Obama's former advisor to speak in Manchester

Bruce Katz, a former advisor to President Obama, is scheduled to visit Manchester in November to talk about the role cities should play in shaping the future economy.

The advisor on demographic and market trends will talk about how prospering cities should be allowed more autonomy to boost the economy - a trend he believes is unfolding behind the current US ‘shutdown.’

Katz, who is currently vice president for Washington DC’s policy-shaping Brookings Institution, will be in the UK to launch his new book co-authored with Jennifer Bradley, ‘The Metropolitan Revolution: how cities and metros are fixing our broken politics and fragile economy’.

At a special presentation in Manchester Town Hall, Katz will outline the key themes of the book. In particular, he will explain his theories on devolving central government power, which, whilst focused on the USmodel, could effectively be applied to other major global cities, includingManchester.

Bruce Katz, said: “Beyond the headlines of national dysfunction in theUnited States, there’s a metropolitan revolution going on. Networks of leaders are coming together to move their economies forward”

“Regions that work together, like Manchester, will be better prepared to succeed in the global economy.”

Mike Emmerich, chief executive of New Economy, said: “Bruce Katz has been making it perfectly clear that concepts such as ‘localism’ and ‘devolution’ have a truly international flavour to them.

“We’re delighted that he is placing emphasis on the power of the city, and we look forward to hearing him share his timely views with an audience here in Manchester”.

‘An audience with Bruce Katz’ will take place in Manchester Town Hall at 10am on Friday, 1 November 2013. Speakers include; Valentino Castellani, former mayor of Turin; Alexandra Jones, chief executive of Centre for Cities; and Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council.

Places are strictly limited. If you would like to attend, please emailrsvp@marketingmanchester.com