Class of 2025 - Music Managers Forum (MMF)

Allie Davies

Management: Chloe Slater, Fletchr Fletchr, chameleon, Anolah

Name:
Allie Davies

Role:
Management: Chloe Slater, Fletchr Fletchr, chameleon, Anolah

Bio:
Allie is a London-based manager with a background in A&R, tour management, events promotion and label management. Having previously worked at independent labels including One House Artists, Common Knowledge & Fair Youth, she has overseen campaigns for the likes of Newdad, Déyyess and Chloe Slater amongst others. Her tour management experience includes Newdad’s UK & Ireland arena support tour with Paolo Nutini, and many more. Allie’s management company is called Tiny Shell, and she currently represents Chloe Slater, Fletchr Fletchr, chameleon and Anolah. Chloe started the year with a 7 show sold out UK tour, and has just come back from supporting Alessi Rose on her UK+EU tour. She has over 20 festivals booked in Europe + UK this summer, and is about to start her debut album campaign. Fletchr Fletchr have just been confirmed to support Imagine Dragons at Tottenham Stadium in July and will start to release their debut EP having just partnered with a label. Chameleon has just moved to London so we are looking forward to developing his producer/writer career alongside his artist project. Anolah is in some great sessions at the moment, continuing to develop her sound and her live show for launch next year.

Cali McKinney

Management: Surusinghe, James Rand

Name:
Cali McKinney

Role:
Management: Surusinghe, James Rand

Bio:
Cali McKinney is a London based manager with a background in A&R and as a creative producer. Working at One House for 4 years, Cali worked with artists Surusinghe, Dan Shake, Eliza Rose, Mor Elian and Arushi Jain and oversaw release campaigns as an A&R for the One House label for artists such as Pretty Girl and Kevin Saunderson. Prior to One House Cali worked as a creative producer & A&R at Berlin-based label Majestic Casual on projects for Daniel Arsham, Nike, The Fader and more. In 2025 Cali co-founded 'charm artists' with manager Emily Hornbuckle where they manage Surusinghe & James Rand, with Shanti Celeste and Call Super completing the roster under Emily's side.

Dexter Batson

Management: ARXX, Ezra Williams, superserious

Name:
Dexter Batson

Role:
Management: ARXX, Ezra Williams, superserious

Bio:
Over the past 18 years, Dexter has worked on several sides of the music business, always striving to help good music become more popular. Starting out as a plugger in 2007, he has since spent 5 years in BBC Radio, including Music Team roles at Radio 1 and 6 Music, 4 years as a senior editor at Spotify, and he’s been running his own company Little Wonder since 2020. After initially launching as a radio plugging service, he added his first management client that autumn in Brighton powerpop duo ARXX. He continues to plug a curated roster, and has added two further management acts- Irish songwriter-producer Ezra Williams, and Icelandic indiepop quartet superserious.

Fabian Phipps

Management: Dove Ellis, Joe Chandler, Noah Baine

Name:
Fabian Phipps

Role:
Management: Dove Ellis, Joe Chandler, Noah Baine

Bio:
Fabian is a London-based artist manager with a background in live music, club and festival promotion, and label marketing. He spent five years at The Columbo Group, doing marketing for venues & festivals such as XOYO, The Jazz Cafe, Phonox, Camden Assembly & Eastern Electrics. He later joined independent label One House, leading campaigns for Eliza Rose’s UK #1 single “B.O.T.A. (Baddest of Them All)” and Avalon Emerson’s acclaimed debut album, & the Charm. In 2022, Fabian launched Intersect, a management company focused on developing alternative and electronic artists. His roster includes Irish alternative singer-songwriter Dove Ellis, known for his standout live performances and appearances at All Points East, The Great Escape, and End of the Road; Joe Chandler, an indie artist from Shropshire whose honest songwriting has earned him support slots with JAWS, Overpass, and The Pale White alongside performances at The Great Escape; and Italian electronic producer &DJ, Noah Baine, who’s sat on an arsenal of club-ready tunes and have already receiving co-signs from key tastemakers. With all three artists set for debut releases in 2025, Fabian is building careers with care, creativity, and long-term vision.

