Spotify is to open a sales hub in Manchester, it has been announced.
The music and podcast streaming giant has said the move is part of its drive to expand partnerships and opportunities in the UK.
The team will be led by director of sales Clare Beddow and composed of two full-time account directors.
READ MORE: Missguided puts 140 jobs at risk
It will also have a new full-time account manager starting in a few months.
Spotify added that more roles are set to be created as the team expands.
A statement said: "This is the first time that a team has been created for Spotify UK and Ireland’s advertising business that has the specific remit to identify and drive revenue from partnerships with agencies and clients outside of London.
"Digital audio has come of age in the UK, and audio is becoming a bigger part of the advertising mix.
"According to Edison Research, 75% listen to online audio monthly - rising to 81% for 16-34 year olds representing a huge opportunity for advertising.
"Spotify is at the forefront of driving innovation in audio advertising and exciting the marketplace about Spotify Advertising.
"Advertising will represent at least 20% of revenue over the next few years and Spotify is aggressively scaling its team across Europe with the Manchester sales hub a significant part of this expansion."
Sally Keane, Head of Advertising, Spotify Northern Europe UK, added: "2021 marked an inflection point for Spotify where we became a dual revenue stream company. We are aggressively scaling our team in the UK as well as other key markets in EMEA, and we’re excited to build our presence in Manchester as it presents strong potential.
"We know the importance of having people on the ground who really understand the region, to be able to continue to deliver for our advertising partners. We expect to bring you more updates about an office space in due course."
