chris Hulme
PR Director
-
Jane is an award-winning journalist with more than 15 years of experience in the PR industry.
Hugely creative, Jane is the person to turn to if you’re looking for big ideas which are guaranteed to get your brand noticed. She is held in the highest regard by all her clients and journalistic peers, who describe her as “just having that special something to make things happen!”
Away from the office, you can be guaranteed to spot Jane either paddle-boarding around our coastlines or throwing ridiculously heavy weights around in a gym!
Jane Woodhead
UK Consumer PR Director
-
Duncan is an experienced consumer research expert, specialising in FMCG (Fast-moving consumer goods) with a particular emphasis on groceries (including; food, drink and household items).
For over 25 years, Duncan has worked with some of the UK’s largest agencies. Including TNS Sofres where he started his career as a graduate, rising to Associate Director and then to SGA International (Simon Godfrey Associates). More recently Duncan has worked with Adelphi International Research and Mott MacDonald’s as a project director.
In his spare time, Duncan enjoys cooking for those lucky enough to make one of his famous dinner parties!
Duncan Swan
Head of Research
-
Laura has extensive PR experience after over 10 years of working for agencies in both Liverpool and London.
She has worked with a wide range of clients for world-class events and award-winning campaigns for high-profile consumer brands. Such as The London 2012 Olympics and the 2014 Ryder Cup and household names Marks & Spencer and Heinz. As well as leading businesses such as First Utility, Bruntwood and the national law firm, Shoosmiths.
Across B2B and B2C sectors, Laura is expertly placed to deliver strategically-led campaigns – with an impressive phonebook filled with regional, national and international journalists to assist.
Laura Harris
PR Director
-
Chris has worked in digital marketing and communications and online technology for over 20 years.
He has delivered creative and innovative campaigns for many clients across a wide variety of sectors and platforms, from Premier League football teams to global law firms.
Chris is always looking to understand and embrace new technology to help businesses and organisations deliver genuine ROI on their digital campaigns.
Chris Burgess
Digital Account Director
-
Kelly has over eight years of experience in creating content strategies and copy for a range of industries.
Her clients include household names in home DIY and popular fashion brands alongside food & bev giants. Right through to large players in the fin-tech and construction spaces, she understands how to get your messages in front of the right audience.
In her free time, you’ll find her cooking up a storm in the kitchen, drinking rosé regardless of the season and listening to Elvis.
Kelly Cunningham
Head of Content
-
Connor is a graphic designer with a passion for typography and traditional print work.
He has a knack for pushing creative boundaries and finding new ways to bring ideas to life. His experience at Influential has allowed him to develop and visualise concepts and branding, and social media collateral for a diverse range of clients. Who include NHS England, Invest Liverpool City Region, and CHAMPS.
Connor has a strong ability to adapt his skills to different clients and industries, while still maintaining his unique creative approach.
Connor Beighton
Designer
-
A former journalist, Steph has worked in PR and comms for around 10 years, managing both consumer and B2B campaigns.
Her experience includes working across a range of sectors, such as retail and leisure; health; hospitality; property; and the legal sector. Where she creates and implements strategies to achieve the best possible results for her clients.
At Influential, Steph works predominantly with consumer and public sector clients. She most recently led PR activity for the public health campaign Simple Things, a behaviour change initiative to help reduce the spread of illnesses.
Stephanie Cureton
Account Director
-
Tom has worked in public relations since 2010, delivering PR campaigns for a broad range of clients across the public and private sectors.
His clients have included the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, Swinton Insurance, the Construction Industry Trading Board, architects BDP and the Pew Research Centre.
Tom Carlin
Account Director
-
Daniel Ash
Account Director
-
Sarah has over ten years of experience in PR, marketing and social media management.
She’s worked with a spectrum of B2B and B2C brands across various sectors, including retail, professional services, fashion, hospitality and cybersecurity. All of which involved planning, developing and implementing bespoke PR strategies.
At Influential, she works predominantly on B2B accounts, including Morgan Sindall and Grant Thornton.
When she’s not busy with work, she’s usually planning her next holiday in the sun or weekend away!
Sarah Gilmour
Senior Account Director
-
Chris is the former Business Editor of the Manchester Evening News and Managing Editor of TheBusinessDesk.com.
Following his 20 years in regional business journalism he has been with Influential for more than seven years. Bringing his skills and invaluable media knowledge and contacts to bear on behalf of clients in the private equity, corporate finance, real estate and regeneration sectors in particular.
