Join us for Generator Conference, a one-day gathering of bold ideas
 big conversations, and powerful
connections. Set in Civic Centre,
this year’s event brings together
high-profile speakers and industry
leaders for a day of talks, panels,
and in-depth conversations.

What's On

Banqueting Suite

WELCOME KEY NOTE

Banqueting Suite
11:00 - 11:20

  • Mick Ross

    CEO, Generator

    Mick Ross is the CEO of Generator, the North’s leading agency for music, culture and creative development. A celebrated musician and producer turned pioneering leader, Mick brings over 25 years of experience shaping culture through music and leadership. Over the past decade, he’s transformed Generator into a bold, future focused platform - one that powers talent, connects industries, and puts the North at the forefront of the UK’s creative economy. Driven by purpose and rooted in the region, Mick is building a creative sector that’s ambitious, inclusive and built to last.

LOUD AND NORTHERN: CREATIVES REWRITING THE INDUSTRY RULES

Banqueting Suite
11:30 - 12:10
Meet the next generation of disruptors redefining what it means to lead in music. From grassroots movements to genre-blurring innovation, these young, loud and proudly northern creatives are breaking barriers and building the future their way. Expect real talk and a glimpse of where music culture is heading next.

  • Brooke Bentham

    Songwritwer, Artist

    Brooke originally from South Shields - was involved as a Backing Vocalist on friend, Sam Fender’s second album Seventeen Going Under. She supported him with her band on a number of dates during 2021/22. She contributed BV’s to recording sessions on Sam’s third album People Watching and then joined him and his band on stage to headline Boardmasters Festival on 10th August 2024. She was then invited to join as a permanent member – and now is an integral part of the group touring the world as an Instrumentalist and Vocalist. Alongside that project Brooke is writing, releasing and performing as a solo artist.

  • Maia Beth

    Radio 1 DJ

    Maia Beth is a presenter and DJ from Washington, Tyne and Wear. She hosts Best New Pop Extra on BBC Sounds, covers shows on Radio 1, and DJs everywhere from clubs to festival stages, championing new and diverse artists along the way.

  • Chiedu Oraka

    Artist

    Chiedu Oraka is a rapper from Hull whose music blends dance floor energy with raw social poetry, amplifying the Black, working-class experience in the North. Winner of Best Newcomer at the 2025 Northern Music Awards, he’s performed at Glastonbury, SXSW and on tour with Coldplay, with acclaimed releases supported by NME, BBC Radio 1, 6Music and 1Xtra.

  • Sami Omar

    Founder, Creative director at Up2stndrd

    Sami Omar is a creative working across music, publishing, and film, dedicated to building platforms that empower artists and amplify underrepresented voices. As founder of UP2STNDRD and Icon Publishing, they have worked to break down barriers in Scotland’s music scene, creating opportunities for emerging talent through development and mentorship. They currently manage Sam Barker (AXOR), a versatile producer whose work spans beat production, sound design, and engineering. Their recent project Scheme Politiks—a short film visual album—marked an expansion into filmmaking, exploring the intersection of music and film. This cross-disciplinary approach informs their ability to identify gaps and opportunities across the arts, shaping initiatives that are both relevant and impactful.

  • Jenna Cole

    Artist

    Jenna Cole is a freelance musician from North Tyneside, working across song writing, production and vocal performance in afrobeats, RnB and pop. Previously best known to be apart of the pop duo HUNNI, winners of The Voice UK 2023. She now focuses on solo projects and works with TICE to support young people in the creative industries.

BEYOND BOUNDARIES: FUELLING CROSS-MEDIA COLLABORATION

Banqueting Suite
12:40 - 13:20
The boundaries between music, film, TV, gaming, and other media are dissolving. opening fresh opportunities for collaboration like never before. This panel dives into how regional investment and devolution initiatives are powering these cross-sector partnerships, sparking innovation and boosting local economies. Industry insiders will share how targeted funding fuels groundbreaking projects, nurtures talent, and drives growth well beyond traditional creative hubs. Join us to discover how these collaborations across all media are reshaping the future of entertainment, and what it means for music creators everywhere.

  • Jake Hills

    BPI’s Head of Corporate Communications

    Jake plays a key role in developing and executing the BPI’s communications strategy, working with BPI colleagues and members to help promote and protect the UK’s recorded music industry. With a background in innovation and emerging technology, he has over a decade’s experience leading and executing ambitious communications programmes for high-growth tech companies and established industry leaders across gaming, entertainment (Roblox, Dream Games, MTG, Scriptic) and consumer brands (Deliveroo). Jake also volunteers as Head of PR for Pride in London, the not-for-profit organisation behind the UK's largest Pride event.

