Asterisk Asterisk

our people

Two men in an outdoor space, surrounded by converted shipping containers

Spark York C.I.C was founded by Tom McKenzie and Sam Leach in 2016, then, two local 23 year olds. Both founders remain heavily involved in the project today, alongside a brilliant team. Tom and Sam were awarded Young
Entrepreneurs of the Year in the CITI Microfinance 2019 awards.

Sam Leach

Co-Founder & Finance and Development Director

"Spark is a project that cares deeply about society and in making it better. For me, what makes Spark much more interesting than competitors is in its development of a new financial model that all stakeholders benefit from, most notably our start-up businesses.”

Tom McKenzie

Co-Founder & Managing Director

"We want to support individuals bring their ideas to life by showing the path and equipping them with the necessary skills. We believe creating a buzzing and provocative destination helps create that success."

Matthew Kirk

General Manager

"It’s important to me to be a part of a community driven space, with focus on local, independent business. Accessible to all, Spark is a great place to meet for a diverse range of food, host an event, or even benefit from the opportunity to run your own business from art spaces to retail and food units."

Gemma Spivey

Assistant General Manager & Compliance Lead

“Spark is independent, accessible for all ages and walks of life, exists for local people and local produce and is charitable and for the community. Ultimately, it is unique and one of a kind."

Daniel Stringer

Assistant General Manager

"What Spark means to me is community. Sharing and having the same attitudes and interests in Spark is what we all have in common and I really love that we all have a common goal, helping out our community."

Jack Barton

Marketing Coordinator

"Spark is a hub in York's creative and independent community, where new ideas and businesses have the freedom to flourish in an open and accessible environment. A place of happening."

Paulina Lewicka

Marketing Coordinator

"I see Spark as a unique place where the boldest of your ideas can come to life, where you can follow your passion, explore your strengths, connect with like-minded people and celebrate your true self."