Member Spotlight: Ben Fowler, Director, Alternate Experiences

Our member spotlight feature gives you the chance to learn a little more about one of the pro-manchester community. This week it’s Ben Fowler, Director, Alternate Experiences. We use games to create better experiences, from teambuilding to training and events…

Career highlight?

Taking our very first sale as a business. I couldn’t believe someone had just parted with money to pay for our services! It felt like years in the making.

Why do you love pro-manchester?

It creates a real sense of community among Manchester businesses, and builds relationships between them that otherwise wouldn’t exist

What are you reading at the moment?

“No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention” by Reed Hastings

What are you watching at the moment?

Succession. An incredible TV programme!

Favourite band or artist?

I’m a lover of electronica but struggle for a favourite. Right now, I’m enjoying Sir Spyro.

Hidden / Useless Talent?

I can touch my nose with my tongue, and used to be able to touch my elbow with my tongue.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Favourite meeting place in Manchester?

A tie between Salut Wine Bar and Café Beermoth.

Favourite place to visit in Manchester?

Alexandra Park.

Best concert / gig / performance you’ve been to?

Jakwob at Bestival 2010. Not that big a gig, but an electric atmosphere in the sweatiest tent I’ve ever been in that captured a moment.

If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes, whose would they be? Why?

One of my competitors, to steal all their trade secrets. It’s just good business, no?

What are you looking forward to most in the next 12 months?

Seeing how our games and services develop for the emerging workforce challenges, particularly the balance of virtual, hybrid and face to face working. I know, I’m boring.

Do you write a blog that you’d like us to share?

Not a blog, but a podcast I run with my childhood friend on what business skills games can teach you, from Monopoly Deal to The Sims! https://altexperiences.co.uk/entertain-me/podcast/