Suggestions
Vanessa Reed
President and CEO New Music USA
Professional Background
Vanessa Reed is a highly accomplished strategic leader in the music and creative industries, renowned for her innovative approach to developing programs aimed at enhancing support and growth opportunities for diverse artists and organizations. With a keen understanding of the intricate dynamics within the music sector, she has successfully designed and implemented pioneering national and international initiatives that address the unique challenges faced by underrepresented talent.
As the Founder and Honorary Chair of the Keychange program, Vanessa has been instrumental in promoting gender balance within the music industry. This award-winning initiative seeks to achieve a 50/50 gender balance across music festivals and events, encouraging the participation of women and non-binary individuals in the creative arts. Her efforts in this area have garnered extensive recognition and accolades, solidifying her position as a leading advocate for diversity in music.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Vanessa was awarded Music Week's Outstanding Contribution to Charity Award in 2018, representing PRS Foundation for its impactful work in fostering talent and promoting artistic expression. Additionally, she was acknowledged by BBC Woman's Hour as the third most powerful woman in the music industry, following global icons Beyoncé and Taylor Swift—a testament to her influence and dedication to advancing the representation of women in music.
Further accentuating her commitment to the arts, Vanessa received the prestigious Ivors Academy Gold Badge award in 2019, celebrating her significant impact on the music landscape in the UK.
Her professional journey includes prominent roles such as President and CEO at New Music USA, where she continues to lead efforts in promoting and supporting new music initiatives. Previously, Vanessa served as the Chief Executive at PRS Foundation, where she championed initiatives to enhance cultural expression and creativity across the UK. Additionally, she has contributed her expertise as a Senior Consultant at ABL cultural consulting, giving her further insight into the complexities of cultural governance and policy development.
Her career also includes pivotal roles such as Grants Manager at the European Cultural Foundation in Amsterdam, where she fostered cross-border cultural collaboration, and Promotions Manager at the British Music Information Centre, where she played a key role in disseminating vital information about the UK music industry.
Education and Achievements
Vanessa began her academic journey in music at Exeter College, where her passion for the arts flourished. She then pursued higher education at the University of Southampton, where she obtained a first-class BA Honours degree in French and Music, equipping her with a unique interdisciplinary perspective that has greatly contributed to her success in the creative industries.
In recognition of her exceptional skill set and dedication, Vanessa has been honored as a Fellow of Leeds College of Music, acknowledging her contributions to music education and the industry at large. She is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts, reflecting her commitment to promoting the arts and innovation.
Achievements
- Founder and Honorary Chair of Keychange: Vanessa launched and continues to lead this transformative initiative, which has received international acclaim for its success in promoting gender equality in music.
- Music Week’s Outstanding Contribution to Charity Award (2018): Awarded for her vital role in supporting charity initiatives through her work with PRS Foundation.
- BBC Woman’s Hour Recognition: Named the third most powerful woman in music in 2018, highlighting her influential role in the industry.
- Ivors Academy Gold Badge Award (2019): Recognized for her remarkable contributions to the UK music scene, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the creative arts.
- Fellowships: Honored as a Fellow by both Leeds College of Music and the Royal Society of the Arts, affirming her expertise and influence in the music and arts sector.
Vanessa Reed's career embodies a dedication not only to the music industry but also to the broader cultural landscape. Her leadership and commitment to equitable representation are making a significant difference in the music community and beyond. With a wealth of experience, an impressive array of accolades, and a continuous push for innovation, Vanessa stands out as a beacon of progress and inspiration in the creative industries.