  • Phil Charnock

    Head of Partnerships, Draw & Code

    An ambassador and enthusiast of immersive tech, Phil Charnock is the Head of Relationships at Draw & Code. The Liverpool-based studio harnesses immersive technology and techniques for a broad range of clients including Google, Sony Music, Red Bull, Warner Bros and more. With over a decade in the game, Phil's work means communicating complex concepts and innovations to varied audiences and partners in the burgeoning XR sector. Prior to dabbling with technology, Phil could be found DJing at soulful and electronic venues in the UK and beyond.

  • Des Agyekumhene

    Certifi World - CEO/Founder:

    Des Agyekumhene is a PhD researcher at the University of Edinburgh School of Law, where his work explores the legal rights of musicians in the rapidly evolving digital music landscape. Alongside his academic research, he is the founder of Certi.fi World, a digital creative company that uses innovative technology to enhance fan engagement and empower creators in the music and entertainment industries. Recognised as one of Google’s Future Leaders, Des brings a unique blend of academic insight and entrepreneurial spirit to his work, with collaborations including Sleep Token, Ne-Yo, Aitch, and Floyd Mayweather.

  • Ruth Emery

    Founder, Yes Please

    Glasgow born and raised, Ruth Emery spent the first decade of her career working at both indie and major record labels including a 6 year stint at Polydor/Universal where she worked on artist campaigns for huge international artists such as Madonna, Gwen Stefani and Lady Gaga. In 2012 Ruth left her corporate career to set up her PR agency Yes Please which is now 13 years old. She has had the absolute pleasure of working with artists past and present including Prince, Run The Jewels, elbow, Primal Scream, Gorillaz, Pet Shop Boys and Arlo Parks. She loves working with passionate and inspirational individuals.

TAPPED IN: HOW BRANDS ARE MOVING THROUGH MUSIC CULTURE

Banqueting Suite
14:30 - 15:10
This panel explores how brands are tapping into music culture to build deeper connections with communities, drive relevance, and co-create cultural moments. From fashion collabs and festival activations to artist partnerships and viral campaigns.

  • Tom Dodd

    Brand and Marketing

    Tom brings 20 years of expertise across music, culture, fashion, and brand marketing. He is driven by ideas, strategy, and execution, with a track record of delivering critically acclaimed experiential and digital projects. His work is defined by a commitment to authentic cultural representation and uncovering the original stories that shape it. In addition, Tom specialises in brand partnerships and artist marketing, helping brands and talent connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

  • Nic Coaker

    Founder, Nrthrn Baby

    Nic’s music industry journey began in journalism, where she contributed to prominent platforms like GRM Daily and UK Grime. She later transitioned into PR, spearheading high-profile campaigns, including Russ and Tion Wayne’s chart-topping "Body"—the first drill track to reach number one. Her PR work also includes campaigns for major artists such as Dizzee Rascal, Hardy Caprio, Pip Millett, Blac Youngsta, and Erick The Architect. Expanding her expertise, Nic began leading cultural campaigns for global brands like The North Face, Timberland, and New Era. In parallel, she dedicated herself to developing North East talent, securing festival slots at Reading & Leeds, Kendal Calling, and more. Nic has also curated songwriting camps for major labels and collaborated with renowned brands like Sephora, Nando’s, Mallet London, and Kick Game.

HUMAN AFTER ALL : AI, CREATIVITY AND THE FIGHT TO PROTECT COPYRIGHT IN MUSIC

Banqueting Suite
15:40 - 16:20
AI is shaking up how music gets made, but it’s also sparking big questions around authorship, ownership, and ethics. This panel dives into the creative power of AI while tackling the thorny legal and moral issues it brings, from licensing and copyright to protecting human artistry. With new government rules on the horizon, and fears they might open the door to exploitation, now more than ever, informed advocacy and responsible use are crucial. Join artists, legal minds, and tech experts as they hash out how the music world can innovate without losing its soul or leaving creators behind.

  • Sophie Jones

    CSO, BPI

    Sophie leads the BPI’s strategic, policy and public affairs work and engagement. She has accumulated almost 25 years’ experience leading strategic communications, policy and public affairs for a range of high-profile organisations in media including Channel 4, ITV and ITN. Sophie is also the Chair of the Alliance for Intellectual Property and holds a number of non-executive posts at the likes of the Policy and Evidence Centre, the AHRC Creative Industries Advisory Group, the British Screen Forum Board and Creative Industries Federation Council.

