Creative Mentor Network, the charity working to break the class ceiling in the UK creative industries, is pleased to announce the appointment of their new Chair of Trustees, Louie St Claire.
Louie has been working in the creative and communications industry for 25 years, working mainly in the technology and media sectors. He has led and built multiple agencies as well as working in-house for the likes of Microsoft and O2. He is a passionate advocate for the industry and is committed to improving access for people from all backgrounds. Louie says:
“I am really excited to be joining Creative Mentor Network as its new Chair. I have long believed that a more equitable and inclusive creative industry leads to better work and therefore to better business, which can only be positive for everyone. By dismantling the barriers for young people who want to enter our industry from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, CMN is helping to break the class ceiling in the UK. It provides the kind of programmes I wish I’d had access to, highlighting jobs and careers I never knew existed. The work of CMN has become more vital than ever and I can’t wait to support the charity on its next stage of development.”
Louie is stepping into the role replacing previous Chair Russ Lidstone, who has served as Chair for six years. Russ says:
“It’s been an honour to work with my brilliant fellow trustees and the executive team at Creative Mentor Network as Chair for the last six years. A lot has been achieved as the charity continues to help young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds get exposure to, and opportunities in, the creative economy. I’m delighted that someone of Louie’s calibre is picking up the mantle at such an important time for CMN, young people in the UK, and the creative industries.”
Louie will be working alongside the Board of Trustees, and the Creative Mentor Network team. Katie Thomson-Greene, CEO, says:
“I’m thrilled to welcome Louie to our Board of Trustees. Seeing Louie’s passion and commitment to improving social diversity within the creative industries is fantastic. We know that CMN is needed now more than ever as we’re seeing class diversity & representation decrease within the industry so we’re excited for this next phase of the charity with Louie’s strategic experience and support.”
Also joining the charity as a trustee is Jessica Holland. Jessica is a tech leader specialising in transformation, change, and operations with experience across a variety of sectors. Most recently Jessica was the COO for Publicis Groupe Digital Experience and supported building various enterprise start-ups as well as pitching and securing large global clients. Jessica is also a long-time Trustee for the National House Project, contributing her leadership and strategic insights to support young people leaving care and building sustainable futures. Jessica says:
“The mission of Creative Mentor Network holds immense personal significance for me. I have experienced firsthand how mentorship and sponsorship can elevate confidence, enhance education, and advance a career. Due to personal and economic circumstances, I was unable to complete university; however, the support and guidance of mentors and sponsors were pivotal in helping me overcome challenges, gain invaluable experience, and ultimately achieve professional success. This is why I am deeply committed to the work CMN does, ensuring that others have access to the same transformative opportunities that made such a profound difference in my life.”
Last year marked Creative Mentor Network’s 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, they have supported over 2,000 young people working with companies like Amazon Prime Video, Soho House, Sony, and WeTransfer through their mentoring and training programmes. Their goal is to create more opportunities for access and development within the creative industries for young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Creative Mentor Network is also looking for a new Treasurer to join the charity as a trustee. If you are interested in this role, please visit their website here.
