There’s a new connection powering Manchester’s startup scene — and it all started at an MYP event.

We’re excited to share that Katy Leeson, former Managing Director at Social Chain and CEO of Relentless Media, has joined fast-growing PropTech business Mr Investa as a non-executive director. But this isn’t just a typical appointment — it’s a story rooted in community, conversation, and shared ambition.

🌐 A Connection Made at MYP

 

Katy and Mr Investa founder Ryan Hughes first met in February 2022 at our Future of Digital panel at PKB Angel Gardens, where Katy joined us as a guest speaker. The event brought together some of Manchester’s leading digital minds — but it also planted the seed for what’s now a major strategic partnership.

Their initial conversation, sparked over post-panel coffees and community buzz, turned into a lasting dialogue about brand, innovation, and digital storytelling. Two years later, they’re joining forces to shape the next phase of one of Manchester’s most exciting tech-enabled property businesses.

🏡 What is Mr Investa?

 

Mr Investa is a MediaCity-based PropTech company reimagining how investors buy and sell tenanted buy-to-let properties. Built during the pandemic, the platform allows landlords to trade fully-let properties with all the admin — from 3D virtual tours to legal docs — handled digitally and transparently.

It’s part tech platform, part investment marketplace, and part mission: Ryan’s vision is all about making rental transitions seamless, especially for tenants. As he puts it, “Why should a good tenant be kicked out just because a landlord wants to sell?”

Some quick facts:

  • 💻 Tech-enabled virtual viewings, live streams & digital offers

  • 🌍 65% of buyers are international (Asia & UAE especially)

  • 🏘️ £15m+ in completed property sales

  • ✅ SEIS/EIS Advance Assurance secured from HMRC

  • 🧩 Recognised by the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter

Katy joins Mr Investa at an exciting inflection point, bringing with her deep strategic experience.

After years at the helm of major digital brands, Katy’s now venturing into the world of coaching, public speaking and consulting, helping businesses clarify their messaging, and create standout strategies that land with investors and audiences alike.

At Mr Investa, Katy will lead on:

  • Brand storytelling

  • Strategic communications

  • Investor messaging

  • Public profile building

“There’s a bold vision at Mr Investa — one that’s grounded in purpose,” says Katy. “I’m excited to help tell that story to the right people, in the right way.”

Ryan adds:

“Katy’s experience building brand equity at scale is second to none. We’re thrilled to have her on board — and proud that the first conversation happened through MYP.”

🚀 What This Means for the MYP Community

This collaboration is more than just a great business move — it’s a reminder of why we do what we do at MYP.

From panel events and social mixers to strategy sessions and city spotlights, we believe in bringing brilliant people into the same space — because we know the best ideas, partnerships and opportunities happen when they do.

This one started over coffee at PKB Angel Gardens. Where will the next one start?

 

Want to connect with Katy, Ryan, or explore PropTech + brand strategy in Manchester?

Keep an eye out — we might just bring the conversation back to where it began.

Let us know if you’d like to feature your business story with MYP.