  • Scott Ashby

    CMO & Co-Founder of Unchained Music

    Scott Ashby is the CMO & Co-Founder of Unchained Music, a Leicester-based company transforming how independent artists access distribution and financial services. Since its launch in 2021, the platform has secured $15.8m investment and now supports over 60,000 musicians and labels worldwide, with recent projects featuring Snoop Dogg, Tom Meighan, D12, and Punk Rock Factory. Scott began his career at Metropolis Studios, Warner Records, and Universal Music Germany before moving into artist management, where his roster achieved YouTube Creator Awards, Gold and Silver records, and toured internationally across the UK, Europe, the USA, Japan, and Australasia. In 2025, he was appointed Head of Operations at Sonic Wax, a leading vinyl pressing and distribution company working with artists including Raye, Chase & Status, Cam Cole, and Swedish House Mafia, and supplying retailers such as Rough Trade, HMV, and Tower Records. Through Sonic Wax’s partnership with Unchained Music, Scott is bridging physical and digital distribution to expand services for the independent sector. Passionate about artist sustainability and independence, Scott regularly speaks on how technology and finance can reshape opportunities for musicians. His work has been featured in Forbes, Rolling Stone, Entrepreneur Magazine, Yahoo Finance, and NASDAQ, and he lectures on music business at De Montfort University.

  • Ste Allen

    Artist

    With nearly 2 decades of experience as a songwriter and artist with Teesside band Be Quiet. Shout Loud!, Ste has taken his music from local stages to international audiences - scoring placements on BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 and touring across the UK and Europe. Off stage, he’s worn just about every hat the industry has to offer: from crewing live shows and promoting gigs and club nights, to holding down a decade-long DJ residency at The Middlesbrough Empire, shaping dancefloors week after week. Today, Ste is the Project Manager for Generator’s Sonic Futures programme, leading on artist and industry development in the Tees Valley. Still active as a musician, he brings the invaluable perspective of seeing how the industry is evolving in real time from the artist’s side. He also works with KU Stockton, a cornerstone of Teesside’s live music scene, keeping him closely connected to grassroots music and live events.

IN CONVERSATION WITH NADINE SHAH

Banqueting Suite
17:00 - 17:45
Mercury Prize shortlisted for Holiday Destination and praised as “one of the most extraordinary voices in British indie” (The Guardian), Nadine Shah has built a reputation for fearless songwriting and fierce honesty. Her latest release, Filthy Underneath, cements her as one of the North’s most compelling storytellers, raw, political and deeply human. Joining her in conversation is Steven Braines, Co-Founder of HE.SHE.THEY., Global Head of Events at Defected and Glitterbox, and an award-winning advocate for diversity and mental health in music. Together they explore the art of staying authentic, the weight of a Mercury nod, and how identity, place and politics continue to shape British music. Expect real talk, Northern grit and insight from two of the most dynamic voices shaping the culture today.

  • Nadine Shah

    Artist

    Alongside unilateral A-list support at BBC 6 music, this recent album campaign also provided for Nadine’s first tv show appearances with full band - with Jools Holland - and on RTE’S Other Voices - along with live performances on 6 Music’s Steve Lamacq’s show and BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends show with Clive Anderson. Much loved and respected by other artists for the intensity of her performance and soaring vocal skills, she has collaborated and shared a bill with Young Fathers, Massive Attack, Depeche Mode, Patti Smith, Annie Lennox, New Order and Elbow and recently appeared as a guest vocalist on Pogues 40th Anniversary iteration of their ‘Red Roses for Me ‘ album tour alongside their 'Sodomy & The Lash’ tour across the UK and Europe.

  • Steven Braines

    Co Founder HE.SHE.THEY

    Sunderland born Steven Braines is the co-founder of the award winning HE.SHE.THEY. & global head of events for Defected & Glitterbox. He is also board member of the NTIA, formerly MMF & AFEM. Alongside managing a host of artists from Nadine shah, Maya Jane Coles, Tricky, SYREETA, Catz n Dogz, Tale of Us, Magda, Emily Nash, Little Comets and KDA to name a few from touring the world to collecting awards and even topping the charts along the way. Trained in psychology his big passion is for advocating diversity & mental health in the music industry and beyond. Recognised on power lists from Billboard to IQ, Steven is no stranger to awards having recently been nominated for LGBTQIA+ leader of year in the National Diversity Awards and the winner of a Night Time Ambassador Award. Braines has previously worked for brands such as Kiss, Ministry as well as the regions Generator x

Council Chambers

THE LIVE SQUEEZE: TOURING IN THE AGE OF COSTS, CUTS & CLICKS

Council Chambers
12:15 - 12:35
The live music world is feeling the squeeze. Skyrocketing costs, shrinking mid-tier gigs, and TikTok’s growing clout are reshaping how artists map out their tours and their budgets. This presentation will dive deep into the financial and structural pressures squeezing the live circuit, especially hitting emerging and mid-level acts hard.

