Frank Kimenai is a researcher and senior consultant at KEA, specializing in the music sector and broader cultural and creative industries, with expertise in sustainability, resilience and system transition. His work spans culture, economy, policy, and social domains, informed by his ecology background and 25 years in the creative sector. He views the creative industry as a complex ecosystem that requires systemic approaches.

Currently, Frank is pursuing a PhD at Erasmus University Rotterdam, focusing on the resilience of music ecosystems. His research explores systemic transitions and the role of grassroots initiatives in fostering fair, equitable, sustainable, and resilient futures for the music sector. He has collaborated with the European Commission on music policy and works with key European associations, including the Federation of Music Conferences, European Music Managers Association, and European Music Council. Nationally, he advises on innovation, international strategy, and artistic career development. Frank is a regular speaker, moderator, and curator at major conferences such as SXSW, ADE, ESNS, and Reeperbahn. Beyond his professional work, he hosts a country music radio show and is converting his family’s farmland into a forest.