Helena Watmuff

Management: BODEGA, Child of Prague, HONESTY, The Orielles, Matt Peel, Sergio Maschetzko

Name:
Helena Watmuff

Role:
Management: BODEGA, Child of Prague, HONESTY, The Orielles, Matt Peel, Sergio Maschetzko

Bio:
Helena run’s Candy Artists, a music management company which represents BODEGA, Child of Prague, HONESTY, and The Orielles, as well as producers Matt Peel and Sergio Maschetzko. Working for the past 5 years to run both the company’s live booking agency, and management company, Candy is now an independent management business. Prior to this, she worked for 13 Artists, starting in finance before moving over to the bookings team, and has worked in multiple roles in the music industry including management assistant, distribution, finance, digital marketing, and live event production. Helena is also the Chair of the Board of Trustees for Artbox, a charity which support artists with disabilities, to create, exhibit and sell their artwork. Notable collaborations of the charity include LUSH Cosmetics, Adobe, and an commission by the Irish musical artist CMAT for the album artwork on ‘Crazymad, For Me’.

John Baccoli

Management: Basht., The Rolling People

Name:
John Baccoli

Role:
Management: Basht., The Rolling People

Bio:
John is a Nottingham-born, but now Manchester-based manager, with a strong background in concert promotion. Since putting on his own DIY shows at just 17, he has now become a multifaceted figure in the music industry. Currently also working as a promoter at Greyline, John has routed national tours, and helped curate lineups at tastemaker festivals including Dot To Dot and Beyond The Music. He has built a career committed to developing the best new rising talent from local to an international level, using strategy for live growth as a vital underlying factor. In 2022, he took his first step into management with Stockport-based indie-rock band, The Rolling People, and in 2024, John also began representing Dublin-based post-punk act, Basht. Now looking to further develop his skills as an independent manager, John says “The MMF has already supported me in so many ways, and now the Accelerator has given me the incredible opportunity to build my management business to the next level, and in turn help me provide the best support possible for my artists. I’m excited to meet & work with the other managers, and I'm incredibly proud to be involved.

John Forsyth

Management: Gallus, Spyres, Parliamo, Danko, Dictator, Mairi Sutherland

Name:
John Forsyth

Role:
Management: Gallus, Spyres, Parliamo, Danko, Dictator, Mairi Sutherland

Bio:
John is a Glasgow based manager with a background of working in the live music industry for more than 15 years. Having owned and operated independent live music venue, The Priory, he has a strong passion for nurturing and promoting especially at grassroots level. He has curated his own club nights and has ran festival stages as well as promoting his own events both in the UK and Europe. This led to him being asked to manage acts he worked closely with and has 7 plus years experience operating as a manager and forming Lockback Management. The roster is currently made up of Gallus, Spyres, Parliamo, Danko, Dictator and since leaving Parliamo, John is now helping develop Mairi Sutherlands solo career. The artists he represents have played internationally renowned festivals and showcases such as SXSW, The Great Escape, Iceland Airwaves, Country to Country, Primavera Sound,Sziget and Louis Tomlinsons’ Away From Home. John has a good knowledge of many European markets and was a guest speaker for SAMA and Pitch Scotland at Pro Weekender last year in Spain.

Katherine Melling

Management: piri & tommy, Ellie Dixon, Natalie Shay, Tom Vek

Name:
Katherine Melling

Role:
Management: piri & tommy, Ellie Dixon, Natalie Shay, Tom Vek

Bio:
Leaving behind a 15 year spell in the A&R dept. of Universal Music Publishing in 2015 Katherine started in management by supporting award-winning international songwriter Jin Jin across her Jinsing roster of artists, writers and producers. She then went on to work with Tav at East City as day-to-day manager for Mercury Music Prize winners and multi-billion streaming act alt-J. Having got a taste for the unpredictable and fascinating world of management she branched out to form her own company and currently manages influential garage rock artist Tom Vek, who celebrates the 20th anniversary of his cult-classic album We Have Sound this year, and, along with Sarah Lipman, also co-manages indie pop singer-songwriter Natalie Shay, viral drum n bass pop act piri&tommy and alt-pop writer-producer and medieval knight Ellie Dixon. Particularly well versed in music publishing, live events and label management Katherine loves how management combines so many aspects of the industry, and nothing beats seeing your artists thrive creatively.

