This initiative is designed to strengthen Kick Arts and create a solid base for growth - both for Kick Arts and for the artists we work with. Well respected in our corner of the industry and members of the MMF, I've learned a lot since I started managing Reuben in 2000, but development is never ending and this is the time to dive deeper and deliver more effectively going forwards. Working with experts like Julia Payne from The Hub and manager Gary McClarnan to develop the business and build capacity, with additional support from organisations like Sound Roots, SoCo Music Project and Southern Creative Catalyst will transform the business. Alongside this, Kick Arts UK will deliver an artist development programme to help a group of 6 artists become industry ready. All too often talented people from challenging circumstances are deterred from participation in the music industry and my intention is to encourage artists from all walks of life to apply for this scheme. Making a real difference to people's lives really matters to me as I have experience of struggling on benefits etc. All of this together will raise the profile of Kick Arts UK, create new connections and put the business on a stronger footing, at the same time as keeping our inclusive, sustainable approach to doing business.

Some background

I first started managing artists in 2000, managing the rock band Reuben for the whole of their career to 2008, including sessions at Radio 1, Xfm and MTV2, major features in the rock press, tours with Biffy Clyro, Billy Talent, Sum 41 and mainstage slot at Download Festival. In addition to this I have been an independent promoter, tour manager, venue tech, art centre director and booking agent. Since launching Kick Arts UK I have managed 7 artists, negotiating record, publishing & brand deals, taking on pluggers, PR, lawyers and agents, with airplay on BBC Radio 1,2 & 3, 6Music, slots at BST Hyde Park, Reading & Leeds Festivals, Deer Shed, Celtic Connections, Cambridge Folk Festival, Sidmouth Folk Festival and support tours with This Is The Kit and Deaf Havana. Kick Arts UK has grown to be particularly well regarded in the UK folk scene, mentoring Amelia Coburn and Anna McLuckie for English Folk Expo, and being invited to various English festivals as well as Nordic Folk Alliance, ECMA conference in Canada and Showcase Scotland. In addition to management, my wide experience across the live music sector as a promoter, venue manager and booking agent give me an advantage in genres with a live music aspect. I also lectured in music business at The University for the Creative Arts for 4 years from 2019 - 2023 and worked for Music Venue Trust during the pandemic as a regional coordinator - helping to save all 96 venues under my care.