  • Nathan Clark

    Owner and Director, The Brudenell

    Nathan is the owner / director of the Brudenell Social Club, a venue in Leeds, and also Brudenell Presents the live music promoter organisation, and has worked in music for over two decades. He is a founding board member of LIVE, a director of Come Play With Me (a non-profit music development org with a mission to create an equitable, inclusive and diverse music industry.) and also sits on the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Culture Committee.

THE INVISIBLE INFASTRUCTURE: BUILDING SUSTAINABLE MUSIC CAREERS THROUGH COACHING

Council Chambers
13:25 - 13:45
The UK music industry is thriving economically but many artists struggle behind the scenes with anxiety, burnout, and overwhelm. In this talk, we’ll explore why coaching proactive, professional support should be as essential as studio time or marketing spend. Attendees will discover how building an “invisible infrastructure” of wellbeing, mindset and resilience not only prevents crises but strengthens careers and the industry as a whole.

  • Basil Reynolds

    Music Industry Professional Development Consultant and Coach

    Basil Reynolds is a Music Industry Professional Development Consultant and Coach, the founder of the Finding the Music Inside Framework™—a diagnostic-led approach that blends consultancy, coaching, mentoring, and emotional wellness to help music creatives overcome internal blocks, build lasting confidence, and create with purpose. A UK Hip Hop pioneer, master coach, and published author with over 30 years of experience in the music industry. My work bridges creativity, emotional resilience, and performance—supporting artists and music professionals as they navigate the mental and emotional demands of the industry. With a proven track record that includes collaborations with industry leaders and involvement in initiatives like the LIMF Academy and PRS Power Up, my coaching empowers artists to overcome both creative and professional challenges. For me, it’s not just about what you achieve—it’s about who you become in the process.

Amnesty International UK: The power of music to ‘Change the Record’ on human rights

Council Chambers
15:15 - 15:35
We are witnessing a dramatic assault on human rights: governments undermining international law, violent crackdowns, and a growing backlash against the rights of migrants, refugees, women, girls, and LGBTI+ people. Yet at the same time, a powerful movement is rising – artists are feeling more compelled than ever to speak out. In this talk, we will explore how music can spark meaningful conversations and ‘Change the Record’ on human rights.

  • Bea Bennister

    Artist and Ambassadors Producer, Amnesty UK

    Holly forms 2/4 of Amnesty International UK’s dynamic artist team. We work to engage and collaborate with high-profile artists and creative partners to support long-term positive changes in attitudes to global human rights issues, and help win human rights victories.

  • Holly Parker-Monks

    Artist and Ambassadors Manager, Amnesty UK

    Holly is 2 out of 4 of the Amnesty International UK’s dynamic artist team. We work to engage and collaborate with high-profile artists and creative partners to support long-term positive changes in attitudes to global human rights issues, and help win human rights victories.

BEYOND THE SPOTLIGHT: PARENTS AND CARERS IN MUSIC

Council Chambers
16:25 - 16:45
This session shines a light on the often-invisible experiences of parents and carers working in music. We’ll explore the challenges of balancing creativity and caregiving, highlight the impact on careers and wellbeing, and discuss practical strategies for building a more inclusive, sustainable industry.

  • Cassie Raine

    Co-Founder and Co-CEO Parents and Carers in Performing Arts

    Cassie Raine is a leading advocate for equity in the performing arts and co-founder and co-CEO of Parents and Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA). With a background as an actor, she has become a driving force for change across the creative industries, spearheading PiPA’s groundbreaking work in music. Cassie co-authored Bittersweet Symphony, the first major research study into the experiences of parents and carers in the UK music sector, shining a spotlight on the systemic barriers that force talented people, particularly women, out of the industry. Under her leadership, PiPA has built partnerships with leading music organisations including UK Music, Help Musicians, Musicians’ Union and MMF, influencing policy and delivering practical frameworks that are helping to reshape how the music sector supports its workforce.

Pandon

ADVANCING ACCESSIBILITY INCLUSION IN MUSIC

Pandon
11:20 - 12:10
Industry leaders and disabled voices discuss the barriers that persist in the music industry and outline the strategies to embed accessibility as a core standard rather than an afterthought.