Lei Jennings

Management: Dolly Rae, MARCEL, Apollo George

Name:
Lei Jennings

Role:
Management: Dolly Rae, MARCEL, Apollo George

Bio:
Lei Jennings is a Manchester-based manager renowned for his background as a multi-platinum selling songwriter and A&R consultant. He has collaborated with rock and roll hall of fame legends Duran Duran and has successfully overseen campaigns for artists such as platinum selling artist Alexandra Burke and Ivorian Doll. With a keen eye for talent, Lei has organised writing camps that unite some of the UK's most gifted songwriters and producers, fostering creativity to elevate projects to new heights. Lei founded Circle Talent in 2021. The company offers comprehensive management services tailored to a diverse roster of musicians, including songwriters, producers, artists, and DJs. The company currently look after singer songwriter Dolly Rae, producer and artist Apollo George and DJ & artist MARCEL. Lei is passionate about showcasing new and emerging talent from the Northwest. Circle Talent offers a personalised approach that cultivates a supportive, development environment. Helping artists to not only navigate the complexities of the music industry but also to establish themselves as significant players within it.

Lekan Latinwo

Management: ALT BLK ERA

Name:
Lekan Latinwo

Role:
Management: ALT BLK ERA

Bio:
Born in Bristol, Lekan Latinwo (Intricate Management) is the co-manager of ALT BLK ERA (MOBO Prize winners). Over the years he has previously managed and worked with artists like Speech Debelle (Mercury Prize winner) Deyah (Welsh Music Prize winner), Astroid Boys and Baby Queens. Lekan also has a background in curating and organising music events from working with ILUVLIVE in the 00's, music journalism and marketing from working with Sony Music's Street team in the late 90's and Mercury Records in the early 00's . Outside of management, Lekan is co-director of Tan Cerdd CIC in Wales.

Niyi Folarin

Management: Benjiflow, Naila, Mallo

Name:
Niyi Folarin

Role:
Management: Benjiflow, Naila, Mallo

Bio:
I am a songwriter/producer manager passionate about building artists’ careers and crafting timeless music. I currently manage Benjiflow, Naila, and Cracker Mallo — three incredible talents shaping the future of music. Benjiflow is a gifted multi-instrumentalist and artist, known for his rich musicality and genre-blending sound. His artistry brings a fresh and timeless quality to today's music scene. Cracker Mallo is a sought-after producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in afrobeats and beyond, including Fireboy DML, Amaarae, Tiwa Savage, and WSTRN. His innovative production style continues to break boundaries. Naila is a fast-rising songwriter, carving her path with a versatile pen that moves seamlessly across multiple genres. She is quickly becoming a force behind some of the most exciting new music today. Together, we’re committed to connecting creative visions with global audiences and pushing musical boundaries. My goal is always to nurture authentic talent and help build lasting legacies

Paul Samuel

Management: Mnelia, Nosa Apollo, Kellimarie Willis, Lilly Raye Music

Name:
Paul Samuel

Role:
Management: Mnelia, Nosa Apollo, Kellimarie Willis, Lilly Raye Music

Bio:
Paul is a dynamic and strategic manager dedicated to high quality representation and long term career development in the music industry. With a background as a producer and engineer, he has successfully transitioned into music management, where he champions a diverse roster of talent. His clients include MOBO Award-winning artist Mnelia, who has led campaigns with Nike and JD, performed at the Wireless Festival, and headlined shows in Sweden and the U.S. Paul also represents the innovative producer Nosa Apollo and the emerging songwriter Kelli Marie, both making significant strides in the music scene. Paul’s commitment to nurturing talent empowers each artist to explore their unique creative paths and ensures they are positioned for success. His strategic insight and passion for artistry enable his clients to thrive, fostering meaningful connections and opportunities that elevate their profiles in the industry.

