At just 18 years old, for the last month, Ella McNeill has been playing a key role in shaping how people experience one of the UK’s most vibrant destinations. As the newest member of the Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership (LCRDP) team, Ella joins us as our new Communications Assistant, bringing a fresh perspective, creativity, and undeniable passion for her home city.
Raised in Liverpool’s Speke district and previously working with the Liverpool City Council Communications team, Ella jumped at the opportunity to join LCRDP – a natural next step in her career journey. “It felt like the perfect fit,” she says. “A chance to promote the city I love, while developing my skills in digital marketing and communications.”
Ella’s role sees her working across the VisitLiverpool brand – one of the region’s most visible and vital platforms for attracting and inspiring visitors. From creating content and uploading events to liaising with local businesses and supporting city-wide campaigns, no two days are quite the same.
“I love seeing how VisitLiverpool’s content resonates with people,” Ella explains. “Whether it’s someone planning their first visit or a local discovering something new – being part of that experience is really exciting.”
Her time with LCRDP so far has offered a behind-the-scenes view of the scale and complexity of Liverpool’s visitor economy. “I was surprised by how much goes on behind the scenes. From supporting independents to delivering major campaigns, it’s all about collaboration. It really made me appreciate how important communication and teamwork are – not just in our team but across the whole city region.”
One standout moment for Ella has been getting involved with the buzz around BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sefton Park. “I recently interviewed students to hear their views about the event and loved it,” she says. “Hearing their excitement showed just how much something like this means to local young people.”
She’s just as enthusiastic when it comes to showing visitors around the city she calls home. When asked for a must-visit location, her top pick is the iconic waterfront: “It’s stunning at sunset – you’ve got the museums, Royal Albert Dock, and just walking along the Mersey is special.” And while Lark Lane may no longer be Liverpool’s best-kept secret, Ella still champions it as a go-to gem, especially with the arrival of new spots like Bamboo Brunch.
Ask Ella which Liverpool moment she’d love to witness first-hand, and it’s no surprise that music and history come into play. “I’d love to see The Beatles play The Cavern Club before they were famous – or go back to when you could sail from Liverpool to New York. Imagine the stories!”
Ella’s story is just beginning – but her journey already reflects something bigger. Her success at LCRDP helps to share our commitment to supporting the next generation of communicators, marketers, and industry professionals. By creating meaningful roles, offering hands-on experience, and supporting young talent, LCRDP continues to invest in the future of the region – and the young people who will help shape it.
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