Dr Jenny Kanellopoulou strengthens international connections with visit to Chicago Loop Alliance
Earlier this month, Dr Jenny Kanellopoulou, Senior Lecturer in Law at Manchester Metropolitan University and the Institute of Place Management, visited Chicago as part of IPM’s ongoing internationalisation work to build a global community of place managers and leaders.
The primary purpose of her visit was to present her latest research at the Law and Society Association 2025 conference, where she co-chaired sessions and shared insights from the forthcoming edited collection Legal Geographies of Intellectual Property. The project brings together contributors from around the world to explore how law and space intersect in shaping creativity, ownership, and innovation - themes that are increasingly relevant across disciplines and sectors.
While in Chicago, Jenny also took the opportunity to meet with representatives from the Chicago Loop Alliance - the business improvement district organisation responsible for promoting and managing Chicago’s central business district through placemaking, events, and economic development. She was welcomed by Christian Boyer, Ariella Gibson, and Daisy Ruiz for an engaging discussion centred on shared urban challenges.
Their discussions focused on shared urban challenges such as post-pandemic recovery, equitable placemaking, activating public space, and the role of place leadership in regeneration. The visit offered valuable insights into how cities across the world are working to reimagine their centres as thriving, inclusive, people-focused places.
Although she didn’t meet Michael Edwards, President and CEO of the Chicago Loop Alliance, IPM is proud to count him as a Senior Fellow. Michael has been a long-standing advocate for place-based strategies and international collaboration.
“I was sorry not to meet up with IPM colleagues on this occasion, but I know our team were pleased to host Jenny at the offices,” said Michael Edwards. “There were so many synergies and ideas to take forward as we continue working to make our places better. We’re proud to be part of a global network of people committed to place improvement, and we look forward to connecting again soon.
Jenny added:
“It was a pleasure to meet the team, and I’m grateful for their warm welcome. Whenever I travel and connect with other place leaders and managers, I’m struck by how similar the challenges are - no matter where we are in the world. These global dialogues are essential. They help us understand what makes places truly vibrant, and allow us to share practical tools and insights that can make a real difference.”
This visit highlights IPM’s and Manchester Metropolitan University's commitment to expanding our international partnerships, supporting professional learning, and contributing to a shared global vision for more resilient, liveable cities.
About the author
Formed in 2006, the Institute of Place Management is the international professional body that supports people committed to developing, managing and making places better.