He has significant specialist experience in helping entrepreneurs and fast-growing businesses raise their profile as they look to attract investment or new ownership. He also assists clients with brand and reputation management as part of the agency’s crisis PR service.
Chris Barry
Associate Director
- Charlotte is responsible for the daily project management of campaigns and the initial point of contact for clients, designers and suppliers.She possesses a strong background in client services and has helped to deliver both online and offline projects from creative through to completion for a wide range of national and international clients.Some of who include Cadbury Ice Cream, Princes, Slater and Gordon, Jewson and Newburn Bakehouse by Warburtons.
Charlotte Spencer
Senior Creative Account Manager
-
Gabriella works on national campaigns across an array of B2B sectors. With a focus on the built environment, biotech, and professional services, she uses her broad experience in copywriting to bring content to life across all her accounts. She is drawn to large scale regeneration projects, always creating buzz for the latest trends in placemaking.
When she’s not at her desk, you’ll find Gabriella restaurant hopping around Manchester or whipping up her favourite recipes at home.
Gabriella Elia
Senior Account Executive
-
Em graduated from the University of Salford with a degree in Journalism with Public Relations in 2023 and spent a year training with Weber Shandwick before joining the Influential team. She currently works across a range of B2B and B2C clients, including N8 Research Partnership, Merlin Entertainments, and National Lottery operator, Allwyn.
When she’s not popping champagne corks for lottery winner photoshoots, securing media opportunities for clients, or drafting copy, you will often find her perusing a charity shop or at a thrifting event!
Em Shaw
Account Executive
-
Paula brings international experience to her role at Influential. Since joining in early 2024, she has worked on a variety of B2B and B2C campaigns for notable clients including Grant Thornton, Downing, and Liverpool ONE, and played a key role in the launch campaign for The Halyard Hotel in Liverpool.
Her background spans both PR and marketing on both sides of the Atlantic and is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian.
Paula Herrasti
PR Account Executive
-
Katie joined Influential in 2024 after completing a master’s degree in Public Relations and Digital Communications, during which she wrote her dissertation on sports crisis communications. She works primarily across B2B accounts at Influential, including Palatine, Mayfield and HaulageHub. Her responsibilities include copywriting, liaising with the media and collating coverage.
Katie Griffiths
PR Account Executive
-
With a background in brand identity and motion design, Aleksandar is a graphic designer with diverse range of experience in both traditional and digital media.
This enables him to create work which captures the essence of a brand and connects with audiences.
His motion design skills allow him to create dynamic and engaging animations that bring brand stories to life. His work has been recognised with a Pencil award from D&AD.
Aleksandar Andonov
Designer
-
Mark is an experienced finance professional with 20 years of experience in Finance and Management Accounting.
Having joined Influential in 2011 he has played an important role in our growth and achieved a vision of helping to double the size of the company over this period.
In his position, Mark is responsible for all aspects of the accounting function, financial planning and business decision support, full monthly and year-end accounts production, audit and compliance. Mark is an established member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, holding a CIMA Dip MA.
Mark Whittle
Finance Manager
-
Lewis works across both B2B and B2C accounts at Influential with a particular focus on property, construction and visitor attractions.
He joined the agency after catching the communications bug through the Government’s Kickstart scheme, which saw him rapidly gain experience across media relations and client services.
His responsibilities include producing content, liaising with the media and reporting on the success of the agency’s communications campaigns.
Lewis Hinds
Account Executive
-
Sara lives and breathes business strategy.
Coming from a media industry background, Sara ran large-scale divisions of Trinity Mirror’s regional offering and was Commercial Managing Director UK for the group.
Sara brings a wealth of commercial acumen and experience to assist clients in identifying market opportunities and unlocking growth potential and develops robust strategies to combat business challenges.
Sara Wilde
Managing Director
-
James has been working in agency land for 10 years now, working with global banks, new-to-market sports brands and one of the UK’s biggest burger joints.
Having led, built and managed new business teams across the North West, he is responsible for strategy and client relationships in the agency.
When not in the office he can be found at the rugby club, dreaming of ski slopes, walking the dog or practising his (amateur) photography skills.
James Summerscales
Client & Brand Strategy Director
-
Viv has been a creative director for over 25 years, working across a wide range of global brands both in the UK and abroad. And picking up awards for his work in both the UK and New York.
Viv leads our branding briefs and is passionate about creating rational and emotional connections between people and brands.
