Emm Whittaker | Social Media Manager
I spent a few years racing in national and regional circuits, fully absorbed in the sport until too many injuries forced me to step back. Despite having to slow down, my passion for cycling and the outdoors didn’t fade. I explored different roles in the outdoor industry, working as a ski service technician, bike mechanic, and as a technical trainer for Rab and Lowe Alpine.
Before COVID brought everything to a halt, I had converted a van and spent two years traveling and riding across Europe. Most of my time was spent in the Alps, with a bit of Scandinavia. I juggled this lifestyle with freelance social media work for a while, but my travels were cut short halfway through a ski season when the pandemic hit.
Back in the UK, I took on the role of Retail Marketing Manager for PBP-UK (Stif Mountain Bikes). This job gave me the chance to sharpen my skills in social media, strategy, event planning, and content creation. Around the same time, I started Reyt Good in Yorkshire, a cycling community focused on having a good time without worrying too much about speed or stats. Every ride included a stop at a café or pub (sometimes two). Even now, the community is still thriving in North and West Yorkshire.
Reyt Good has always been about sharing experiences and making cycling accessible and fun. It has evolved into a collective where I run projects under the brand that reflect my values and beliefs. I am genuinely proud of what it has become, a space where people can ride, connect, and make a positive impact in the cycling world.
Running Reyt Good led me to qualify as a British Cycling Level 3 MTB guide. I also started running mechanic workshops, guiding bikepacking weekends, and giving talks to the local community. The goal was to help more people build confidence in off-road riding and bikepacking. This was my main focus until I came across an opportunity at SHIFT that I couldn’t pass up.
Moving to Bristol to join SHIFT as Social Media Manager has been a change, but very much worth it. The role has given me a chance to put my skills to use, building engaging social content and campaigns for clients that I am passionate about. I am excited for this opportunity, and to see what comes next.