A former global internal communications lead at Dr Martens and an ex-journalist turned PR specialist have joined Manchester-based brand communications and experience design agency WonderMaker as it continues to build out its senior team.
The agency, which launched earlier this year, has appointed Natalia Ashton-Togher as client and strategy director and Richard Knowles as PR and content director.
Natalia joins after senior roles at Tangerine and STM Agency and brings more than 20 years of experience across brand, communications and client services. Her previous work has included projects for Airbus, the NHS, Dr Martens and Booking.com, spanning employer value proposition development, leadership communications, employee engagement campaigns and live experiences.
Richard joins following a three-year spell at North West law firm Napthens, where he managed PR and internal communications activity and helped launch two podcast series. His career spans more than 25 years supporting brands including Volkswagen, WD-40, Persimmon Homes and Liverpool FC.
WonderMaker was launched in April by former Bugler Smith founder Lee Ashton, who said the appointments would support the agency’s next stage of growth.
Natalia said: “It’s a really exciting time to be joining WonderMaker, as we continue to support businesses with defining an employer value proposition, building leadership visibility, creating a standout employee event and developing a communications strategy that connects local, national and global teams.
“AI and digital platforms are changing how employees and candidates discover, research and form opinions about organisations, which means businesses need communications partners who understand not only what’s happening internally, but also the wider cultural and technological shifts shaping behaviour externally.
“In a world dominated by AI and a multitude of digital platforms, it’s also vital we keep creating in-person experiences that move people to think, feel and act differently.
“I’m looking forward to helping businesses reach new audiences, by crafting content and strategies that align with people’s values.”
Richard added: “As the communications age continues to shift, it’s providing businesses and teams with new variables on how best to deliver key messages that drive a measurable difference with people.
“With this comes the need for businesses to combine strategic communications, immersive experiences and integrated storytelling to create work that resonates with people and drives measurable impact.”
WonderMaker combines brand communications with experience design and operates across employee experiences, brand activations, launch events, communications strategy, internal communications and campaigns.
Founder Lee Ashton said: “Adding the calibre of people like Natalia and Richard will support our strategic growth plans, as we continue to provide clients with moments that travel.
“They will enable clients to unlock the wealth of opportunities available, as they seek results that don’t just look good or feel good in the room, they move people and drive actions.”
