ThoughtWorks cemented its commitment to developing economic ties between Manchester and China with the opening of a new R&D and software delivery centre in the city of Wuhan.
The global tech consultancy also welcomed a delegation from Manchester, led by Manchester City Council leader Sir Richard Leese.
The GM-Wuhan City Circle Summit, which took place in China from 26th to 28th February, included representatives from universities and businesses across Greater Manchester discussing and collaborating on policy, trade and investment discussions to further Manchester-China relations.
The delegation was joined by Mark Collin, director of ThoughtWorks Ventures, who announced further commitment to the company’s software delivery centre in Wuhan and investment in the region. It was also announced that Collin has taken the role of on the board of the Manchester China Forum.
ThoughtWorks’ involvement will support the forum in driving forward its digital agenda.
One of the first major initiatives that ThoughtWorks and Manchester China Forum are developing is a cooperation with Chinese social media platform WeChat. ThoughtWorks is working with WeChat to introduce local language WeChat digital ‘channels’ to help Chinese visitors to Manchester to make the most of their time in the city.
“Tens of thousands of Chinese visitors are arriving in Manchester every year on business, to study, or just to enjoy the city,” Collin said. “By providing tailored WeChat channels to them on arrival, we will help to deliver great digital experiences using their familiar social channels.”
Rhys Whalley, executive director of Manchester China Forum, added: “We look forward to working with ThoughtWorks throughout 2018 to continue to develop a strong China focussed digital strategy supporting both trade and investment and creating a more China-ready digital environment in Manchester.”
Sir Richard Leese said: “I was very encouraged to see ThoughtWorks opening their new office in Wuhan, given their expertise around digital innovation. I look forward to seeing how they continue to progress collaboration between our two cities.”