Rachel Wingate

Management: Jamilah Barry, Carrie Baxter, Saffron

Name:
Rachel Wingate

Role:
Management: Jamilah Barry, Carrie Baxter, Saffron

Bio:
Rachel’s journey in music began at a DJ booking agency before later joining Borkowski, where she has spent the past 10 years honing her expertise in consumer, corporate, and crisis PR. Her work has spanned a broad variety of music clients: independent global musicians from countries including Sudan, Peru, and Palestine - to leading campaigns for major festivals such as Reading & Leeds, WOMAD and The Great Escape. She’s also worked on milestone campaigns such as the 100th edition of Now That’s What I Call Music. After years of working closely with managers, Rachel felt attracted to the pivotal role a manager plays with an artist, looking at the bigger picture and establishing a strategy. In 2020, under Two Tyger, she began managing British-Guinean singer-songwriter Jamilah Barry, who recently released her latest project, “Full Circle”. Uninhibited by genre, it features guest appearances from Ivor Novello award-winner, Yussef Dayes, and acclaimed poet, author, director, Caleb Femi. The release and European tour culminated in a sell-out London show at the ICA. More recently she has been working with Irish singer-songwriter Carrie Baxter, and Saffron, a producer and multi-instrumentalist. Rachel aims to help artists navigate the industry and work with them to make the best decisions to create long-lasting careers.

Rosie Watson

Management: The Big Day, Ryan Hunter

Name:
Rosie Watson

Role:
Management: The Big Day, Ryan Hunter

Bio:
Rosie Watson is an artist manager with a passion for building careers from the ground up. Since founding her own company, Different Creatures, Rosie has been dedicated to developing and supporting artists with a hands-on, long-term approach. She currently manages The Big Day, who recently toured Vietnam, and gifted songwriter Ryan Hunter. Rosie began her career in management in 2018 at Kingdom Management, where she assisted managers on day-to-day operations for artists including Lewis Capaldi, Aaron Smith, Walt Disco, and Lucia and The Best Boys. Alongside this, she independently managed Dead Pony for five years—supporting them from the earliest stages of their career through to playing major festivals such as Glastonbury. In addition to her work with Different Creatures, Rosie continues to assist at Kingdom, working day-to-day with songwriter and producer Rory James. She also holds the role of Senior Publisher at 23rd Precinct Music, where she supports emerging talent through a publishing lens, recently signing artists like Twin Atlantic. Having transitioned into the music industry from a background in graphic design, Rosie’s decision to make the shift was largely inspired by her connection with The Lapelles. She began her career in the industry at Wide Days music conference, where she further solidified her passion for the field.

Steph Van Spronsen

Management: BLACKGOLD, Henka, North Atlas, DeadWax

Name:
Steph Van Spronsen

Role:
Management: BLACKGOLD, Henka, North Atlas, DeadWax

Bio:
With a wealth of experience across multiple disciplines within the music industry, Steph Van Spronsen is a trusted name in the Rock/Metal world and has shifted her focus to use that knowledge to nurture and support emerging talent in the alternative music space. Previously having worked as a Promoter for Live Nation UK, talent booker for Download Festival and as a highly regarded publicist and radio plugger in the rock/metal world, she launched Baroness Music in 2020 to help underground artists navigate their careers in the height of the pandemic. Initially starting as a consultancy she launched the management side in 2022 with Masked Nu Metallers, BLACKGOLD (who landed a Limp Bizkit Arena tour as their first ever tour) and Scottish Pagan Rock group North Atlas, as well as partnering with Virgin Music Group for a label home for her roster. She has continued to build on her previous industry experience and honed new skills such as social media strategy, marketing, branding & DSP relations to maker her a great 'all rounder' as a manager and has picked up some new artists along the way including Alt Grime Punks, DeadWax and Portuguese Eurovision fan favourite, Henka.

