Marketing Success in 2026

Rachel is MD of Start Communication, a B2B marketing consultancy based in the North West, founded by Rachel in 2016. With a background spanning professional and financial services, tech and social impact, Rachel works with a wide range of businesses and brands, from scaleups to global enterprises, that have something to say and want to do good in the world – helping them find clarity, confidence and sharper messaging.

A CIM Chartered Marketer, Fellow of the Institute of Data & Marketing and certified for High Impact Leadership from UC Berkeley, Rachel combines commercial thinking with academic understanding and strategic execution. Rachel is also a passionate advocate for agile, flexible work that nurtures independent talent, working with a handpicked network of freelancers, fractionals and independents as part of Start’s unique ‘Curated Creatives’ model.

Co-founder of Rumpus, Gareth previously served in the Metropolitan Police Service within New Scotland Yard, where he managed high-level, sensitive communications involving national security. He has since built Rumpus into a leading agency specialising in earned media for purpose-driven clients. Gareth’s expertise spans the built environment and property sectors, with a particular focus on crisis and issues management.

Joel sits on the Pro-Manchester Digital and Creative Committee. He has worked within commercial roles for the last 15 years. Most recently leading the growth of a digital agency in the Northwest. Joel has a proven track record of providing solutions for businesses and working with them to grow sustainably and profitably.

In his current role, Joel is responsible for expanding BIG partnerships digital offerings. With experience across the retail and consumer, finance, medical and education sector. His experience in delivering effective solutions and driving growth makes him the perfect fit to lead our Social Media Mastery panel.

Peter Dickinson is the Founder of KUB and Co-Founder of Vyzion International. He is also a long established business coach and digital marketer and has worked with over 600 businesses from a wide range of sectors over the last 22+ years. Peter has worked with technology for the last 40+ years and holds several degrees including an MBA from the Open University.

Peter and the team launched Vision2Success to help ambitious business owners grow their businesses, disrupt their sectors, and develop a vision that delivers on their goals. Vision2Success offers a range of services, including free workshops, a comprehensive guide to digital marketing in the form of an eBook, free and more in-depth paid online learning, marketing support, and support as outsourced marketing support through our 90-day marketing accelerator programme.