  • Ruth Lyon

    Artist

    Ruth Lyon is a songwriter from Newcastle-upon-Tyne whose music balances delicacy with strength. Drawing on her experiences as a disabled woman and a life-long sense of otherness, she writes vivid, poetic songs that explore the messy beauty of human existence. Her sound blends analogue textures with angular anti-folk, giving space to silence as much as groove, shimmering between abstraction, archetype, and raw truth. She has performed worldwide, including Glastonbury, SXSW Texas, The Great Escape, and New York City Hall—where she received the Danny Award recognising disabled creatives—and recently toured Europe with Zaho De Sagazan. In 2024, she was named on the Disability Power 100 list. Her debut album Poems & Non-Fiction (June 2025), produced by John Parish (PJ Harvey, Aldous Harding), reached the UK Top 20 Album Breakers Chart and Top 50 in the Official Record Store Chart, cementing her reputation as a singular voice in contemporary music. Ruth Lyon headlines The Glasshouse (Sage 2) on 11 December 2025.

  • Ben Price

    Artist Manager, Producer

    Ben Price is an Artist Manager, Producer, Disability advocate, and Grants & Programmes Manager at PRS Foundation. He manages the Early Years Promoter Fund and works across the music industry to improve representation and policies for disabled creatives. In 2020, he founded Harbourside Artist Management after moving away from tour management due to a degenerative eye condition. The company bridges disability arts and pop culture, representing Viktoria Modesta, Elle Chante, and Musa Motha, while also curating international events to integrate disabled artists across the sector. Ben sits on the BPI’s EJAG committee and is a Trustee of Attitude is Everything. Based in Bristol, he previously toured internationally with clients including Donny Osmond, Bananarama, Rebecca Ferguson, and Sir Bradley Wiggins.

  • Damian Weatherald

    Accessibility and Inclusivity Consultant

    Damian is an inclusivity and accessibility consultant with a passion for wanting to make the live events and leisure industry more accessible for disabled people. He has worked with a number of venues to assist them in becoming more accessible and also reviews and blogs about his experiences attending events as a wheelchair user, around the UK and internationally.

TWO MUSIC CITIES ONE REGION: BUILDING A MUSIC POWERHOUSE IN THE NORTH EAST

Pandon
12:40 - 13:20
What makes a Music City, and why does it matter? From Sunderland’s European Music City designation to Liverpool’s UNESCO recognition, different approaches are reshaping how music supports culture, identity, and growth. This panel brings together regional and national leaders to explore the opportunities Music Cities create – from boosting tourism and inward investment to nurturing talent and strengthening communities. With NewcastleGateshead now developing its own Music City strategy, we’ll ask what impact two neighbouring Music Cities could have for the North East, and how collaboration can position the region as a national and international music powerhouse.

  • Alice Fuller

    Deputy CEO, Generaor

    Alice Fuller is Deputy CEO at Generator, the UK’s leading music talent and business development agency, powering the North to lead in Music, Culture and Creativity. A dynamic leader with a drive for creative business strategy and a deep commitment to inclusion, Alice oversees national and international programmes, builds cross-sector partnerships, and steers the organisation through growth and transformation. With roots in live events and a career spanning business development, funding, operations, and creative workforce leadership, she’s passionate about building the conditions for talent to thrive. Alice brings energy and care to everything from HR and operations to export strategy and industry change-making. Her work champions new voices, backs bold ideas, and helps shape a more sustainable future for the music and creative industries.

  • Michelle Escoffery

    Ivor Novello and Brit Award-winning Singer-Songwriter

    Michelle Escoffery is an Ivor Novello and Brit Award-winning Singer-Songwriter with an unrivalled expertise gained over three decades in the music industry.  Her journey weaves together the roles of a recording artist, vocal producer, acclaimed songwriter, Lecturer in Commercial music, and an unwavering advocate for the rights of music creators, whilst remaining focussed on propelling artistic evolution, nurturing industry insights, and cultivating talent and transferable skillsets. Michelle is the current President at the PRS for Music Members Council. She also finds immense pride in her role as a Trustee for PRS Foundation board and Chair of the Ivors Academy Trust. Roles exemplifying her steadfast commitment to fostering positive transformations within the creative industries.

  • Kevin McManus

    Head of UNESCO City of Music for Liverpool City Council.

    Prior to this he was the Curator at the British Music Experience in Liverpool, the UK’s only national museum of rock and pop music. Kevin has been involved in music since he began writing for influential music paper New Musical Express (NME) when he was 18. As well as writing for NME his music journalism career also included writing for The Face, ID, and Mixmag. He went on to work for the University of Liverpool where he wrote a number of books about Liverpool music history and the social and economic context in which it was made. In his subsequent public sector career Kevin developed the pioneering creative industries sector development agency for Liverpool, Merseyside ACME, which he led for almost 20 years. Kevin’s achievements during this period included setting up the Baltic Creative CIC and establishing the music festival and industry conference Liverpool Sound City.