Outside of the agency world, Viv can be found up a windy mountain-top in North Wales, mucking out on his small holding. If you listen closely, he can often be heard telling the animals that the ads were better back in the day.
Viv Griffiths
Creative Director
-
With over 25 years of experience, Karen runs customer and audience insights on behalf of brands – guiding them through findings and delivering informed strategies.
Karen has led several wide-scale public consultations including Greater Manchester Healthier Together and Everton Football Club’s The People’s Project for their new stadium.
She is the driving force behind our key behaviour change campaigns. Including ‘Getting Under the Skin’ and helping the NHS reach ethnic communities, and ‘Simple Things’ which focused on Public Health Directors increasing handwashing and sanitisation.
Karen Swan
Marketing Director
-
Chris is an award-winning PR operator who has over 25 years of experience working in the media, which he developed in London and the North West.
Chris moved into public relations in 2005, having spent the earlier part of his career as a features writer in print journalism. He represents major brands in the built environment, professional services and biotech and leads PR for the agency.
Chris Hulme
PR Director
-
Jane is an award-winning journalist with more than 15 years of experience in the PR industry.
Hugely creative, Jane is the person to turn to if you’re looking for big ideas which are guaranteed to get your brand noticed. She is held in the highest regard by all her clients and journalistic peers, who describe her as “just having that special something to make things happen!”
Away from the office, you can be guaranteed to spot Jane either paddle-boarding around our coastlines or throwing ridiculously heavy weights around in a gym!
Jane Woodhead
UK Consumer PR Director
-
Duncan is an experienced consumer research expert, specialising in FMCG (Fast-moving consumer goods) with a particular emphasis on groceries (including; food, drink and household items).
For over 25 years, Duncan has worked with some of the UK’s largest agencies. Including TNS Sofres where he started his career as a graduate, rising to Associate Director and then to SGA International (Simon Godfrey Associates). More recently Duncan has worked with Adelphi International Research and Mott MacDonald’s as a project director.
In his spare time, Duncan enjoys cooking for those lucky enough to make one of his famous dinner parties!
Duncan Swan
Head of Research
-
Laura has extensive PR experience after over 10 years of working for agencies in both Liverpool and London.
She has worked with a wide range of clients for world-class events and award-winning campaigns for high-profile consumer brands. Such as The London 2012 Olympics and the 2014 Ryder Cup and household names Marks & Spencer and Heinz. As well as leading businesses such as First Utility, Bruntwood and the national law firm, Shoosmiths.
Across B2B and B2C sectors, Laura is expertly placed to deliver strategically-led campaigns – with an impressive phonebook filled with regional, national and international journalists to assist.
Laura Harris
PR Director
-
Chris has worked in digital marketing and communications and online technology for over 20 years.
He has delivered creative and innovative campaigns for many clients across a wide variety of sectors and platforms, from Premier League football teams to global law firms.
Chris is always looking to understand and embrace new technology to help businesses and organisations deliver genuine ROI on their digital campaigns.
Chris Burgess
Digital Account Director
-
Kelly has over eight years of experience in creating content strategies and copy for a range of industries.
Her clients include household names in home DIY and popular fashion brands alongside food & bev giants. Right through to large players in the fin-tech and construction spaces, she understands how to get your messages in front of the right audience.
In her free time, you’ll find her cooking up a storm in the kitchen, drinking rosé regardless of the season and listening to Elvis.
Kelly Cunningham
Head of Content
-
Connor is a graphic designer with a passion for typography and traditional print work.
He has a knack for pushing creative boundaries and finding new ways to bring ideas to life. His experience at Influential has allowed him to develop and visualise concepts and branding, and social media collateral for a diverse range of clients. Who include NHS England, Invest Liverpool City Region, and CHAMPS.
Connor has a strong ability to adapt his skills to different clients and industries, while still maintaining his unique creative approach.
Connor Beighton
Designer
-
A former journalist, Steph has worked in PR and comms for around 10 years, managing both consumer and B2B campaigns.
Her experience includes working across a range of sectors, such as retail and leisure; health; hospitality; property; and the legal sector. Where she creates and implements strategies to achieve the best possible results for her clients.
At Influential, Steph works predominantly with consumer and public sector clients. She most recently led PR activity for the public health campaign Simple Things, a behaviour change initiative to help reduce the spread of illnesses.
Stephanie Cureton
Account Director
-
Tom has worked in public relations since 2010, delivering PR campaigns for a broad range of clients across the public and private sectors.
