Factory International recruits ‘born and bred’ northerner

BBC News’ director of business PAULA STRINGER is to join the organisation behind Manchester’s Aviva Studios.

Stringer becomes chief operating officer at Factory International, which also runs biennial arts showcase, Manchester International Festival.

She joins artistic director and chief executive JOHN MCGRATH, creative director LOW KEE HONG, and chief commercial officer SCOTT MCVITTIE on the Factory International executive team.

Based in Manchester for nearly three decades, Stringer has held positions including chief executive of charity Christians Against Poverty and controller of production for BBC Sport.

“I’m northern born and bred and have spent the last three decades working in and around Manchester,” said Stringer. “Across that time — in broadcasting, charity and creative organisations — my work has focused on helping complex, creative environments deliver big ambitions with sustainability and with care.

“The chance to bring all of that experience together in a place that means a lot to me personally is an amazing opportunity.”

DAVE MOUTREY, director of culture and creative industries at Manchester City Council, added: “I am delighted with the appointment of Paula Stringer to this vital role at the heart of Factory International’s leadership team.

Paula brings substantial knowledge, experience and skills to the organisation and I know that she will be a great asset to both Factory International and the wider cultural ecology in the city.”