The North’s Creative Revolution: Why Marketing, Digital, and Creative Talent is Booming

I’ve always had deep roots in the North West of England. Growing up in the small village of Norley near Frodsham, home to none other than Gary Barlow and Martin Lewis. I never imagined how much the region would transform. Fast forward 30 years, and there I was in 2009, standing on the fifth floor of BBC Quay House in MediaCity, hard hat on, looking out at a landscape on the brink of change.

Beside me was Peter Salmon, Director of BBC North, electrified by the sheer potential of the BBC’s move to Salford. His vision was clear: anchor the BBC in Salford and create a ripple effect of opportunity, talent, and growth throughout Manchester and the North. And that’s exactly what happened. BBC North wasn’t just a relocation, it was a catalyst that turned the North of England into a powerhouse for marketing, creative, and digital talent.

From Manchester and Leeds to Newcastle and Liverpool, the North has become a dynamic hub for creative industries. Manchester, often called the UK’s “second city” for digital and creative, is now a magnet for global brands and agencies. Heavyweights like BBC, ITV, and McCann have established strong presences, attracting top-tier talent from across the country.

Leeds is carving out its own niche, emerging as a leader in digital marketing, fintech, and e-commerce. Companies like Sky Bet and ASDA’s digital division are driving innovation and making Leeds a go-to destination for digital professionals.

The North is brimming with creative talent, and universities are playing a key role in supplying skilled professionals. Institutions like Manchester Metropolitan, Leeds Beckett, and Newcastle University offer specialised courses in digital marketing, UX/UI design, and advertising, bridging the skills gap and fuelling industry growth.

I’m especially proud that my son is part of this wave. A recent graduate from Northumbria University, he’s now carving out a career in social media at a thriving sports e-commerce business in Greater Manchester.

It’s not just big agencies making waves. Freelancers, independent creatives, and boutique agencies are thriving, offering fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. The rise of co-working spaces, incubators, and networking events has supercharged collaboration, making it easier than ever to connect, share ideas, and build businesses.

Companies are increasingly shifting northward, and it’s easy to see why:

1. Cost-Effectiveness – Lower business costs and a more affordable cost of living compared to London make scaling up easier and more sustainable.
2. A Deep Talent Pool – The North is packed with highly skilled professionals in SEO, content marketing, PPC, branding, and social media.
3. A Strong Business Ecosystem – A mix of established agencies, startups, and corporate brands provides a collaborative, innovative environment.
4. Digital Transformation at Speed – AI, automation, and data-driven marketing strategies are accelerating growth and innovation across the region.

Despite rapid growth, retaining top talent remains a challenge, with many professionals still tempted by London’s perceived career opportunities. But that’s changing. With more investment in infrastructure, improved connectivity, and the rise of hybrid work, the North is becoming a compelling alternative to the capital.

Looking ahead, remote work, sustainability in marketing, influencer-driven strategies, and AI-powered campaigns will shape the industry’s next wave. Businesses that adapt quickly will be at the forefront of this transformation.

The North is no longer playing second fiddle, it’s leading the charge. With continuous investment, a growing talent pool, and a culture of innovation, the region is redefining the UK’s marketing, creative, and digital industries.

For brands, agencies, and professionals, now is the time to tap into this thriving ecosystem. The North isn’t just rising, it’s revolutionising the creative landscape. Are you ready to be part of it?