His clients have included the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, Swinton Insurance, the Construction Industry Trading Board, architects BDP and the Pew Research Centre.
Tom Carlin
Account Director
-
Daniel Ash
Account Director
-
Sarah has over ten years of experience in PR, marketing and social media management.
She’s worked with a spectrum of B2B and B2C brands across various sectors, including retail, professional services, fashion, hospitality and cybersecurity. All of which involved planning, developing and implementing bespoke PR strategies.
At Influential, she works predominantly on B2B accounts, including Morgan Sindall and Grant Thornton.
When she’s not busy with work, she’s usually planning her next holiday in the sun or weekend away!
Sarah Gilmour
Senior Account Director
-
Chris is the former Business Editor of the Manchester Evening News and Managing Editor of TheBusinessDesk.com.
Following his 20 years in regional business journalism he has been with Influential for more than seven years. Bringing his skills and invaluable media knowledge and contacts to bear on behalf of clients in the private equity, corporate finance, real estate and regeneration sectors in particular.
He has significant specialist experience in helping entrepreneurs and fast-growing businesses raise their profile as they look to attract investment or new ownership. He also assists clients with brand and reputation management as part of the agency’s crisis PR service.
Chris Barry
Associate Director
- Charlotte is responsible for the daily project management of campaigns and the initial point of contact for clients, designers and suppliers.She possesses a strong background in client services and has helped to deliver both online and offline projects from creative through to completion for a wide range of national and international clients.Some of who include Cadbury Ice Cream, Princes, Slater and Gordon, Jewson and Newburn Bakehouse by Warburtons.
Charlotte Spencer
Senior Creative Account Manager
-
Gabriella works on national campaigns across an array of B2B sectors. With a focus on the built environment, biotech, and professional services, she uses her broad experience in copywriting to bring content to life across all her accounts. She is drawn to large scale regeneration projects, always creating buzz for the latest trends in placemaking.
When she’s not at her desk, you’ll find Gabriella restaurant hopping around Manchester or whipping up her favourite recipes at home.
Gabriella Elia
Senior Account Executive
-
Em graduated from the University of Salford with a degree in Journalism with Public Relations in 2023 and spent a year training with Weber Shandwick before joining the Influential team. She currently works across a range of B2B and B2C clients, including N8 Research Partnership, Merlin Entertainments, and National Lottery operator, Allwyn.
When she’s not popping champagne corks for lottery winner photoshoots, securing media opportunities for clients, or drafting copy, you will often find her perusing a charity shop or at a thrifting event!
Em Shaw
Account Executive
-
Paula brings international experience to her role at Influential. Since joining in early 2024, she has worked on a variety of B2B and B2C campaigns for notable clients including Grant Thornton, Downing, and Liverpool ONE, and played a key role in the launch campaign for The Halyard Hotel in Liverpool.
Her background spans both PR and marketing on both sides of the Atlantic and is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian.
Paula Herrasti
PR Account Executive
-
Katie joined Influential in 2024 after completing a master’s degree in Public Relations and Digital Communications, during which she wrote her dissertation on sports crisis communications. She works primarily across B2B accounts at Influential, including Palatine, Mayfield and HaulageHub. Her responsibilities include copywriting, liaising with the media and collating coverage.
Katie Griffiths
PR Account Executive
-
With a background in brand identity and motion design, Aleksandar is a graphic designer with diverse range of experience in both traditional and digital media.
This enables him to create work which captures the essence of a brand and connects with audiences.
His motion design skills allow him to create dynamic and engaging animations that bring brand stories to life. His work has been recognised with a Pencil award from D&AD.
Aleksandar Andonov
Designer
-
Mark is an experienced finance professional with 20 years of experience in Finance and Management Accounting.
Having joined Influential in 2011 he has played an important role in our growth and achieved a vision of helping to double the size of the company over this period.
In his position, Mark is responsible for all aspects of the accounting function, financial planning and business decision support, full monthly and year-end accounts production, audit and compliance. Mark is an established member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, holding a CIMA Dip MA.
Mark Whittle
Finance Manager
-
Lewis works across both B2B and B2C accounts at Influential with a particular focus on property, construction and visitor attractions.
He joined the agency after catching the communications bug through the Government’s Kickstart scheme, which saw him rapidly gain experience across media relations and client services.
His responsibilities include producing content, liaising with the media and reporting on the success of the agency’s communications campaigns.
Lewis Hinds
Account Executive