  • Michelle Daurat

    Chief Executive of The Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture

    With over 20 years of experience, Michelle Daurat has led cultural projects and organisations throughout the North East. In 2010, she served as Project Director for The Tall Ships Races in Hartlepool and reprised this role in Sunderland in 2018. Previously, she held the positions of Head of Business and Operations at the National Glass Centre and Executive Director at The Fire Station in Sunderland. She is currently the Chief Executive of the Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture Trust and led the team that achieved Music City-status for the City of Sunderland in January 2025.

WHO GETS IN? CLASS, ACSESS AND EQUITY IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

Pandon
14:30 - 15:10
This panel will explore how class, economic background, and systemic inequities shape access to education, networks, and career opportunities in the music industry. Speakers will also share pathways and strategies for breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive, equitable future for artists and professionals alike.

  • Sophie Pender

    CEO, The 93% Club

    Sophie Pender grew up in a single parent household on a council estate in North London after losing her father to his battle with alcoholism and drug addiction. In 2014, she became the first student ever in her school's history to achieve straight A*s at A level in a school year where the GCSE pass rate was just 32%. Sophie attended the University of Bristol to study English Literature before being recruited by one of the world’s most prestigious law firms, where she qualified as a corporate lawyer specialising in high value mergers and acquisitions. At 19 years old, during her third year at university, Sophie discovered the existence of private school alumni networks that supported their members throughout their careers. Realising those same support networks were lacking for state schoolers, Sophie founded The 93% Club – a national members' club for state educated people – to do the same. Since then, The 93% Club has become the largest network of state educated people in the UK – with a huge university presence and a thriving professionals network that supports thousands of state educated students into and through the UK’s most elitist professions. The mission? To transform what it means to be state educated in the UK, one connection at a time. Featured in The Times, The Guardian, The Financial Times, and The Telegraph, Sophie has used her platform to highlight the inequities within the UK’s education system. She regularly writes about these issues, with notable op-eds in The Times tackling the state-private education divide and in The Financial Times on the working class experience in the UK. A recipient of Forbes 30 Under 30 and The Diana Legacy Award, Sophie’s work has been showcased across various media outlets, including documentaries for BBC Radio 4, where she was a presenter for the documentary The 93% Club, as well appearances on The Economist, Sky News, and ITV News. Her story, from being the first in her family to attend university to founding The 93% Club, was the focus of her TEDx talk, where she discussed the challenges faced by working-class students. Her story has also been featured in podcasts such as The Rest is Politics and Financial Times’ How to Smash the Class Ceilin

  • Yaw Owusu

    Creative consultant

    Yaw Owusu is a Liverpool-based creative consultant who specialises in the strategic design, development and delivery of music and music culture projects, programmes and initiatives that deliver long-term impact for creatives, brands, organisations and communities. He believes that the empowerment and platforming of under-represented voices, cultures and stories strengthens and bolsters the art. Yaw is a trailblazer, connector and thought leader.

  • Ruth Kilpatrick

    Artist Development and Freelance Creative Producer.

    Ruth has held various roles in the industry for over 15 years, from booking and shooting shows to radio and content creation, as Artist Liaison at the UK’s leading funder of new music, artist and producer management, and writer of Compass: the weekly new music column at Record of the Day, for almost a decade. Most recently, Ruth was tasked with redesigning and running ReBalance 2024 for Festival Republic - a development programme creating opportunities for women and gender-expansive artists, producers and engineers, in studios across the UK. Finding unsigned (and under-represented) artists across all genres and providing a platform for growth has always been at the core of each project. In every workplace, Ruth has highlighted and encouraged consideration of class barriers to growth, hidden or otherwise. Passionate about transparency, accountability, and fair access for all.

  • Hailey Willington

    Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager at the BPI, the UK record labels association

    Hailey Willington is the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager at the BPI, the UK record labels association. Hailey is the author of the BPI's current Five-Year Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Strategy which covers the BPI's external, internal and membership DEI work, and for which the BPI won the Diversity & Inclusion Award at the 2025 Trade Association Awards. Hailey represents the BPI on the UK Music Diversity Taskforce, Creative UK Diversity Leaders’ Forum, and Creative Industries Independent Standards (CIISA) Council. In addition to her work at the BPI, Hailey is elected to the Musicians’ Union Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, the TUC Women's Committee and is a Trustee of the Association for Improvements in the Maternity Services (AIMS). 

