THE expertise of a Bury-based “digital doyen” is being recognised and harnessed.

For well-known local businessman Tony Tickle is joining Vision+Media as digital and creative services manager. He will help the company support this important and dynamic sector in the North West.

Vision+Media works on behalf of the digital and creative industries in the North West to create a world class digital and creative economy within the region. They provide strategic leadership, help to build businesses and develop skills and talent.

Industry expert Tony, who is also managing director at Summerseat-based interactive specialists T3D, will join Vision+Media on a temporary basis. During the next six months, he will work three days a week out of the MediaCityUK offices.

Using his network of business and industry contacts Tony will be tasked with building on Vision+Media’s sector influence and position the company at the heart of the digital and creative scene in the region.

Paul Taylor, director of business delivery at Vision+Media, said: “Tony has been working at the cutting edge of the digital world since 1992 and has specialist knowledge of social media, the digital and creative industries and the web.”

He added: “He is uniquely positioned to lead digital initiatives, build networks and help support companies to take advantage of new and developing market opportunities.”

Tony commented: “It’s an exciting time for the North West’s digital and creative community with MediaCityUK, BBC North and the Sharp Project all bringing new opportunities for the sector. Vision+Media is at the heart of this excitement, so I am delighted that I can use my 27 years of industry experience to help deliver targeted events, training and advice.”