OUR CULTURE
We’re an agency that prides itself on its collaborative culture.
We provide opportunities for everyone to be involved in. From ideation right through to delivery, we find this helps us to grow as individuals and flourish as a team.
It keeps our work authentic, our team curious and the work we do fresh.
We’re guided by a set of six simple values.
Creativity is intelligence having fun

Be open & listen well

Make a difference by what you do & how

Be curious, use insight to shape ideas

Think big, but sweat the small stuff

Act with energy & integrity

Work together to win


We’re only as good as who we work with
Recruitment
If you’re someone who wants to work in a respectful and fun environment that values individuality and diversity, then Influential is for you.
Our plans for the future are ambitious and we have established a creative environment that values individuality and diversity.
From team socials and an extensive annual leave allowance to hybrid working and personalised training programmes, employee wellbeing is embedded in all our company benefits.
We’re always on the lookout for people in search of a career that’s rewarding and fast-paced, with the potential for personal growth. So, if you think you have the personality, drive and ethos to match ours then we would love to hear from you.
Check out our current vacancies or email careers@thisisinfluential.com with your CV and portfolio of some of your best work.





multiple disciplines
diverse skillsets
award-winning outcomes
News & Insights

Influential unveils creative brand campaign to end smoking in Cheshire and Merseyside
In a bold move to combat the devastating impact of smoking, Champs Public Health Collaborative, along with NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, has unveiled a campaign aimed at making Cheshire and Merseyside smoke-free by 2030.
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Influential

The Message – from Influential
Our PR team is going to take you backstage into the world of storytelling, audience engagement and campaigns that deliver market profile with a new podcast – The Message.
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Influential

Campaign proves staying healthy is in our hands
An award-winning campaign promoting hand hygiene in Cheshire and Merseyside has resulted in…
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Influential

Building Identity: The Crucial Significance of Branding in the Construction Sector
Construction is a highly competitive industry with numerous players vying for attention. An effective brand strategy allows construction companies to distinguish themselves from competitors…
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Influential

Constructing Success: The Powerful Role of Public Relations in the Construction Sector
Building a positive public image is integral to success in the construction industry. In this article, we explore the significance of PR for construction companies…
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Influential

Unlocking Behaviour Change: The Power of Insight and Motivation
In my years of leading healthcare communications, one truth has remained constant: if you want to change behaviour, you must first understand it. Too often, campaigns launch with a predetermined idea of…
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Influential

Engage, Inspire, Transform: Harnessing Consumer PR for Charitable Impact
In the charity sector, connecting with the public is crucial for raising awareness, driving donations, and building a supportive community. Consumer public relations (PR) plays a vital role in…
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Influential
Brands who have struck gold this St. Patrick’s Day
While most see St. Patrick’s Day as a chance to dress head to toe in green and reclaim their Irish heritage, brands use it to connect with their audience and even show off their cheeky side. With only a short lifespan, budgets and activations can vary. However, the one thing that does remain the same,…
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James Summerscales

Beyond Donations: The Strategic Impact of B2B PR in Charity Work
B2B public relations is essential for building strategic partnerships between charities and businesses. These partnerships can provide charities with vital resources, including…
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Influential

Empowering Change: The Significance of Market Research in the Charity Sector
In the dynamic and ever-evolving charity sector, understanding the landscape, the audience, and the impact of initiatives is crucial for success. Market research and insights play a vital role in…
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Influential

Reaching Hearts and Minds: Digital Marketing’s Significance for Charities
In today’s interconnected world, digital marketing has become an indispensable tool for charities. With the vast reach and targeted precision of online platforms, digital marketing offers unparalleled opportunities for charities to…
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Influential