WHO ARE YOU?

Russell Craig

WHAT DO YOU DO?

Group Head of External Communications for the Manchester Airports Group, the owners of Manchester, East Midlands, Bournemouth and Humberside Airports.

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN MANCHESTER PRIDE?

Although I was born and still live in Glossop, Derbyshire with my partner Andy of 13 years, I consider myself an honorary Mancunian. Pride is such an important event in the city's calendar that when I heard about the chance to join the board, I applied and was successful. I've worked for the Manchester Airport Group since 2003, so I also understand how important tourism is to the region and Pride has evolved into an internationally renowned event that brings new, ever-growing numbers of visitors to the region. To have the chance to combine my personal and professional interests to support Pride in raising as much money as possible for some amazing causes is a great opportunity and one that I relish.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A BOARD MEMBER?

Since April 2011 so I'm a newbie.

WHAT ARE YOUR ASPIRATIONS FOR MANCHESTER PRIDE?

I'm naturally competitive so I want Manchester Pride to keep its crown as the best LGBT event in the UK if not Europe! Our city is one of the most diverse and tolerant in the World and when combined with Manchester's incredible ability to punch well above its weight, that is a very a realistic aim. Pride is a charity so maximising the fundraising is the principle measure of its success. We ought to be able to increase the donations year after year by organising a huge breadth of activity and constantly engaging with new individuals, organisations and businesses to keep Manchester Pride at the top of its game.