THE FUTURE OF INDEPENDENT VENUES

Pandon
15:40 - 16:20
Independent venues are the lifeblood of local music ecosystems, but rising costs, shifting audience habit and competition from large-scale entertainment threaten their survival. This roundtable brings together venue owners, promoters, and industry leaders to explore innovative models, community partnerships, and policy solutions that can sustain these cultural hubs.

  • Sybil Bell

    Founder and CEO of Independent Venue Week

    Sybil Bell is the Founder and CEO of Independent Venue Week (IVW) and Independent Venue Community (IVC). IVW is a week-long celebration of independent music venues across the UK and US, while IVC is its charitable arm, delivering year-round programmes in education, development, and community activity through music venues nationwide. She is also the founder of boutique agency I Like The Sound Of That, working across marketing strategy, brand partnerships, creative content, and event management, and the creator of Independents Day, an industry event for the independent venue and community sector. Sybil’s career spans roles as an artist manager, label manager, tour manager, promoter, and venue and studio owner. She has consulted for UK Music, the MMF, and the FAC, and coordinated international networking events at SXSW for the Department of International Trade. A regular media commentator, she has appeared on BBC 6 Music, Radio 1, Radio 4, BBC World Service, Sky News, ITV News, and BBC2’s Politics Show and Victoria Derbyshire Live, among many others. Sybil has spoken and curated panels worldwide, including SXSW, Bigsound (Australia), Pop Montreal, Mondo NYC, and BBC Introducing, and delivered keynotes at Output Belfast and other major conferences.

  • Ross Lewis

    Production Manager, The Cluny

    Ross Lewis has played in, toured in and worked in music venues since he was teenager. He passionately believes in the power of live music and grass roots venues to inspire and change lives, particularly for people who don’t feel like they fit in anywhere else. He is currently production manager and part of the booking team at The Cluny and Cluny 2 in Newcastle.

  • Charlie Dancer

    Owner, The Grove

    Charlie Dancer is the owner of The Grove, an independent multi-use venue in Newcastle that’s quickly become a hub for live music and culture in the North East. A fixture of the local music community for over a decade, Charlie has worked across artist management, development, and events. Since opening its doors just two and a half years ago, The Grove has hosted the likes of AJ Tracey, Wheatus, English Teacher, Antony Szmierek and Berghaus, cementing its reputation as one of the region’s most exciting new stages.

Collingwood

THE POWER OF BBC INTRODUCING

Collingwood
11:30 - 12:20
This workshop explores how BBC Introducing can open doors for emerging artists. Discover how to submit your music, what producers look for and how to make the most of opportunities to grow your audience.

  • Fuzz Chaudhrey

    BBC Introducing Producer

    Fuzz has a wealth of experience having spent 15 years working in both the radio and the music industries and is a respected expert in breaking new artists. As Network Producer of BBC Introducing, they work closely with local and national Introducing radio shows to help champion and platform the best emerging British talent. In 2018, they launched Radio 1’s Indie Show with Jack Saunders and spearheaded the rebrand to Radio 1’s Future Artists. Before becoming a radio producer, Fuzz worked as plugger at Caroline International with artists such as Glass Animals, Kae Tempest and St Vincent helping to build their profile from grassroots radio right up to daytime playlist support.

  • Shakk Hashemi

    Presenter, BBC Introducing in the North East

    Shakk is the presenter of BBC Introducing in the North East, where he showcases emerging artists and new sounds from the region every week. A passionate advocate for grassroots talent, he’s built a reputation on love for the music scene and on bringing local voices to a national stage

LAND THE JOB: CV & INTERVIEW SUCCESS WORKSHOP WITH UMG TALENT DEVELOPMENT

Collingwood
12:40 - 13:30
Your CV and interview skills are key to unlocking new career opportunities. This interactive workshop will help you create a polished, professional CV that highlights your strengths and prepares you to confidently tackle interviews. You’ll learn how to answer common and challenging questions, present your experience with impact, and leave a lasting impression on employers. Whether you’re entering the job market for the first time or looking to take the next step in your career, this session will give you the tools to stand out and succeed.

  • Jesse Adu

    Talent Acquisition Sourcing Partner

    As the Talent Acquisition Sourcing Partner at Universal Music, we sit at the heart of our business, attracting and nurturing our candidates, collaborating and partnering with our labels & departments to add true value through every interaction we make. I support our Talent Acquisition Partners to build talent pipelines that facilitate & ensure the success of our future hiring needs across UMG's UK business.

