What strikes me this year is how many structural changes are happening at the same time. Generational shifts, AI, geopolitical uncertainty, changing ownership models, evolving cultural values and growing expectations around transparency and sustainability are all changing the way the music industry works. I see these developments as closely connected rather than separate issues. They’re challenging the way our ecosystem functions. For us, the big question is: how do we navigate this transition and build what comes next?

I think of it as having a set of antennae spread across the industry. We’re in constant contact with our partners, editorial team and wider networks, and we stay connected with industry organisations and networks such as YOUROPE, EMEE, EMMA, ECSA and AIM. They each have their own perspective on the music sector and know where the challenges and opportunities lie. I also love visiting other conferences, meeting new people and discovering artists. You never know where a good conversation will lead and sometimes the most interesting insights come when you’re not really looking for them.

For me, it’s about looking a little further ahead. Of course, we want to discuss what’s happening in the industry right now, but we also want to explore what might matter two or three years from now. That means giving a platform to new ideas, emerging innovations and professionals who are shaping the future of the business,  including the people who might be the bosses of tomorrow. Our NEXT GEN programme is an important part of that: helping newer professionals find their feet and become part of the conversation from the start while bringing generations together to share knowledge and learn from each other. 

My advice is: prepare, but leave room for the unexpected. There’s a lot to choose from, so use the app to plan your must-see sessions and showcases, explore the delegate database and reach out to people you’d like to meet. And don’t forget to sign up for the speed meetings! But some of the best industry connections I’ve made weren’t on my schedule at all. They started with a laugh at the bar or a random conversation between sessions. So plan your days, but don’t plan every minute, you never know who you’ll end up talking to, or what might come out of it.

I think every booking, deal or new connection made at ESNS can be a success story. But one initiative I’m particularly proud of is our Mental Health Help Desk. Sometimes we all need a little help looking after our mental health, especially working in a fast-paced and demanding environment. For several years now, our amazing team of psychologists has offered delegates private one-to-one sessions during the conference.

I’m really proud that we’ve been able to make this a lasting part of ESNS. For me, a successful conference isn’t just about the business that happens or the connections people make. It’s also about taking care of the people behind the industry and creating an environment where they can thrive.