De Montfort University (DMU) is collaborating with Phoenix Square, Leicester's hub for the latest technologies in film, digital arts and media in the city's Cultural Quarter, through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).

Opened in November 2009, Phoenix Square was created in collaboration with DMU, and has developed a unique partnership with the University. The DMU Cube, based at the venue, provides exhibition space to showcase the work of students and staff, alongside leading international creative practitioners, as part of a ground-breaking programme of digital exhibitions and installations.

The KTP, which will be led by the Institute of Creative Technologies (IOCT) at DMU, is a two year project funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, Technology Strategy Board and Economic and Social Research Council.

It aims to investigate, design and implement an audience development strategy to support the national and international positioning of Phoenix Square and enhance its reputation.

Fine Art graduate, Katie Flaherty, has been appointed as Digital Arts Development Officer and will be working closely with Creative Director, Tom Holley, to identify and target networks of artists and organisations and develop strategic partnerships.

Katie graduated in 2008 from Loughborough University and joins Phoenix Square from design studio, John Jones, in London, where she was a Marketing and Sales Coordinator and worked on a contemporary art project to support emerging artists.

Commenting on her new role, Katie said: "I am extremely excited about my KTP appointment at Phoenix Square and the unique opportunity to manage and deliver an audience development strategy that helps to shape the international positioning of the organisation. I am looking forward to drawing from the invaluable experiences and knowledge of partnership members and I am confident I can extend Phoenix Square's offer of digital arts and new media to a national and international market."

Ted Cassidy, MBE, is Chair of Phoenix Square and Head of Regional Partnerships at De Montfort University. He added: "Katie will be a real asset to the team at Phoenix Square. She brings with her a wealth of experience in events and marketing activities which, in conjunction with the University's expertise, will enable us to develop our offer and market position."

As well as being home to the DMU Cube, Phoenix Square has three cinema screens, digital production facilities, office space for creative businesses and state-of-the-art apartments.