Tracey Kasongo

Management: ShaSimone, Mica Sefia, Mya Craig, DONCH

Name:
Tracey Kasongo

Role:
Management: ShaSimone, Mica Sefia, Mya Craig, DONCH

Bio:
Tracey Kasongo is the founder & director of 20 Twenty MGMT, which offers a holistic approach to talent management. She is also the founder of music charity 20 Twenty Initiative, that aims to elevate the business acumen of creatives and help undiscovered talent get their foot in the door. 20 Twenty MGMT focuses on long-term, sustainable growth, prioritising mental wellbeing, authenticity, creative vision and business development. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all model, she works closely with each artist to develop a tailored path that aligns with their values, identity, and long-term vision. It's this balance of care, strategy, and creativity that defines her approach and drives meaningful results. Before founding 20 Twenty MGMT in 2023, she earned an MA in Music Business and spent two years working independently, later joining The Flight Club Management and then Closer Artists. There, she supported talents including P2J, Ari Pensmith, DameDame*, TSB, Calum Scott, The Stickmen Project, Ollie Green contributing to multiple UK Top 20 singles and Grammy and BRIT Award nominations. Her current roster includes indie artist ShaSimone, a 2024 Step Up Fund recipient powered by Amazon Music, as well as emerging talents Mica Sefia, Mya Craig, and renowned DJ Donch. Recognised for her contributions, Tracey is a Voting Academy member for the BRIT Awards 2025, a Soho Fellow at Soho House, and a member of the Music Managers Forum (MMF). Committed to social impact, she mentors through FishTank London and leads the 20 Twenty Initiative, a CIC dedicated to helping young people and adults break into the creative industries.

Tumisha Balogun

Management: AMBRR, 00ab

Name:
Tumisha Balogun

Role:
Management: AMBRR, 00ab

Bio:
Tumisha Balogun is the co-founder of Tag, a London-based creative agency and talent management company. With a strong foundation in the music industry, having worked at Atlantic Records and Onerpm distribution, Tumisha has played a pivotal role in supporting and nurturing various artists throughout her career. Her passion for marketing and storytelling led to the creation of her own agency, where she has successfully collaborated with major brands such as Google, Spotify, and Adidas on impactful campaigns. She has also worked on brand partnerships for rising stars like Rema, quickly discovering her knack for transforming artists into influential brand powerhouses. Although she initially stepped into music management by chance, Tumisha has since embraced the role wholeheartedly. She currently supports emerging talents AMBRR and 00ab on their journeys toward success. Under her guidance, AMBRR embarked on her first European tour, sharing stages with artists like Russ and A Boogie, and celebrated a milestone of over 100,000 YouTube views within a month. Likewise, Tumisha has been instrumental in 00ab’s early career, helping to secure playlist placements and a record deal. Driven by a passion for creativity and artist development, Tumisha continues to champion talent and connect music with meaningful brand opportunities.

Will Schreiber

Management: Finn Foxell, Betty, Casnova, Tommy Gold

Name:
Will Schreiber

Role:
Management: Finn Foxell, Betty, Casnova, Tommy Gold

Bio:
Will Schreiber is a London-based artist manager and founder of independent music company poptown. With a background in touring, campaign management, and artist development, he currently represents Finn Foxell, Betty, Tommy Gold, and Casnova - a diverse roster spanning rap, pop, and club/electronic music. Will began managing artists while studying Music Business at BIMM London, and has since grown poptown into a full-time operation focused on long-term career building and audience engagement. His management approach blends creative direction with strategic rollout planning, with a focus on cultivating dedicated fan communities around each artist. Inspired by both the 1,000 True Fans model and the cultural infrastructure of ultra groups, poptown emphasizes fan identity, direct-to-fan experiences, and sustainable, independent growth. Will’s work spans live strategy, content development, digital campaigns, and release management.

Accelerator Programme

The MMF and YouTube Music unveil Accelerator’s class of 2025

“Accelerator empowers the industry’s preeminent talent developers to do what they do best – develop talent.”

Full List of Participants