  • Adam Cutting

    Label A&R Operations

    Adam Cutting works in A&R and Label Operations at Interval Records. He is the creator of RAW CUTS, an underground event series and label dedicated to supporting emerging talent. With a background in music promotion and social media management, Adam has helped amplify artists’ voices and connect with global audiences—amassing over 400,000 followers and 100 million views. As an independent artist, he has achieved over 15 million streams across his tracks, with a growing catalogue of remixes for Warner, Sony, and Universal.

GETTING YOUR MUSIC SEEN: APPROACHING THE MEDIA IN THE RIGHT WAY

Collingwood
14:30 - 15:20
This workshop will guide independent artists through the essentials of approaching media outlets with confidence. Learn how to craft effective pitches, build professional relationshops, and present your music in a way captures attention and maximises visibility.

  • Matty Aston

    Marketing and Stratergy Super Cat PR

    Matty has worked at music marketing and strategy company Super Cat PR for over nine years now, splitting his time between their Newcastle and London offices whilst building the company in the north. Promoted to Head of Operations at the company in late 2023, Super Cat’s roster includes several emerging and established acts including 2024 Mercury Prize winners English Teacher, Kavinsky, Anna Prior (Metronomy), Hippo Campus, Du Blonde and Prima Queen.

  • Sarah Jamieson

    Managing Editor, DIY Magazine

    Having established her own music website back in 2006, Sarah Jamieson studied Journalism and English BA (Hons) at Northumbria University in Newcastle, before relocating to London in November 2011 to take up the position of DIY’s News Editor. After spending three years in the role, she was promoted to Deputy Editor in 2014, before stepping up to her current position of Managing Editor in May 2015, which she has been dedicated to ever since. Throughout her time as Managing Editor, she’s welcomed cover stars such as Paramore, Gorillaz, Jack White, Rico Nasty and Queens of the Stone Age, worked with brands such as Spotify, Jack Daniel’s, Hyundai and more, and played an integral part in the inaugural edition of DIY’s first ever festival, DIY Alive, which launched in 2022.

THE PEOPLE YOU NEED ON YOUR TEAM: THE BUSINESS AFFAIR AVENGERS

Collingwood
15:40 - 16:30
This session will break down why business affairs are a crucial part of any artist’s journey, how lawyers, managers and accountants work in sync, the advice they would give to emerging artists and the paths that led them into their roles. Whether you are building your first team or levelling up, this session will give you a clear view of why these professionals are the unsung heroes of an artist’s career.

  • Paul Lennon

    Senior Consultant Moore SGD Law

    Up until the beginning of 2025 Paul was a senior partner at Statham Gill Davies (SGD) entertainment lawyers and Head of the Music Department. At the beginning of 2025 SGD merged with Moore Kingston Smith to form Moore SGD Law (MSGD) and Paul is now a Senior Consultant in the new firm. He uses his experience in the industry to advise new artist and corporate clients on the early mistakes to avoid, as well as sharing practical and strategic tips for their continued success. Clients are attracted to his straightforward and pragmatic approach to finding solutions and working out the best way forward. Paul was listed in the Music Business UK’s Legal and Accountancy 50 for 2018 – a recognition of his status as one of the premier music lawyers in the UK. Paul first started his entertainment law career in 1989 working at a record label. Like others in the firm, music has always been a passion. It is a passion that is obvious to each and every client that he represents. The MSGD music law department’s client base includes some of the music industry’s most successful artists and most dynamic entertainment businesses with Paul representing some of the most successful and established musical artists, songwriters and producers in the United Kingdom and Europe as well as some of the most exciting emerging new talent. Paul’s clients over the years have included several household names including Sam Smith, Dizzee Rascal, Kasabian, Steps, Shed 7, Atomic Kitten, Tom Misch, Years & Years and many others.

  • Lou Paley

    Co-founder and director of Women In Jazz

    Lou Paley is the co-founder and director of Women In Jazz, a UK organisation dedicated to advancing gender equity in jazz. Since 2019, she has cultivated a vibrant community of over 10,000 people, delivering mentoring programmes, live events, workshops, and a radio show that amplifies female talent. In 2024, Lou launched Women In Jazz Records in partnership with New Soil. Lou has forged partnerships with top venues and festivals, including Royal Albert Hall, Ellen’s Jazz Club, Abbey Road Studios, B:Music, and Love Supreme Festival, driving visibility and opportunities for women in jazz across the UK and Europe. In 2025, Women In Jazz was honoured with the Collaboration Award at the Jazz FM Awards, recognising its significant impact within the jazz community.