City of Culture marketing chief quits after four months

ONE of the key members of the team responsible for delivering Hull’s year as the UK City of Culture in 2017 has resigned – just four months after starting her full-time role.

Marketing director Alison Flint, who was head of marketing for Liverpool Culture Company during its year as European City of Culture in 2008, has accepted a job back in the North West and will leave her position in Hull at the end of this month.

Hull 2017’s chief executive Martin Green thanked Ms Flint for her work to date and said she had “made her decision with grace and at the right time for the project”.

Ms Flint started working with the city of culture team last November before increasing her involvement to a full-time role in January. In a statement, the company said “she has ensured the project is on track to deliver in 2017 with major elements of the marketing plan, including the development of the brand identity and the digital communications strategy, moving ahead on time and on budget”.

Ms Flint added: “This has been a difficult decision but it is the right time to take it as the team comes out of the planning phase and works towards delivery.
 
“I have very much enjoyed my time with this hugely experienced and committed team and wish them the best of luck for what I know will be a tremendous year that captures the fantastic spirit of the people and city of Hull.”

The recruitment process for a new marketing and communications director will begin immediately and Phil Batty, who is director of education and legacy will step in during the interim period.

* The article originally said Ms Flint was in a full-time role for 41 days, based on incorrect information from Hull 2017.