
Business Beats Cancer Manchester brings together business leaders in the Manchester area to raise vital funds for life-saving cancer research.
The board have chosen two incredible projects to fund in their first year, both based at the Cancer Research UK research facilities in Manchester.
Half of the funds raised will go to Carolyn Dive’s work in the Manchester labs. This work looks specifically at Lung Cancer in the more economically deprived areas of the city, using liquid biopsy tests to hopefully catch cancer earlier, therefore increasing chances of survival.
The board have chosen this project because lung cancer is currently the biggest single killer in Greater Manchester.
The second project that the board will be fundraising for is run by Dr Jamie Blundell and Professor Rob Bristow who are focusing their efforts on early diagnosis. This research is looking at our immune system and our immune cells to find patterns that may signify a higher chance of cancer developing in the future.
If successful, this study would allow doctors to look for these patterns in the future, therefore diagnosing cancer earlier and giving everyone a much greater chance of survival.

Jon has over 25 years’ experience in the advertising industry with the last 13 as CEO of TrunkBBI. He has been personally touched by cancer and feels businesses need to financially support research and awareness campaigns to help combat the disease.

Steve Bland is a multi-award-winning radio and podcast producer and presenter. He co-presented the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C which was launched by his first wife alongside Dame Deborah James and Lauren Mahon.

Cameron is the co-founder and Managing Director of Platinum Recruitment with over 20 years of recruitment experience. Cameron is passionate about increasing awareness of how businesses can support staff impacted by cancer.

Kate is a proud northerner with 25 years experience in the corporate sports travel and events sector. She has experienced the exceptional facilities in Manchester that support cancer diagnosis and treatment and recognises the city's role as a leading hub for cancer care.

Stephen is the co-founder and Chief Vision Officer of Positive Planet. Stephen has a wealth of experience in senior sales, marketing and operational roles.

Lisa Morton is founder and CEO of Roland Dransfield PR and co-founder Purposeful Podcasts. "Family members, friends and colleagues have been lost or affected by cancer and so I wanted to do what I can to support fund this vital research".

Oliver Clarke is the Managing Director of Baa Bar Group continuing the legacy of his mother, Elaine Clarke OBE. Having experienced personal losses due to cancer, Oliver feels strongly about the importance of research and funding to prevent and treat the disease.

Andrew is the MD of Sancus Lending UK. He has seen the impact of cancer on family, friends, colleagues and clients and believes that the vibrant business network in Manchester can be a force for good against the disease.

Originally from Vancouver, Theresa has extensive experience in global advertising and marketing across B2B, B2C, and healthcare sectors. Driven by her experience of seeing cancer affect many loved ones, she is eager to help raise awareness and funds for new treatments.
Vreni Henry
Kathryn Cresswell
The Business Beats Cancer Manchester board is one of a growing network of boards across the UK. Each board organises an exciting annual fundraising event that brings together businesses in its local area to beat cancer.

Bringing together business leaders from cities across the UK to host prestigious fundraising events and support life-saving cancer research.