How being a pro-manchester member has helped Deloitte grow, connect and develop across the region

Sunday, 11th October 2026

We recently caught up with David O’Leary, Partner at Deloitte North West, to find out what the team values most about being a longstanding member of the pro-manchester growth network.

Building connections across Greater Manchester

Being part of the pro-manchester growth network has created valuable opportunities for our people at all levels. It has given those coming through the business, who are looking to develop their networking skills, the chance to connect with like-minded, ambitious professionals from across Greater Manchester.

What has always stood out is the breadth of opportunities pro-manchester creates for its members. Through its extensive programme of events and sector committees, businesses can meet industry leaders to develop their knowledge and build meaningful connections across a wide range of sectors.

Supporting sustainable and inclusive growth

While many events focus on areas directly relevant to our work in the professional and financial services sectors, we’ve experienced great value from those that champion wider topics. Factors like equality, diversity and inclusion, sustainability and the green economy and AI are all becoming increasingly important to many organisations.

These conversations support businesses in understanding that successful growth is about more than financial achievements but creating organisations that are resilient, sustainable and inclusive, all helping to shape the future of our city region.

Developing the next generation of talent

pro-manchester events are unlike many other networking events across the region. They always provide a welcoming and supportive environment where people can build confidence, particularly those that are earlier in their careers.

Hosted at different venues and organisations across the city and the wider region, the atmosphere makes it easy for attendees to spark conversations with new people and strengthen their networking skills which is key for future success. Events give individuals the opportunity to find their own networking styles, while forging connections that often help them later in their careers.

Opportunity to share insights

Over the years, we’ve hosted several events at our Deloitte North West offices, which have been a fantastic way to share insights and contribute to important discussions happening across the region’s business community.

The events have provided invaluable development opportunities for Deloitte team members, helping strengthen their public speaking and presentation skills by taking part as panellists. By allowing us to share our experiences and perspectives with the region’s most ambitious businesses and decision-makers, they have also boosted Deloitte’s profile across Greater Manchester.

A network that supports sustainable growth for all businesses

Sam, Nicola and the wider pro-manchester team have built strong relationships with our partners and leadership team over the years. They’ve taken the time to understand our ambitions and priorities, and how we want to continue growing across the region.

Through these relationships, they’ve helped introduce us to new organisations, strengthen existing connections and open doors to opportunities.

One of pro-manchester’s greatest strengths is its ability to bring together organisations of all sizes and from every sector. Whether you’re a start-up looking to build your first connections, a scale-up identifying growth opportunities or a large corporation wanting to strengthen regional presence, pro-manchester’s events, development programmes and networking opportunities year-round add real value to your business and people.

Ultimately, pro-manchester plays a unique role in bringing together ambitious businesses that want to grow, collaborate and help shape the future of Greater Manchester. Being part of the network for many years has delivered real value for Deloitte as a business and for our people.

To find out more about pro-manchester membership, get in touch with the team via [email protected].