Get to Know: Annaleigh Marshall, Property Manager
From overseeing major site developments to orchestrating standout conferences, Annaleigh Marshall is one of the driving forces behind the smooth and ever-evolving operations at York Biotech Campus (YBC).
With a background in commercial operations and a passion for connecting people, ideas, and opportunities, Annaleigh brings a unique energy and perspective to her role as Property Manager.
We caught up with Annaleigh to talk about her journey to YBC, the diversity of her role, her passion for community-building on campus, and the personal goal that’s taking her to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro later this year.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m a mum to Isabelle (14) and Edward (12), and we live in York, where I’ve been based for the past 20 years. I originally come from Grimsby, studied at Sheffield Hallam University, and started my career in London in marketing and business development. Since moving north, I’ve worked across a range of operational roles including finance, HR, marketing and communications, and product development.
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me ferrying my children between various sports clubs, walking my dog Jack, or on the tennis court – I play for a local mixed doubles team. I also love a good challenge and try to set myself new ones regularly!
Tell us about your role?
I originally joined to support the estates team, but over the past eight years, the role has evolved significantly. I’ve managed the Lakeside Conference Centre (LCC), supported the rebrand from NAFIC to YBC, developed our intranet, and worked to attract new occupiers while raising the campus’s profile regionally and beyond.
I’ve always enjoyed supporting growth and working with entrepreneurs. My previous experience has translated well into enhancing site operations, building strong relationships, and supporting our occupiers, balancing both strategic initiatives and day-to-day projects.
Have there been any recent projects you’ve particularly enjoyed working on?
Yes! We’ve recently redeveloped our staff intranet to better support the 1,000+ people working across our 80-acre site. It’s all about making day-to-day operations smoother and more efficient for our occupiers.
I’m also currently involved in upgrades to several of our on-site facilities, including the restaurant, gym, and meeting rooms. It’s incredibly satisfying to enhance the environment for everyone here.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
It’s the constant innovation and variety. One day I’m learning about humidity requirements for mosquito rearing; the next, I’m creating temporary lab space for science education. The diversity of work and the science behind it is what keeps it fresh and rewarding.
What are your main priorities or goals for the year ahead?
Professionally, I’m focused on continuing to raise awareness of YBC and the exciting opportunities available here, whether that’s supporting regional start-ups with flexible lab space and business support or promoting the LCC. I also want to make sure that everyone working on campus has a great experience, with high-quality facilities and services that meet their needs.
On a personal level, I’ve set myself a huge challenge: climbing Mount Kilimanjaro! After being diagnosed with cancer at the end of 2023, I decided to pursue a lifelong goal and raise money for Breast Cancer Now, a charity that’s provided incredible support throughout my journey. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for years and now feels like exactly the right time.
How’s training going for Kilimanjaro?
I’ve done several training walks including the Yorkshire 3 Peaks. My walking boots have been well worn in! It’s the altitude that will be the real test, and there is little I can do to prepare for that, apart from walk slowly and try to acclimatize. We go up to 5,895m and I just hope I manage to get to the summit!
What do you think makes YBC a unique place to work?
It’s a combination of the place, the people, and the science. The site is home to some truly world-class research and facilities. From growing artificial skin to developing insect protein and the latest lateral flow tests, the innovation happening here is nothing short of inspiring. It’s amazing to be part of an ecosystem driving scientific progress every day.
And finally, what do you enjoy doing when you’re off the clock?
I’m always up for a challenge. In the past, I’ve completed the Inca Trail, cycled from London to Paris, run the London Landmarks Half Marathon, and taken on the Macmillan Mighty Hike. My most recent adventure was the Yorkshire 3 Peaks, and next up is Kilimanjaro – a fitting goal as I approach a milestone birthday!
To support Annaleigh on her Kilimanjaro challenge and help her raise vital funds for Breast Cancer Now, click here.
Want to Get to Know more of our team? Meet Sandra Thomas from the security team, and Andrea Atack, our Restaurant Manager.