Amanda Lowe, founder and managing director of Birmingham-based agency STORY, has been named Company Leader at the West Midlands Leadership Awards 2026.
The accolade recognises her journey in building one of the region’s most respected communications agencies from the ground up, beginning quite literally at her kitchen table.
Within weeks of launching STORY, she secured a major contract with John Lewis, setting the tone for the ambition and pace that would come to define the agency.
Almost 12 years on, STORY has grown into a fully independent multi-award winning UK agency, collecting more than 30 industry accolades, including the prestigious PRCA UK Medium Consultancy of the Year.
The judges praised Amanda’s entrepreneurial drive and sustained leadership impact. They said:
“Amanda launched STORY from her kitchen table with no investment and went straight into pitching for, and winning, major national contracts. A decade on, her Birmingham agency has won 30+ awards.”
Under Amanda’s leadership, STORY has earned a reputation for telling stories that matter for brave brands including the British Business Bank, Berkeley Group and global accountancy body ACCA.
Amanda said:
“This recognition is important because it reflects the journey we’ve been on as a team and puts a marker in the sand for where we go next. As a fiercely indie agency, I believe our time is now and our best times are ahead.
“STORY tells stories that challenge things. Our PR punk mantra nurtures a questioning curiosity in our team. It’s what got us here and it’s what will take STORY to the next level”
Amanda is a proud advocate for the indie agency sector and the importance of growing the communication sector outside of London. She was recognised as PR Professional of the Year by the PRCA, the sector’s industry body last year for her contribution to the profession and her role in nurturing talent and contributing to the region’s creative sector.
The BusinessDesk West Midlands Leadership Awards celebrate individuals and organisations making significant contributions to business and economic growth across the region.
